15 Must-Visit Amish Towns in Pennsylvania That Feel Frozen in Time
When it comes to a journey through time, nowhere compares with the communities of the Amish in Pennsylvania. With its rustic, down-to-earth beauty and age-old customs, these communities give a visitor a glimpse at a less frenzied pace of life.
Discover Lancaster states that as of 2023, there were about 61 Amish settlements in Pennsylvania, with the largest being in Lancaster County.
With horse and buggy, homemade goods, and panoramic rural beauty, it’s not difficult to believe that you have traveled through a doorway in time. Here are 15 must-visit Amish towns in Pennsylvania that feel frozen in time.
Lancaster
As the heart of Amish Country, Lancaster draws thousands of visitors every year for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque farmland. Home to over 43,000 Amish residents—the largest Amish population in the U.S.—this town beautifully blends tradition with modern tourism.
You’ll find bustling farmers’ markets offering fresh produce, handmade quilts, and savory shoofly pies. Visit the Amish Farm and House for an immersive experience of the daily life of Amish families, or take a horse-and-buggy ride to explore Lancaster’s serene countryside.
Bird-in-Hand
With a population of just over 400, Bird-in-Hand may be small, but it offers a big dose of charm and history. Known for its annual Bird-in-Hand Half Marathon and the Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, this quaint town is a hotspot for homemade baked goods and locally crafted furniture.
Statistics show that nearly 20% of Lancaster County’s tourists make a stop in Bird-in-Hand, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience authentic Amish culture. For a unique experience, catch a live performance at the Bird-in-Hand Stage.
Intercourse
Yes, the name draws curiosity, but Intercourse is one of the most popular Amish towns for its history and hospitality. This town, with a population of around 1,300, is known for its craft shops and art galleries, including the famous Kitchen Kettle Village.
Here, you can watch local artisans create everything from jams and jellies to quilts and leather goods. Intercourse was once named Cross Keys, reflecting its strategic location as a crossroads town.
Strasburg
History buffs will fall in love with Strasburg, especially if you’re a train enthusiast. Home to the Strasburg Rail Road—the oldest continuously operating railroad in the country—this town takes you on a scenic journey through Lancaster County’s farmland in restored 19th-century steam trains.
The World Population Review reports that Strasburg’s population is declining at an annual rate of -0.23% and has decreased by -0.84% since the most recent census.
Strasburg also hosts the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, where visitors can explore over 100 historic locomotives and cars. This makes this town a mix of Amish culture and transportation history.
New Holland
Known for its agricultural roots, New Holland is a quieter town where visitors can connect with the local farming community. The town holds its annual New Holland Farmers Fair, a beloved event that has been running for over 80 years. As of July 2023, Holland’s population was 5,748, according to the United States Census Bureau.
New Holland is also famous for its farm equipment—New Holland Agriculture, a global brand, traces its origins back to this small town. Plan your visit around the fall to experience the lively New Holland Farmers Fair.
Paradise
Ironically named, Paradise lives up to its name with its peaceful landscapes and charming countryside. It’s home to the National Christmas Center, a family-friendly museum dedicated to Christmas history and traditions. Pennsylvania Demographics by Cubit projects Paradise’s population to reach 5,684 in 2025.
Paradise is also a great place to take scenic drives through the rolling farmland, where you’ll spot Amish families working the fields and roadside stands selling fresh produce. Nature lovers can also enjoy scenic drives along Route 30, where picturesque farmland stretches as far as the eye can see.
Lititz
Voted “America’s Coolest Small Town” in 2013 by Budget Travel, Lititz is known for its vibrant downtown and unique blend of Amish and modern culture. Visitors can tour the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, the oldest commercial pretzel bakery in the U.S., or enjoy a stroll through Lititz Springs Park.
The World Population Review reports that Lititz had a population of 9,819 as of 2024.
