Things to Do in Holmes County, Ohio
Ohio’s Amish Country is FULL of amazing places to explore, visit, and eat. Everyone has been asking me questions about this Amish area in Ohio and I wanted to give you a quick reference of all my personal favorites! Happy Ohio Road Tripping!
To help offset the costs of running Gleason Family Adventure, you’ll find affiliate links throughout the site. If you choose to purchase through one of these links, there’s no additional cost to you, but I’ll earn a small commission. You can read the entire legal disclosure on the full disclosure page.
Best things to do in Ohio’s Amish Country
1) Visit Behalt; While this is a different kind of attraction in Holmes County… you’ll learn so much at the cyclorama mural, called Behalt.
In the book, Midwest Road Trip Adventures, I say, “Don’t explore this area until you know more about the people and their culture.”
Behalt should be your first stop and you will be taken on a short 25-minute tour of anabaptist history with your Amish tour guide. Your guide will answer your questions and help you understand this simple lifestyle and the beautiful faith-filled people.
Their Mission:
- To accurately inform visitors about the faith, culture, and lifestyle of the Amish, Mennonite, and Hutterite peoples.
- To extend a warm welcome and hospitality to guests among us.
- To interpret the heritage of our people to both tourists and our own faith community.
- To invite visitors to meet the Christ of our culture, His uniqueness, and claim upon our lives and customs.
5798 County Road 77
Millersburg, Ohio 44654
Hours: Monday-Saturday
April-October: 9AM-5PM
November – March 9:30AM-4:30PM
**Closed Sunday**
#2 Visit Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery
Ok. I admit this is one of my favorite bakeries in Holmes County, Ohio. Every time I come to Amish Country the fry pies call me in…it just happens.
Ohio’s Amish country offers many unique experiences and moments; however, there is no other stop in Holmes County quite like Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery in Millersburg. You’ll find the farm situated right off State Route 557, one of Ohio’s most beautiful scenic by-ways.
Things you can do here:
- Feed the animals in the petting zoo.
- Take a buggy ride.
- Grab a snack to eat outside and enjoy the scenery
- Shop the antiques.
- Buy some leather products
- Stock up on Fry Pies and all the good stuff
5452 State Route 557
Millersburg, OH 44654
#3 Guggisberg Cheese 🧀 HOME OF THE ORIGINAL BABY SWISS
When you roll up on this cheese factory in Charm, Ohio, you are taken to Switzerland with the design and aura of the place. Our family has always enjoyed the taste of the cheese here and it is a stop you should not miss.
Guggisberg Cheese is located at:
5060 State Route 557
Millersburg, Ohio 44654
Phone: (330) 893-2500
#4 Hummingbird Hill Flower Farm
“If you love flowers, you will love visiting or hosting your next event at Hummingbird Hill Flower Farm. Hummingbird Hill Flower Farm was created out of a desire to plant hope and create joy for others. At the flower farm, you can enjoy a walk through the fields, purchase flowers and herbs to take home, host an event, attend a workshop, or bring a photographer to capture moments using the farms’ natural landscape, surrounded by flowers and beautiful views that will leave you in awe.” -Hummingbird Hill Flower Farm
- Most Instagramable spot in Amish Country
- Get the FULL flower experience
- Take a Workshop
- Plan a private event or photo session
#5 Drive the Amish Scenic Byway
If you have your own vehicle and enjoy rural views, I highly recommend spending some time doing some scenic drives through the country roads. Every mile of state and federal highway in Holmes County is designated as an Ohio Scenic Byway.
You might try this 106-mile “Amish Country Byway” drive which will take you past many of the main sights in Amish Country Ohio.
Just drive slowly and carefully as you’ll likely pass slow-moving horse-drawn buggies along the way!
#6 Farm at Walnut Creek
“A visit to the Farm at Walnut Creek in Sugarcreek gives you a unique behind-the-scenes look at farm life in Amish country. This working farm allows you to take a wagon tour of the land that is worked by a local Amish family and interact with some of the animals. You will see first-hand how the Amish plow the fields and operate the farm without electricity.”
