Stepping into Ohio’s Amish Country, a sprawling region encompassing Holmes, Wayne, and Tuscarawas counties, is like stepping off a bullet train and onto a gentle buggy track. As the largest settlement of its kind in the world, this is a destination that demands a slower pace. It’s not just a geographic change; it’s a sensory shift, where the aroma of cinnamon rolls and hickory smoke replaces car exhaust, and the dominant sound is the rhythmic clatter of hooves on asphalt.
A day trip here isn’t just a scenic drive; it’s an educational and exceptionally tasty journey through a living tradition. If you’re planning the perfect family day, one that captures the essence of this unique culture while keeping the kids utterly enchanted, this is how you do it.
Your Perfect Day Itinerary
9:30 AM: Kickstart with Authenticity in Berlin
Your journey begins in Berlin, the energetic, traditional hub of Amish Country. Start at Hershberger’s Truck Patch, which is so much more than a produce stand. It’s a bustling farmers market, a bakery, and most importantly, a petting zoo. For a minimal fee, you and the kids can wander among goats (many perched on their signature wooden bridges), ponies, and even exotic farm animals. The “Goat Coaster” (a multi-level ramp where goats eagerly traverse for feed) is an immediate hit.
“My kids usually hate markets, but they lovedHershberger’s,” shared Sarah L. on TripAdvisor. “The petting zoo is fantastic, and the baked goods are insane. We bought two dozen cinnamon rolls and they didn’t even make it home!”
Favorite Items: Before you leave, you must visit the bakery counter. The undisputed favorite is their signature Cinnamon Rolls. They are the size of a dinner plate, impossibly soft, and swirled with a generous amount of spice. Ask for one “warmed up.” Trust me. Also, look for their fresh Apple Butter, which is made over an open kettle.
11:00 AM: A Lesson in Slow Living
From Hershberger’s, it’s a quick 10-minute drive to Amish Country Viewing. While you can see buggies and farms everywhere, for a structured experience, visit Schrock’s Heritage Village. Here, you can take a guided buggy ride, tour an authentic Amish home, and learn about the faith and daily life from knowledgeable guides. It’s a gentle, respectful look at the culture that defines this region.
1:00 PM: The Main Event – Lunch
Drive into the historic heart of Walnut Creek for lunch. There are many options, but the Der Dutchman Restaurant and Bakery is a classic. It’s a massive, efficient establishment that manages to maintain a home-cooked feel. They specialize in “Amish-style” comfort food.
Favorite Items: The most popular items are the Chicken and Noodles over Mashed Potatoes, which is exactly as hearty as it sounds. The absolute must-try item, however, is their Pie. They offer a staggering array of options, from traditional Shoofly Pie (a rich molasses and crumb dessert) to deep-dish apple and seasonal favorites.
“You have to try the pie,” says Yelp reviewer Mike S. “I’m not a big molasses fan, but the Shoofly pie at Der Dutchman is in a different league. It’s dark, rich, and somehow not overly sweet. A piece with coffee is the perfect afternoon treat.”
2:30 PM: Markets and a Sweet Stop
Your day trip cannot conclude without exploring the markets. Just outside of Walnut Creek is Heini’s Cheese Chalet. This isn’t just a shop; it’s an interactive cheese museum and tasting experience. The entire perimeter is lined with sampling stations featuring over 100 varieties of cheese made on-site. The “Lacy Baby Swiss” and “Ghost Pepper Cheese” (if you dare) are favorites.
Favorite Items: The samples are the favorite, but be sure to look for their Chocolate Cheese Fudge in the back. It’s a creamy, rich dessert made with cheese that defies expectation.
Finish your food tour by heading back through Berlin to Coblentz Chocolate Company. This is a higher-end artisanal chocolate shop that is a beautiful visual experience itself. Watching the “chocolate waterfall” in the viewing window is a peaceful way to unwind.
Favorite Items: The top choice is their Buckeyes. They elevate the Ohio staple with dark chocolate shells and a creamy, peanut butter center that is perfected through traditional techniques.
5:00 PM: Scenic Drive and Homeward Bound
As the sun dips low, take a final, leisurely drive. Take Route 62 from Berlin towards Millersburg. This stretch of road, winding through the rolling, patchworked fields, is arguably the most beautiful in the county, often featured in calendars and films. Take your time, pull over for photos, and savor the quiet grace of a truly unique place before heading home.
Farm Fun and Animal Encounters
Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery
Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery
- Features a sprawling petting zoo with friendly farm animals and a unique “Goat Coaster.”
- Known for massive, oven-warm cinnamon rolls and homemade apple butter.
Cultural Exploration
Schrock’s Heritage Village
Schrock’s Heritage Village
- Offers guided buggy rides that provide a classic Amish Country experience.
- Includes a tour of an authentic Amish home to learn about local history and customs.
Hearty Amish Dining
Der Dutchman
Specializes in traditional “Amish-style” meals like chicken and noodles served over real mashed potatoes.
- Boasts an incredible bakery with a massive selection of pies, including the famous Shoofly pie.
Savory and Sweet Markets
Heini’s Cheese Chalet
- Provides samples of over 100 varieties of locally made cheese, including their popular Lacy Baby Swiss.
- Features unique items like chocolate cheese fudge.
- Features a viewing window where kids can watch the “chocolate waterfall” and the candy-making process.
- Renowned for their Buckeyes, a classic Ohio treat made with rich peanu