Things to Do in Ohio's Amish Country
Amish communities are peppered throughout Ohio, and visitors are drawn to these areas for many reasons. Trumbull County in Northeast Ohio has the fourth largest Amish community in the United States and offers all the things that the larger communities provide. The Amish and Mennonites have a long history of solid faith, quality craftsmanship, and plenty of good food to go around. You’ll find their beliefs and culture define what they do.
What draws visitors to immerse themselves in Ohio’s Amish communities? I believe it is the simple lifestyle, the commitment to their faith, and the welcomed feeling when you come into town
Discover Amish Country Lodging
If you are here for the old-world charm and want to give yourself a real treat, book the Old Stone House Bed & Breakfast or Peter Allen Inn to leave the distractions behind.
I love how historic the 1825 sandstone home at Old Stone House Bed & Breakfast is. They offer short and long-term housing options for maximum flexibility, including rental of the whole property to ensure your group's privacy. This is your sign to book a cozy bed and breakfast experience!
I fell in love with the Peter Allen Inn and their Federal Neoclassical architecture. I was in awe that this stunning structure was built in 1821 when this area was still known as the Ohio Western Reserve territory. Dr. Peter Allen commissioned this to be built by Willis Smith from Connecticut, and it was considered one of his crown jewel accomplishments. In 2010, Richard Thompson set out to save and restore this home for future generations to appreciate.
At the Peter Allen Inn, you must book in advance. There are three uniquely decorated rooms, and they can book up fast. Each one has a king-size bed and private bathrooms. You’ll want to cozy up with the glow of the fireplace as you tuck in for your night's stay.
Pro-tip: The Peter Allen Inn has an award-winning kitchen and offers some of the best farm-to-table local dishes in Northeast Ohio. Reservations are highly recommended.
Visit the Oldest General Store in Ohio
Since 1840, the End of The Commons General Store has continuously served the local community.
Located in the heart of this booming Amish town, the store provides everything the area needs for everyday living. There are quite a few reasons to visit this unique stop, and the #1 reason for me is the Amish fry pies. I don’t know what makes them so delicious, but it is always leaves me wanting more. And if my temptation of baked goods is not enough to get you in the door, the bulk food section and curated old-style gifts should do the trick.
Pro-tip: Come hungry at lunch, have a meal at the Common’s Cafe and grab some delicious ice cream before heading out on the back roads.
Embrace Amish Culture by Eating in an Amish Home
Experience dinner in an Amish Home at Pies & Thighs Amish Home Cooking. There is nothing more satisfying than a home-cooked meal served by hospitable hosts. You’ll be tantalized with fresh local ingredients that have been transformed into something you will never forget.
Pies and Thighs is a "by reservation only," dining experience (minimum charges will apply). It features family style, traditional Amish recipes. We started off with a seven-layer salad. Soft bread, jam, and butter on the side. The main course included chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and peas. For dessert we had a selection of pies to choose from, blueberry, cherry, and custard pie. It felt like Thanksgiving!
Discover Amish Tours: Walking Tour of Mesopotamia
You will want to carve out time to explore the historic town of Mesopotamia and delve into the rich history. Stroll through this quaint town, part of the National Register of Historic Places and check out the historic homes and buildings.
Make sure to see the Lyman House circa 1833, built by Elias Lyman. After returning to the area after the Civil War. His son Captain Carlos Lyman extensively renovated the home. Visit the two cemeteries located in town, and the Civil War Monument in the center of the commons should not be missed. Click here for directions.
Pro-tip: Look for the stone trough in town; it was once spring-fed.
Drive the Country Roads of Mesopotamia
In Mesopotamia Amish Country you must get out, explore the back roads, and find these hidden gem shops. If you explore well enough, you’ll spot these shops, sometimes varying with season. Look for handmade signs that offer things like honey, baked goods, maple syrup, and homemade quilts or crafts.
Travel to Geauga County
Middlefield, Ohio, is a stop you should not miss while exploring. Like any Amish community, it sprawls over county lines, and you might find yourself in Geauga County during your road trip. Nature’s Lovers Nest is a birders haven, Heritage Marketplace has something for everyone you’re traveling with, and if you love cheese, make sure to visit Middlefield Cheese Co-op, where you can watch cheese being made and buy a hunk.
Pro-tip: Mary Yoder’s Amish Kitchen is a local favorite with fantastic home-style cooking; they are known for their fried chicken and baked goods.
Cap off the Night with a Glass of Wine
After a day exploring the countryside, take some time to unwind at Greene Eagle Winery, Hartford Hill Winery or Country Porch Winery.
If you have not stuffed yourself full from your Amish backroad tour, grab a cheese tray to go with whatever you choose to imbibe on. To keep things lively, they have named their wines to accompany your personality. You might find yourself a Quirky, Resilient, Optimist on your visit! I recommend you try all the wines on the list with the sampler; and I found that I enjoyed all of them and even realized I liked one that I would not have tried if I had not gone the sampler route.
Pro-tip: Hartford Hill Winery is open year-round with live music on the weekends.
Trumbull County is a perfect place to check out the Amish and surrounding area. Since this community is not the largest, you don’t feel overwhelmed trying to get it all in. You can leisurely make your way through the area and feel accomplished when you finish the day.