You can also step inside an Amish home to see demonstrations on things like canning and quilting. The Farm at Walnut Creek has more than 500 animals on the farm, including some exotic animals like zebras, camels, emus, and kangaroos. You will also see many native Ohio animals like deer and sheep.
Farm at Walnut Creek Address: 4147 County Road 114, Sugarcreek, Ohio
Check the website for hours because these vary based on the season.
#7 Weavers Farm and Furniture
This sweet stop is one of my favorite places and especially on a Wednesday. Why Wednesday, you ask? Maybe it is because they serve 1 free pretzel per visitor! These homemade pretzels are the BEST! If you are feeling lunch-ish they have a wonderful menu of homemade sandwiches and sides. You can picnic nearby at the Bridge of Dreams or Honey Run Falls.
Family fun seekers can enjoy the free petting zoo and feed the chickens while mom shops for some new furniture.
#8 Hillcrest Orchard
The apples here can not be beaten! Evercrisp, Jonagold, Red Delicious, and more await you when you come to this hillside orchard with stunning views from the back deck.
Merle Hershberger family, has 75 acres of orchard on which 22 varieties of apples and 12 varieties of peach are grown.
Open Mid-July through March
During the fall months, you’ll find large displays of fall decorations, free samples of their signature fresh, sweet apple cider and a look-out deck from which you can experience a million-dollar view of the gorgeous Mud Valley
Monday to Saturday, 8am to 5pm
Closed Sunday.
Hillcrest Orchard Address: 2474 Township Rd 444, Sugarcreek, OH 44681
No website
#9 Leman’s Hardware Store … It’s Worth the Trip!
When planning your stop here, carve out at least 1-2 hours because you will want to explore every inch of this place! Lehman’s is known for homesteading and tools of yesteryear; however, you can find plenty of offerings that can be used in your everyday.
What you will find here:
- Hardware
- Health and wellness
- Home Decor
- Kitchen Tools (My favorite section)
- Cast Iron
- Kids section
Make sure you take time to see these special places inside the Kidron Store; The Museum of Light, featuring Aladdin Lamps, Cast Iron Cafe for a meal or snack, and the stunning hand-carved art room featuring the works of Paul Weaver.
“Lehman’s stands for a simpler life. Wherever you are on your journey to a simpler life, we can help you take the next steps.” Lehman’s Hardware Store
Looking for something to do in Amish Country? Check out the events page and book a class or seminar at Lemans … Official Events Tab
Lehman’s Store Flagship Location: 4779 Kidron Rd., Kidron, OH 44618
#10 MCC Thrift Store
MCC stands for Mennonite Central Committee and the work at these resale shops is to send money locally and globally to support relief, development, and peace. Their motto is “Where every purchase is a gift to the world.”
Usually, there are women here daily quilting and making things to send overseas. Visit with them and learn more about what drives these global thrift stores.
You can find all kinds of fun treasures in this shop.
4080 Kidron Rd, Dalton, OH 44618
#11 Wilderness Center
We love this hidden gem 💎 I am adding it to this list even though it is just outside the NE corner of Holmes County… it’s close enough!
“This 619-acre site has 10 miles of hiking trails with several connecting routes. On the trails, you can see old-growth forest, meadows, prairie, wetlands, Fox and Sugar Creeks, Wilderness Lake, and a pond. You can wander through nature for hours.” This is the truth too! We have spent countless hours here exploring the paths, viewing birds from inside the nature center, and shopping at their store.
If you love green spaces and the outdoors don’t miss this stop.
The Wilderness Center
9877 Alabama Ave.S.W.
Wilmot, Ohio 44689
330-359-5235
#12 Doughty Valley Steam Days
One of the events that come every year is the Doughty Valley Steam Days in Charm. Held in the summer on ST RT 557 this antique tractor show is hard to miss. Steam tractor lovers will be enthralled with the large display that gathers together.
What is a Steam Thresher? A threshing machine is a piece of farm equipment that threshes grain, that is, it removes the seeds from the stalks and husks. It does so by beating the plant to make the seeds fall out.
A few things to know:
Experience a live antique consignment auction
Watch the steam-powered sawmill
Live music
Experience the SPARK SHOW at dusk!
