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Look for the Windmill! Inside Ronks, PA’s Most Famous Pie Bakery

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Bakery

A Slice of Lancaster History: Why Dutch Haven Must Be on Your PA Dutch Itinerary

If you are planning a trip to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, your itinerary is likely already packed with buggy rides, smorgasbords, and scenic farmland tours. But there is one iconic stop along Route 30 that you absolutely cannot miss if you want to experience the true, sweet taste of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Look for the spinning windmill. That is the universal sign that you have arrived at Dutch Haven Shoo-Fly Pie Bakery, a Lancaster County landmark that has been serving up sweet memories and sticky smiles since 1946. Known as the place that made Shoo-Fly Pie famous across America, this quirky, charming bakery and gift shop is a mandatory stop for anyone visiting the area.

The Details

  • Name: Dutch Haven Shoo-Fly Pie Bakery
  • Address: 2857A Lincoln Hwy E, Ronks, PA 17572

The Experience & Favorite Items

The moment you walk through the doors of Dutch Haven, you are greeted with two things: the incredible aroma of molasses and brown sugar, and a complimentary, warm sample of their famous Shoo-Fly Pie topped with a dollop of whipped cream. It is the perfect introduction to the region’s most famous dessert.

If you are browsing the aisles, here are the absolute must-buy items:

  • The Original Shoo-Fly Pie: This is what put them on the map. It is a gooey, rich, molasses-bottom pie with a sweet crumb topping. Buy one to eat in your hotel room, and another to take home.
  • Whoopie Pies: Soft, cake-like cookies sandwiched around a massive layer of sweet, fluffy cream filling. They offer classic chocolate, alongside seasonal and specialty flavors.
  • Locally Made Root Beer: Dutch Haven carries a fantastic selection of traditional, Pennsylvania Dutch root beers and birch beers that pair perfectly with their sweet treats.
  • Amish Crafts & Souvenirs: Beyond the bakery, the building is packed with local jams, jellies, apple butter, handmade Amish crafts, and quirky Lancaster souvenirs to commemorate your trip.
Original Shoo-Fly Pie:

Bring the Tradition Home

If you take a pie home and realize you can’t live without it, don’t worry! You can recreate this Lancaster classic in your own kitchen. Our friends over at Visit The Amish have a fantastic, authentic shoo-fly pie recipe that will help you bring the flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch country right to your own dining room table.

What Real Visitors Are Saying

Dutch Haven’s reputation precedes it, and the reviews from travelers show exactly why it remains a Route 30 staple:

“You can’t drive through Ronks without stopping at the windmill! As soon as you walk in, they hand you a warm piece of shoo-fly pie with whipped cream. It literally melts in your mouth. We ended up buying three pies to take back to New York with us.” — Google Reviewer, Michelle T.

“This place is a Lancaster classic. It’s wonderfully nostalgic. The gift shop has something for everyone, and their whoopie pies are some of the best I’ve had in the area. A perfect tourist stop.” — TripAdvisor Reviewer, David L.

“If you want to know what real PA Dutch shoo-fly pie tastes like, this is the only place to go. It has that perfect gooey bottom and crumbly top. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming.” — Yelp Reviewer, Sarah J.

If you are cruising down the Lincoln Highway, keep your eyes peeled for the windmill. A warm slice of Lancaster tradition is waiting for you!

Inside the Sweet Secret of Authentic Amish Shoofly Pie

From Petting Zoos to Antiques: The Ultimate Family Guide to Schrock’s Heritage Village

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Market

Step Into Ohio’s Amish Country: A Tourist’s Guide to Schrock’s Heritage Village

If you are planning a trip to Holmes County, Ohio—the heart of the world’s largest Amish settlement—you might be wondering where to start. With rolling hills, endless backroads, and countless shops scattered across the countryside, it can be a bit overwhelming to plan your itinerary.

Fortunately, there is a perfect starting point that offers a fantastic cross-section of the Amish Country experience all in one convenient spot. Located just a stone’s throw from the bustling tourist hub of Berlin, Schrock’s Heritage Village provides a wonderful blend of history, shopping, and family-friendly entertainment. Whether you are looking to take a traditional buggy ride, pet farm animals, or get lost in a winter wonderland in the middle of July, this village has something for everyone.

