Your Amish Country Day Trip at a Glance
Escape the city buzz and step into a world of rolling hills, horse-drawn buggies, and heartfelt hospitality. This quick guide provides all the essential information you need for a perfect day trip from Cleveland to the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country in 2025.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Cleveland | Approx. 65 miles (105 km) one-way |
| Drive Time | 1.5 to 2 hours one-way |
| Estimated Day Trip Cost | $75 – $150 per person (Gas, Food, Attractions) |
| Best Day to Visit | Tuesday – Thursday (to avoid crowds); Monday – Saturday (for openings) |
| Best Season to Visit | Fall (Sept-Oct) for foliage; Late Spring (May-June) for pleasant weather |
How to Get from Cleveland to Amish Country
The journey to Amish Country is part of the charm, as the urban landscape gives way to scenic farmland. Driving is the only practical way to explore this beautiful region, offering the freedom to discover hidden gems along winding country roads.
Driving Directions & Transportation Options
The most direct route is a straight shot down I-77 South from Cleveland. In about 90 minutes, you’ll find yourself in Berlin, the commercial heart of Holmes County. A personal car is non-negotiable for this trip, as public transport is unavailable and the area’s attractions are spread out.
| Transportation | Feasibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Car | Highly Recommended | The only way to have the flexibility to access all sites and explore at your own pace. |
| Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) | Not Recommended | Very expensive for the distance; you will not find service for a return trip from the rural areas. |
| Public Transportation | Not an Option | There are no direct bus or train routes from Cleveland to Holmes County. |
Sharing the Road: A Guide to Buggy Safety
One of the unique aspects of visiting Amish Country is sharing the road with horse-drawn buggies. These are not just tourist attractions; they are the primary mode of transportation for many residents. Drive with patience and respect by following these essential safety tips:
- Always look for the reflective orange “slow-moving vehicle” triangle on the back of buggies.
- Slow down immediately as soon as you spot a buggy. They travel at a much slower speed than cars.
- Pass only when it is completely safe and legal, giving them a very wide berth. The horse can be unpredictable.
- Be extra vigilant for sudden turns into unmarked farm lanes or driveways.
- Never honk your horn aggressively. This can frighten the horse and cause an accident. A light, friendly tap from a distance is acceptable if absolutely necessary.
Top 5 Must-See Attractions in Amish Country
While the real magic is in the journey, these five destinations offer incredible insight and enjoyment, giving your 2025 day trip a perfect structure.
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Behalt Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center
Start your trip here to gain a deep appreciation for the culture you’re about to experience. Behalt features a breathtaking 265-foot circular mural, known as a cyclorama, that vividly depicts the history of the Amish and Mennonite people from their origins in Zurich to the present day.
Details: 5798 County Road 77, Berlin, OH 44610. Cost: ~$15 per adult for the full tour.
Pro Tip: Absolutely take the guided tour of the mural. The passionate guides bring the history to life with stories and details you’d otherwise miss.
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The Farm at Walnut Creek
A delight for all ages, The Farm offers a unique chance to get up close with over 500 animals from around the world. Take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the rolling hills and feed giraffes, zebras, bison, and more right from your hands.
Details: 4147 County Road 114, Sugarcreek, OH 44681. Cost: ~$22-$25 per adult.
Pro Tip: Buy at least one extra bucket of feed pellets at the entrance. The animals are very friendly, and your first bucket will disappear faster than you think!
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Guggisberg Cheese Factory
Home of the original Baby Swiss! This is a must-visit for any food lover. Peer through large viewing windows to see master cheesemakers crafting award-winning cheese, then head to the shop to enjoy a wide variety of free samples.
Details: 5060 State Route 557, Millersburg, OH 44654. Cost: Free to view and sample.
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday morning (Mon-Fri, before noon) for the best chance to see the full cheese-making process in action.
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Explore the Shops in Berlin
Berlin is the bustling heart of Amish Country, packed with charming shops. Here you’ll find everything from handcrafted oak and cherry furniture to intricate quilts, handmade crafts, and bustling food markets filled with local goods. Don’t miss the Berlin Village Antique Mall or Schrock’s Heritage Village.