Learn more and get up-to-date information here: Doughty Valley Steam Days Facebook Page
#13 Eat in an Amish Home and Take a Back Road Tour
Troyer’s Amish Tours is on my bucket list! I am adding it to my top 25 since it is on my list of things to do in Amish Country for this year.
I look forward to 1.5-2 hour trip that will be guided by the owner Rich Troyer. He was raised here and knows all the in and outs of this quiet and rural community. I can’t wait to learn from a local.
Another amazing thing that this tour offers is that you can eat in a real Amish Home! There are lots of good places to eat here in Holmes County, but imagine being the personal guests of an Amish family with a home-cooked meal like no other set out before you in a home full of hospitality.
A few things to note about the in-home meals:
- The Amish Meal and Tour combo package can be booked with a group minimum of 8 people. For a private combo tour, the minimum of 8 people fee must be met.
- One week advance notice needed unless another availability is an option.
“Everyone’s got their reasons for visiting, so every tour I give is personalized to meet those reasons.” Rich Troyer, owner
#13 Authentic Amish Bakery … Miller’s Bakery (even the locals call it authentic!)
While staying at The Cabin at Scenic Hills we learned about this bakery from our Air B and B hosts. They said, “It’s like it always has been and has not changed. Get some of the tarts they are the best!”
We went early in the morning before the crowds. The sun was cresting over the hills and the morning fag was just starting to burn off as we found the old sign at the bottom of the road and veered off. As we got out of the car we could start to smell the baked good but when we open the door our senses were assailed with the deliciousness.
Put this on your MUST visit bakery list!
4250 Township Hwy 356, Millersburg, OH 44654
#14 Go Camping in Amish Country 🏕
Everyone stays in cabins, cottages, and hotels but camping here in Amish Country can’t be beat. The quiet serenity of this small section of Ohio is pretty unique and enjoying the sounds of horses clip clipping by your campsite is the best.
Situated off the main route but close to everything. Self-contained units only. This RV park caters to the 30+ crowd.
Located on the main route through Holmes County makes this campground great for location but a bit noisy for road traffic. (at this time of this writing we have not stayed here however we have driven through and checked it out. Very clean)
You will find these campsites in the North-East corner of the county and in one of the more quieter locations.
Extremely family-friendly, indoor pool, game room, and all the extras.
Whispering Hills Jellystone RV Park
30 minutes from the heart of Amish country but worth the drive. Great views of the surrounding countryside, pool, game room, huge store, and all the amenities for the family.
Timbercrest RV Park
Another off-the-beaten-path campground but offers everything you are looking for in camping. They have a shower house, laundry room, free wifi, playground, and nature trails. (at this time of this writing we have not stayed here, however we have driven through and it is very clean and well maintained)
#15 Eat with the Locals at Boyd and Wurthmann’s
Lovingly known as B and W’s this community staple has been around for as long as I can remember, since 1938 to be exact! The nostalgic feeling you get as you come through the doors is legit and they still have the counter with the green vinal stools ready for you.
- Grab some homemade pie
- Order a special
- Use the Amish Peanut Butter
Pro-Tip: Go when they open for breakfast to beat the crowd and do an early dinner so you don’t have to wait in the long line that goes out the door and down the sidewalk during peak dining hours.
Check the website for hours they change with the seasons! 4819 East Main Street, Berlin, OH 44610330-893-4000
#16 Spend the day at Shrock’s Heritage Village
If you are short on time in Amish Country, make sure to put this stop at the top of your list. You will find everything you want to experience in the area located in this complex!
What you will see here is the Berlin Antique and Craft Malls, Leather and Shoe, Berlin Pets, and Streb’s General Store all within walking distance of one another. If you want a snack or a place to eat Olde World Bistro is right on the property as well.
Just down the hill past the craft mall, you will come to The Amish Country Theater! This side-splitting variety act will have you rolling on the floor. Believe me, if you know anything about this area you KNOW there is nothing to do after 5 pm…this theater will have your evening covered. Check out the promotional video to see what I mean YouTube Video Link
If you have not found a place to stay they have you covered too! Shrock’s Guest House is perfect for a secluded family getaway or the Berlin Encore Hotel and Suites.