The Details

  • Name: Schrock’s Heritage Village
  • Address: 4363 State Route 39, Millersburg, OH 44654 (Located between Berlin and Millersburg)

Favorite Attractions: What Not to Miss

Schrock’s Heritage Village isn’t just one store; it is a sprawling complex of interconnected shops and experiences. Here are the absolute must-do activities when you visit:

  • Authentic Amish Buggy Rides: For many visitors, this is the highlight of the trip. You can take a scenic, leisurely ride through the surrounding farmland in a traditional Amish buggy, driven by a knowledgeable local who can answer your questions about the culture and the area.
  • ‘Tis the Season Christmas Shoppe: This is Ohio’s largest year-round Christmas store. It is a massive, multi-level building that will take your breath away. It features dozens of themed trees, thousands of ornaments, and a unique 1950s-style town square.
  • The Amish Farm and Home Tour: If you want to learn about the history and daily life of the Plain people, you can tour an authentic, traditional Amish home. It’s an eye-opening educational experience that showcases living without modern electricity or plumbing.
  • The Petting Pasture: A massive hit with the kids! Grab a cup of feed and get up close with a variety of friendly farm animals, from goats and sheep to alpacas.
  • Starlight Antiques and Local Crafts: Spend an hour getting lost in the antique mall, which is packed with vintage finds, local crafts, handmade leather goods, and unique home decor.
pie

What Visitors Are Saying

Don’t just take our word for it! Schrock’s Heritage Village has been a staple of Ohio tourism for years. Here is what recent visitors have had to say about their experience:

“Tis the Season is absolutely breathtaking! We spent two hours just walking through the different rooms. Afterward, we took a buggy ride which was so peaceful. The driver was wonderful and told us all about the local farms. A must-stop in Berlin!” > — Sarah M., TripAdvisor

“Perfect place to stop with the family. The kids loved feeding the goats at the petting pasture, and my wife found some incredible vintage dishes in the antique shop. We made a whole afternoon out of it.” > — David R., Google Reviews

shrocks

“If you want an authentic feel of Amish country without having to drive all over the county, this is the place. The tour of the Amish home was very educational and gave us a lot of respect for their way of life.” > — Emily T., Yelp

If you are heading to Holmes County, make sure to carve out a few hours for Schrock’s Heritage Village. It’s a beautifully maintained, welcoming snapshot of the simple life.

Schrock's Heritage Village.

Pies, Pretzels, and Scrapple: Inside Gilbertsville’s New Massive Amish Heritage Market

Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

Heartland Traditions Comes to Route 100: Gilbertsville Heritage Market Now Open

GILBERTSVILLE, PA — The distinctive clatter of horse-drawn buggies might not yet be a daily sound on Route 100, but a massive slice of Lancaster County culture has officially arrived in Montgomery County. Gilbertsville Heritage Market, a sprawling new indoor Amish and Mennonite farmers market, celebrated its grand opening this morning, drawing hundreds of eager shoppers seeking the legendary freshness and hearty comfort of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.

Situated in a newly constructed, timber-framed building that smells enticingly of fresh pine and cinnamon, the market bridges the gap between suburban Gilbertsville and the rural simplicity of Plain sect life. It operates weekly, offering a comprehensive shopping experience focused on scratch-made foods, natural produce, and rustic craftsmanship.

“It is wonderful to see such a warm welcome from the Gilbertsville community,” said Levi Beiler, a representative for the market. “We wanted to create a place where families can get real, natural food made the traditional way, without the preservatives you find in the chain stores. Everything here is about family, tradition, and quality.”

A Taste of Tradition: Favorite Items

The market is neatly divided into several distinct stands, each owned and operated by different families. While the options are overwhelming, early shoppers already seem to be converging on a few clear standouts that are destined to become local legends.

The Deli Counter, which features products from renowned Lancaster County brands alongside homemade staples, is a major draw. Early bestsellers include Amish Trail Bologna, domestic Swiss cheese, and, for the true traditionalist, fresh PA Dutch Scrapple. Many families are taking advantage of the custom-cut butcher service, praising the minimality processed meats.

However, the heartbeat of the market is undeniably the Heritage Bakery. Every morning before the doors open, massive ovens churn out fluffy breads, sticky buns, and their star attraction: Gourmet Glazed Donuts. These are not your average chain donuts; they are yeast-raised, massive, hand-dipped, and known to sell out by noon. You can also snag whole Shoofly Pies (wet bottom, of course) and chocolate Whoopie Pies with dynamic filling.

Other mandatory stops include the King’s Pretzel Stand, where authentic, hand-twisted soft pretzels are baked directly in front of customers and brushed with melted butter, and Esh’s Bulk Foods, a home baker’s dream filled with barrels of specialty flours, grains, spices, and nostalgia-inducing candy.

amish pies
amish pie

What Early Shoppers are Saying

The community buzz surrounding the opening has been electric, and the feedback from the first customers suggests that Gilbertsville Heritage Market is meeting, or even exceeding, the high expectations set by other well-known Pennsylvania Dutch markets. Early quotes reflect a deep appreciation for the authenticity of the experience.