Lititz has a thriving artisan community, with numerous shops selling handmade soaps, candles, and crafts. Lititz Springs Park serves as the town’s centerpiece, hosting festivals and community events throughout the year.
Ephrata
Ephrata stands out for its historic roots in early American religious communities. The Ephrata Cloister, a National Historic Landmark, offers a fascinating glimpse into 18th-century communal living. The town is also known for its thriving arts scene and local theaters, making it a cultural hub in Lancaster County.
The Ephrata Performing Arts Center puts on impressive productions year-round, attracting theater enthusiasts from across the state. For a taste of local flavors, visitors can explore the Green Dragon Farmers Market, one of the largest in the country. It is open every Friday and features fresh produce, baked goods, and hand-crafted items.
Ronks
If you’re looking for a truly immersive Amish experience, Ronks is the place to be. Many of the town’s businesses offer authentic buggy rides and farm tours, giving visitors a firsthand look at Amish life. The town is also home to the American Music Theatre, where you can catch live performances ranging from Broadway-style shows to country music concerts.
The World Population Review reports that Ronks has a population of 204 in 2024. If you’re a fan of rail history, the nearby Choo Choo Barn showcases an impressive 1,700-square-foot model train layout depicting scenes from Lancaster County life.
East Earl
East Earl is a hidden gem in Lancaster County, known for its peaceful setting and warm hospitality. It’s home to Shady Maple Smorgasbord, the largest buffet in the U.S., where guests can enjoy a true taste of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. East Earl’s charming countryside is perfect for scenic drives and photography.
The World Population Review reports that East Earl, Pennsylvania, has a population of 1,144 as of 2024. East Earl is also a popular destination for antique hunters. The Country Home Furnishings and nearby Amish markets offer handmade furniture, crafts, and quilts that reflect the region’s heritage.
Blue Ball
Despite its small size, Blue Ball offers a rich history tied to its location as a major crossroads in early Pennsylvania. The town gets its name from the Blue Ball Hotel, a historic tavern that served travelers in the 1700s.
Today, Blue Ball is a peaceful stop for visitors exploring the nearby Amish markets and quilt shops. Its central location makes it easy to visit neighboring towns like East Earl and New Holland, offering access to some of Lancaster County’s best-kept secrets.
Mount Joy
Mount Joy offers a mix of Amish culture and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for families. The town is home to the Bube’s Brewery, a historic 19th-century brewery that offers underground dining experiences.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the town’s parks and green spaces, including Little Chiques Park. Here, you can enjoy walking trails and picnics along the Chiques Creek.
Gordonville
Gordonville is best known for its annual Mud Sale, a fundraising auction held every spring featuring everything from handmade quilts to farm equipment. The town is a quiet retreat for those looking to explore the backroads of Lancaster County and witness authentic Amish life without the crowds of more tourist-heavy towns.
The town is also home to several Amish-owned businesses, where you can purchase fresh-baked goods, hand-woven baskets, and homemade jams. For visitors seeking a deeper connection with the Amish lifestyle, Old Windmill Farm offers interactive farm tours and educational experiences.
Gap
Gap is another historic town with strong Amish roots. Its name comes from its location at a mountain gap, which provided a natural passageway for early settlers. Gap is home to the White Chimneys, a 300-year-old historic estate that offers guided tours and serves as a stunning wedding venue.
Gap is also a great base for exploring nearby covered bridges and scenic byways. Don’t miss the local farm stands for fresh produce and homemade pies.
Kinzers
Rounding out our list is Kinzers, a quaint town that offers a glimpse into the Amish lifestyle with its surrounding farms and quiet streets. Kinzers is home to the Rough and Tumble Engineers Historical Association, a museum dedicated to vintage farm equipment and steam engines. Each summer, the museum hosts a popular event featuring live demonstrations of antique machinery in action.
Kinzers is also an ideal spot for photographers, with its scenic backroads and picture-perfect farmland. The town’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place to wind down after exploring the more tourist-heavy spots in Amish Country.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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