Last but certainly not least is Tis’ the Season, Ohio’s largest and best year around Christmas Store! When I need a little Christmas in July, this is where I come.
Shrock’s Heritage Village location: 4363 State Route 39Berlin, OH 44610 Shrock’s Heritage Village Official website
#17 Mel’s Amish Buggy Ride … Ride in a Real Amish Buggy!’
Located in the heart of Berlin, Ohio, you’ll find Mel’s Amish Buggy Rides. He doesn’t have a building or anything special like that. You give him a call, and he will meet you to give you a ride through the town of Berlin.
If you’re looking for a buggy ride on a farm or out in the country, you can check out Hershberger’s Farm or Yoder’s Amish Home.
Mel doesn’t have a website…He is Amish. You just call and set up your ride.
#18 Stay for the night or a week! Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Amish Country.
Romantic, unique, and delightful!
One of our favorites and we loved each suite we have stayed in.
4 Bedroom home with beautiful views sleeps 10
2 minutes from Berlin, Ohio with gorgeous views and plenty of room!
Quaint and off the beaten path, yet close to it all.
Holiday Inn Express Millersburg
Brand new and super clean, located on the outskirts of Millersburg
One of our personal favorites and is the photo highlighted in this section. We enjoy evenings by the firepit, relaxing on the deck, and the perfect space for our family.
#19 Housewares 77 … A true Amish Country Store
Since my kids were little, they have wanted to stop here to get a kitschy little toy from this unique Amish store. Like most Amish stores, it is plain and simple, yet inside you find all kinds of neat little things for your home and family.
Looking for a family game to play after 5 pm at your cabin? Grab Dutch Blitz here for a rowdy time of fun. How about that small needed kitchen item? They have all kinds of unique finds.
For me, I just love walking in and hearing the sound of the gas lights, the open hospitality, and the enjoyment I find browsing the things that these simple people use every day.
Housewares 77 address: 6346 Co Rd 77, Millersburg, OH 44654
#20 Eat ALL the ice cream!
You can find some wonderful ice cream places in Ohio’s Amish Country! We have a few stops that we try to go to as often as possible.
Millersburg, OH 44654
#21 Experience The Der Dutchman at Walnut Creek and Carlise Inn
While many places can draw you, let this stop make your shortlist.
We really really enjoy the buffet at “The Der” and have been coming here…forever.
Funny story; My mom has a picture of me about 12 years old standing by a horse and buggy with my arms crossed and my little brother sticking out his tongue…even with “family moments” like that this location is one of my favorites.
The Carlise Inn is one of the most scenic places to stay. On the one side of the hotel, your balcony faces the road where you have views of the Amish in the mornings and evenings and on the valley side you get the lovely sights of the countryside. Your choice!
Pro-Tip: **Best scenic view of Holmes County is from the Der Dutchman parking lot**
#22 Mohican State Park and Loudonville
On the west side of Holmes County, you will find Mohican State Park, one of Ohio’s premier state parks, and the historic town of Loudonville. If you want to do some hiking or canoeing, this stop is for YOU. Many people call this area the canoeing capital of Ohio. We would have to agree with that.
- Mohican State Park
- Canoe Liveries
- Places to Eat
- Boat rentals
- Cleo Redd Museum
- Mohican Tree Houses
- Mohican State Park Lodge 15% off with code GLEASON
If your the outdoor adventure seeker, check out this area on one of your days in Amish Country.
#23 Best Places to Eat in Amish Country
Why do many people come to Amish Country? TO EAT! Can I get a yes and amen to that!!! I come here to eat too. I look forward to biting into that crunchy chicken or that tasty pie. Mmmm Hmmm! Here are a few of our favorite places to eat.
- Best chicken in Holmes County!
- I’m selfish and didn’t want to write about this place because it is so dang good, and I don’t want it to be any busier than it already is. HOWEVER, I am sharing, and it is worth the wait.
- Best sandwiches and Jamcain Me Crazy coffee is so good
- Real mashed potatoes and homemade bread are the best!