“Taste just like my grandmother’s. I came specifically for the shoofly pie and a glazed donut, and I have not been disappointed. The pies are still warm, and the crust is flaky perfection. Processed food just can’t compare with this homemade quality.” — Sarah Jenkins, Boyertown resident

“The prices in the bulk food section are phenomenal. We got enough custom-blended spices to last us six months for a fraction of what we would have paid at the supermarket. The trail bologna is amazing.” — Michael Roth, early customer

“This is a masterpiece. I got a roast pork sandwich with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone from the hot food stand, and it rivals anything you’d get in Philadelphia. The fact that I can also get my chicken and vegetableschemical free makes this a game-changer for my family.” — Emily Davis, early customer

Gilbertsville Heritage Market is located at 1850 Route 100, Gilbertsville, PA 19525. It operates three days a week:

  • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • CLOSED Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

Keep in mind that while some of the Mennonite-owned vendors accept credit cards, many of the smaller, Amish-owned craft stalls are cash-only operations. It is recommended to bring both forms of payment to fully experience everything the market has to offer.

Amish Country Comes to Hwy 280: Inside Birmingham’s Newest General Store

Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

Heartland Traditions Comes to Magic City: A New Amish-Mennonite General Store Opens in Birmingham

The distinct clatter of a horse-drawn buggy might not be a common sound on the busy streets of Birmingham, but the smell of warm cinnamon rolls and the sight of handcrafted oak furniture have officially arrived. Heartland Traditions, a new Amish-Mennonite general store, has opened its doors in the Magic City, promising an authentic slice of rural simplicity and old-world quality right in the heart of Alabama.

Located conveniently at 4501 Hwy 280, Birmingham, AL 35242, Heartland Traditions bridges the gap between modern city life and the hearty traditions of Ohio and Pennsylvania’s Plain communities. The store is housed in a spacious building that feels like a step back in time, stocked from floor to ceiling with items made by hand, grown from the soil, or sourced in bulk. It is not just a shop; it’s a sensory experience designed to celebrate a slower pace of life.

From the Bakery to the Bedroom: What’s Inside

While the furniture and craft sections are impressive, early visitors seem to be gravitating towards the culinary offerings. The general store is thoughtfully organized into several distinct departments, each showcasing legendary Amish and Mennonite craftsmanship and agricultural expertise.

The Bakery: This section is the soul of Heartland Traditions. Early rises are rewarded with the aroma of fresh-baked goods made without preservatives. You have to arrive early if you want to snag their famous Cinnamon Rolls—they are exceptionally large, fluffy, and covered in a thick layer of homemade cream cheese frosting that melts into every swirl. Other mandatory orders include traditional Shoofly Pie, a deep-dish molasses crumb cake that is perfect with a cup of coffee, and soft, chocolatey Whoopie Pies.

Bulk Pantry Staples: The market area is a home cook’s dream, featuring large bins of bulk spices, baking supplies, grains, and hard-to-find ingredients at a fraction of grocery store prices. You can stock up on specialty flours, whole black peppercorns, raw honey, and pure maple syrup, alongside a colorful array of bulk candies for the kids.

Jarred Provisions: No general store visit is complete without browsing the “put up” goods. Heartland Traditions offers a robust assortment of homemade jams, jellies, apple butter, and traditional relishes. A local favorite is the “hoppin’” version of F.R.O.G. jam (Fig, Raspberry, Orange, and Ginger) and traditional Chow-Chow, a pickled vegetable relish that is a staple Southern condiment adapting Plain traditions.

Handcrafted Furniture: The front of the store features beautiful hardwood furniture made to last generations. From incredibly durable poly-lumber outdoor gliders to intricate hand-stitched quilts, the craftsmanship is legendary. You can also order custom solid oak dining sets and heirloom bedroom suites.

heartland bakery

Community Buzz and Local Praise

The response from Birmingham residents has been overwhelming, with crowds filling the parking lot since the grand opening. Early reviews reflect the city’s enthusiasm for this unique cultural infusion.

“I’ve always loved visiting Amish communities in Holmes County, but it’s a full day trip,” said Hoover resident, Sarah Jenkins. “Having a place right here Hwy 280 where I can get that same quality, especially the bakery items, is a absolute game-changer for my family.”

