Handcrafted and Home-Cooked: 5 Authentic Amish Country Stops in Delaware
While Delaware may be famous for its pristine Atlantic beaches and rich colonial history, the First State also plays host to a deeply rooted horse-and-buggy heritage. Nestled primarily in Kent and Sussex counties, a handful of highly authentic, family-run Amish and Mennonite markets, country stores, and multi-vendor bazaars offer visitors an unforgettable window into traditional craftsmanship and simple, scratch-cooked foods.
Whether you are looking to restock a baking pantry, pick up a stunning piece of outdoor furniture, or dig into a classic farmhouse breakfast, these five real-world Delaware destinations deliver unbeatable quality.
1. Byler’s Country Store (Dover)
Located in the scenic, rolling countryside of West Dover, this sprawling destination is an absolute staple of the local community. Operating as a classic, massive country market, it seamlessly combines an old-world mercantile with discounted groceries, custom housewares, and a cozy casual cafe atmosphere.
- Favorite Items: Overstuffed sub sandwiches from the deli counter, small-batch seasonal soy candles, and their incredibly dense, scratch-baked blueberry lemon bread.
- Address: 1368 Rose Valley School Rd, Dover, DE 19904
2. Spence’s Bazaar & Amish Farmers Market (Dover)
Established in 1933 as a local livestock auction, this beloved central Delaware landmark has evolved into a fascinating, one-of-a-kind weekly hybrid destination. Part outdoor flea market, part historic indoor auction house, and part authentic Amish food hall, it offers a vibrant, bustling environment every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday.
- Favorite Items: Warm, hand-pulled Amish soft pretzels, fresh-from-the-fryer glazed donuts, and thick, griddled slices of classic local scrapple.
- Address: 550 S. New St, Dover, DE 19904
3. Dutch Country Farmers Market (Middletown)
Serving northern and central Delaware shoppers at the Middletown Square Shopping Mall, this lively indoor market brings the complete multi-merchant farmhouse experience under one roof. Open Thursday through Saturday, it gathers numerous individual family-owned stalls specializing in peak-season produce, fresh-cut heritage meats, and home-style hot meals.
- Favorite Items: Handcrafted outdoor wooden garden structures, custom-spiced deli cheese wheels, and rich, family-style dinners from the on-site restaurant.
- Address: 701 N Broad St, Middletown, DE 19709 (Middletown Square Shopping Mall)
4. Dutch Country Market (Laurel)
For those traveling down the Sussex Highway toward the southern beaches, this market makes for the ultimate country pit stop. It offers travelers a tranquil, incredibly welcoming rest area equipped with ample cafe seating, rows of hard-to-find dry pantry essentials, and an exceptional scratch-bakery case.
- Favorite Items: Thick-cut custom deli sandwiches, premium bulk baking supplies, and hot, fresh-brewed farmhouse coffee.
- Address: 11233 Trussum Pond Rd, Laurel, DE 19956
5. Sharon Hill Greenhouse (Dover)
Tucked away in the peaceful country lanes of western Kent County, this seasonal nursery and garden market is run entirely by members of the local community. It serves as a beautiful, tranquil destination for home gardeners looking for exceptionally hearty, naturally raised plantings and rugged country accents.
- Favorite Items: Vibrant, hanging floral baskets, robust vegetable starter plants, and heavy-duty, hand-assembled wooden patio planters.
- Address: 1377 Sharon Hill Rd, Dover, DE 19904