- Fine dining in Holmes County! It was pricy but OH SO WORTH IT! I can’t wait to go back sometime in the future. <3 #re-bucketlisted
#23 Winesburg Meats
If you don’t know about it you can’t go…after this blog post, you now know about Winesburg Meats. We stumbled into this little shop years ago while camping at Amish Country Campsites. Our reason for stopping was because we wanted something to grill at the campsite, but we found so much more.
Family-owned and operated business since 1959. We have been making quality products ever since. The equipment and technology may have changed over our three generations but many of the recipes are still very close to our founder’s originals. Still no artificial preservatives, soy, gluten-free, or fillers, and all that other junk that is in most other products out there on the marketplace.
Our family likes the no-fillers all-beef hot dogs. When you bite into these hot dogs the casing crunches, the deliciousness bursts through, and your mouth comes alive with happiness. Another gleason favorite is the beef jerky…YUM!
Pro-Tip: When you come to Holmes County bring a cooler so you can take home some of the wonderful products you find here.
#24 Enjoy Wine Tasting at the Wineries
Enjoy an evening at a winery in Holmes County. Since everything closes around 5 PM you might enjoy having a glass of wine at one of the local wineries or take a bottle back to your lodging.
Silver Moon Winery
Founded in 2004 this winery in Dover is a perfect stop to browse their 40 different wines.
9 am-6 pm
4915 Old State Route 39 Northwest, Dover, OH 44622
Breitenbach Winery
This winery has been on my list to visit for a long time, and I suspect I will find myself there on our next visit. Offering beautiful views, live music, and a quaint atmosphere I think it will be the perfect place to have a glass.
5934 Old Route 39 Northwest,
Dover, Ohio 44622
M-Sa 9 am-6 pm
Baltic Mill Winery
Located in a turn-of-the-century flour mill the owners, Dan and Judy Garver, have turned this into a delightful tasting room. We stopped here and bought a bottle of seasonal wine 🍷
111 East Main Street
Baltic, Ohio 43804
M-Sa 12 PM- 7 PM
Ugly Bunny Winery
In the summer the Ugly Bunny has Sippin’ Saturday nights where they have live music and great wine. If you’re looking for an evening activity they have you covered!
16104 OH-39
Loudonville, OH 44842
Wed-Sat 1 PM-9PM
French Ridge Vineyards
I have not been here but as I did my research I fell in love! Location: ✅ Wine ✅ Cabin in the vineyard ✅ Unique dining opportunities ✅ #bucketlisted We look forward to staying here and updating this section in the future!
2586 Township Road 34
Killbuck, Ohio 44637
Tue – Thur 12:00 PM – 7 PM
Fri-Sa 12:00 PM – 9 PM
Sunny Slope Winery
The Sunny Slope General Store has served Big Prairie, Ohio since 1927 and the Bright family has operated it since 1978. This wine stop is perfect for you to enjoy a snack and a glass of delicious wine.
12251 OH-39
Big Prairie, OH 44611
Mon-Thur 11 PM TO 7 PM
Fri-Sat 11 PM TO 9 PM
#25 Ashery Country Store
You can find other Amish-style grocery stores throughout the countryside but the Ashery Country Store is one of my favorites. While it has grown since I was a little girl, they have kept its simple charm.
You will find bulk foods, deli meats, cheese & more – fresh to your kitchen at this store in the middle of the county. It’s fun to shop and explore to decide what you want to take home and use!
Read more about their story and how they got their name here. Ashery Story
8922 SR 241
Fredericksburg, OH 44627
330.359.5615
Monday – Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday: Closed
25 Things to Do in Holmes County is not enough to share because I have so much more I could say and write about!!!
However, if you have read this far you KNOW I love this part of Ohio. We have been visiting here for over 30 years and it never gets old AND we are always finding something new to do here.
Do you have questions about Amish Country? You can contact me here and I will do my best to answer your questions.
Happy Amish Country Backroads,
Brandy
Pin for LATER!
Amish Country Scenic Byway Routes are covered on pages 244-250. Order your copy today!