Even seasoned Southern home cooks are finding something to love.

“The prices in the bulk spice section are phenomenal,” said David Croft, who travels from Vestavia for his supplies. “I can’t believe the variety and the quality of the jarred goods. Their pickled chow-chow is just like my grandmother used to make, but I don’t have to do the canning!”

If You Go

Heartland Traditions General Store is located at 4501 Hwy 280, Birmingham, AL 35242. The hours of operation are designed to align with traditional Plain community standards: Thursday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The store is strictly closed on Sundays to honor tradition. Keep in mind that while some of the Mennonite-owned vendors accept credit cards, many of the smaller craft stalls are cash-only operations.

Amish Country Comes to Licking County: Inside the New Horns Hill Road Market

Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

Heartland Traditions Come to Licking County: The Licking Valley Amish Market Opens in Newark

NEWARK, OH — The distinctive clatter of horse-drawn buggies might not be a common sound on the streets of Newark, but a taste of Ohio’s rich Amish and Mennonite heritage has officially arrived. The Licking Valley Amish Market celebrated its grand opening this week, bringing traditional craftsmanship, hearty foods, and a slower pace of commerce to the heart of Licking County.

Located just minutes from downtown Newark at 1450 Horns Hill Road, the new market aims to bridge the gap between the busy, modern life of the Columbus suburbs and the rural traditions of Ohio’s Plain communities in Holmes and Knox counties. The market is housed in a newly constructed, timber-framed building that smells enticingly of fresh pine and cinnamon.

According to Sarah Miller, one of the market’s coordinators, the goal is to provide a central hub for multiple families to sell their wares. “It can be difficult for folks to travel deep into Amish country regularly,” Miller said. “We wanted to bring that quality and simplicity closer to the people of Newark and surrounding areas.”

Authenticity You Can Taste

While the furniture and craft sections are impressive, early visitors seem to be gravitating toward the food. The market offers a wide array of bulk pantry staples, deli meats and cheeses, and, perhaps most notably, a bakery section that begins churning out fresh goods before sunrise.

The Deli Counter is stocked with Walnut Creek meats and cheeses, including the signature domestic Swiss and traditional trail bologna. These are complemented by a robust selection of Pennsylvania Dutch staples like pickled red beet eggs, chow-chow relishes, and small-batch apple butter.

A Full-Service Shopping Experience

The Licking Valley Amish Market is more than just a place to grab lunch. The space is thoughtfully divided into several distinct departments:

  • The Pantry: This area is a baker’s dream, featuring large bins of specialty flours, grains, spices in bulk, and difficult-to-find ingredients, all offered at a fraction of grocery store prices.
  • Produce: While seasonal, the market prides itself on non-GMO, often pesticide-free produce grown using traditional methods. The current summer selection includes heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, and giant heads of cabbage.
  • Crafts and Home Goods: From incredibly durable poly-lumber outdoor furniture to intricate hand-stitched quilts, the craftsmanship on display is legendary. The market also features beautiful hardwood dining sets that can be ordered and customized.
donuts
Amish Glazed Donuts

Community Buzz

The response from Licking County residents has been overwhelming, with crowds filling the parking lot on opening day. Real-world feedback from early shoppers reflects the enthusiasm for the new venture.

“I’ve always loved visiting Berlin and Sugarcreek, but it’s a full day trip,” said Newark resident Sarah Jenkins. “Having a place right here Horns Hill Road where I can get that same quality, especially the bakery items, is a absolute game-changer for my family.”

Even seasoned home cooks are finding something to love. “The prices in the bulk section are phenomenal,” said David Croft, who travels from Pataskala for his supplies. “I can’t believe the variety of spices and the quality of the deli meats. Their smoked turkey is a hidden gem.”

Local business owners are also showing support. “It is wonderful to see this kind of investment in our community,” said John Reynolds. “It adds a different flavor to Newark’s retail scene, and I think it will bring people into our area who might not otherwise visit.”

If You Go

The Licking Valley Amish Market is located at 1450 Horns Hill Road, Newark, OH 43055.

The hours of operation are designed to align with traditional Plain community standards:

  • Thursday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Sunday – Wednesday: Closed

Keep in mind that while many of the Mennonite-owned vendors at the market do accept credit cards, some of the smaller, Amish-owned craft stalls are cash-only operations.

amish market

Wait, There’s Amish Country in Maryland? Inside St. Mary’s Best Kept Secret

Written by Dennis Regling in Maryland Amish

Slower Paces and Hidden Treasures: The Ultimate Maryland Amish Country Day Trip

While many people flock to Lancaster, Pennsylvania for a taste of the Plain life, a vibrant, thriving, and authentically “daughter” settlement is tucked away in the scenic farmlands of Southern Maryland. A day trip to St. Mary’s County offers a more peaceful, intimate experience than its famous Pennsylvania counterpart, where you can drive backroads, purchase impeccable handicrafts, and taste legendary baked goods—all while dodging the heavy tourist crowds.

Centered primarily around the towns of Mechanicsville and Charlotte Hall, the St. Mary’s Amish community was founded in 1940 by families looking to preserve their traditional ways. Today, it is a bustling community of over 1,000 people across eight church districts. Farms dotted with tobacco and corn line the lanes, and the distinctive Lancaster-grey buggies—often looking slightly “squatter” with small back windows—are a common sight.

Here is how to plan the perfect day trip back in time.

savoring the flavor: legendary baked goods

Finding a massive, sit-down “Amish Restaurant” in rural St. Mary’s County can be a challenge; the community’s focus is on home and farm. However, their contribution to the Maryland culinary scene is legendary, particularly through bakeries and farmers’ markets. Your first priority must be to seek out their baked goods.

Favorite Items: The undisputed champions are the freshly baked donuts. They are yeast-rising, massive, light as a feather, and glazed to perfection. You must also try a traditional Shoofly Pie, a deep-dish molasses crumb cake, or Whoopie Pies—soft chocolate cake discs with a fluffy marshmallow filling.

Amish-Whoopie-Pies
Amish-Whoopie-Pies

shopping the bounty: farm markets & master craftsmanship

Amish commerce in St. Mary’s is incredibly diverse, ranging from small roadside stands to large furniture showrooms. These are family-run operations where quality and durability are non-negotiable.

The Barns at New Market

This is a must-stop central hub. While not entirely Amish-run, it features many Amish vendors, especially on Saturdays. It’s a perfect microcosm of the county’s agriculture and crafts.

  • Address: 29133 Thompson Corner Rd, Mechanicsville, MD 20659
  • Favorite Items: Stock up on Walnut Creek meats and cheeses, specialty grains in bulk, hand-dipped candles, and seasonal, non-GMO produce.

Roadside Discoveries & Master Crafts

For the truest experience, drive the back roads (like Route 236) and look for simple, hand-painted signs at farm entrances. These are the hearts of local business.

  • Quilt Shop: You can find masterfully hand-stitched quilts that represent hundreds of hours of labor.
    • Address: 27744 Thompson Corner Rd, Mechanicsville, MD 20659
  • Loveville Leather: For incredible, durable leather harnesses, belts, and tack.
    • Address: 40625 Parsons Mill Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650

seeing the sights: scenic drives and auctions

Sightseeing here is a peaceful endeavor, best enjoyed through the window of a car moving at a respectful pace.

Scenic Backroads

The primary pastime is simply driving the “back loop.” Head out along Route 236 (Thompson’s Corner Road) and peel off onto Parsons Mill Road or Busy Corner Road. Be prepared to share the lane with horse-drawn buggies and farming equipment. You’ll pass beautifully maintained farmhouses, one-room schoolhouses, and lush fields.

  • Tip: Remember to be respectful. It is against Amish religious beliefs to be photographed, so please do not take pictures of people, their homes, or schoolhouses without explicit permission.

Loveville Produce Auction

If your trip falls on a Monday (11 a.m.), Wednesday, or Friday (9 a.m.), you must visit the produce auction. It is a spectacle of commerce, where wholesale buyers and locals bid on massive quantities of farm-fresh fruit and vegetables. It’s loud, fast-paced, and fascinating.

  • Address: 40454 Bishop Road, Loveville, MD 20656

what people are saying: real reviews

The draw of Maryland’s Amish country is its quiet authenticity, a sentiment echoed by those who make the journey.

“We stopped on a whim while driving downGA-236 and it was the best decision of the trip. The soft glaze donut was a revelation. The staff were so friendly, and the whole environment is wonderfully calm.”

— Review from traveler Sarah T.

“Having a place right here St. Mary’s where I can get that same quality furniture I used to travel to Pennsylvania for is a absolute game-changer for my family. My dining room table from them is a masterpiece.”

— Review from Google user Mark T.

“Loveville Leather has the best belts and leather tack. It isn’t a tourist trap; it is a real working shop where you see the craft happening right in front of you.”

— TripAdvisor user Michael R.

Wait, There’s Amish Country in Maryland? Inside St. Mary’s Best Kept Secret