Details: Main Street, Berlin, OH 44610.
Pro Tip: Find a central parking spot and explore Main Street on foot. It’s the best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems.
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Lehman’s Hardware in Kidron
Prepare to be amazed. Lehman’s is a legendary, sprawling store dedicated to non-electric, practical goods. It’s a fascinating portal into a simpler time, with aisles of wood-burning stoves, hand-cranked tools, oil lamps, and homesteading supplies. It’s part store, part museum.
Details: 4779 Kidron Rd, Kidron, OH 44636. Cost: Free to browse.
Pro Tip: Give yourself at least an hour here. The store is a labyrinth of fascinating finds and is much, much larger than it appears from the outside.
A Perfect One-Day Amish Country Itinerary from Cleveland
Want a foolproof plan for your day? Follow this step-by-step 2025 itinerary to hit all the highlights without feeling rushed.
- 8:00 AM – Depart from Cleveland: Grab your coffee and hit I-77 South. Enjoy the scenic drive as the city gives way to beautiful, rolling countryside.
- 9:30 AM – Arrive & Start with Culture: Your first stop is the Behalt Heritage Center in Berlin. The 30-minute guided tour provides essential context for the rest of your day.
- 11:00 AM – Cheese & Country Roads: Make the short, scenic drive to Guggisberg Cheese Factory. Watch the cheesemakers, enjoy some samples, and buy some famous Baby Swiss to take home.
- 12:30 PM – Authentic Amish Lunch: Head into Berlin and put your name on the list at Boyd & Wurthmann Restaurant. It’s a classic diner experience with delicious, hearty Amish cooking.
- 2:00 PM – Shop & Explore Berlin: After lunch, spend the afternoon leisurely exploring the shops along Main Street. Browse for handcrafted furniture, quilts, baked goods, and local jams.
- 4:00 PM – A Sweet Treat & Final Stop: No trip is complete without a famous Amish “fry pie.” Grab one for the road and, if you see one, stop at a small, family-run roadside stand for fresh produce or baked goods.
- 5:30 PM – Head Back to Cleveland: Begin your drive back north, filled with delicious food and lasting memories, arriving back in Cleveland around 7:00 PM.
Where to Eat: Authentic Amish Cooking
Come hungry! The food in Amish Country is hearty, homemade, and delicious. Here are a few can’t-miss spots:
Der Dutchman (Walnut Creek)
Famous for its massive family-style meals and buffets featuring fried chicken, roast beef, and dozens of sides and desserts. Go for the food, but stay for the incredible panoramic views of the valley from their dining room. Price: $$ ($15-30)
Boyd & Wurthmann Restaurant (Berlin)
A true local institution since 1938. This cozy, no-frills diner is where you’ll find locals and visitors alike enjoying classic comfort food. Don’t leave without trying a slice of their homemade pie! Price: $$ ($15-30)
Guggisberg’s Chalet in the Valley (Sugarcreek)
For something a little different, this restaurant offers a unique Swiss-Amish fusion. Enjoy delicious fondue, schnitzel, and other Alpine dishes in a charming chalet setting. Price: $$-$$$ ($20-35+)
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for 2025
Make your trip seamless and respectful with these essential tips from those in the know.
- Sundays are a day of rest. This is the most critical rule. Nearly all Amish-owned businesses, including shops, restaurants, and attractions, are CLOSED on Sundays for worship and family time. Plan your trip for Monday through Saturday.
- Respectful photography is key. The Amish faith prohibits posing for photos (“graven images”). Do not take pictures of Amish people’s faces. It is generally acceptable to photograph landscapes, buggies, and buildings from a respectful distance. When in doubt, always ask.
- Bring cash. While larger establishments accept credit cards, many smaller family-run roadside stands, market stalls, and some small shops are cash-only.
- Get off the beaten path. The main roads can get busy. Don’t be afraid to turn down a scenic County or Township road (like CR 77 or TR 359). That’s where you’ll find the most beautiful views.
- Look for homemade signs. The best bread, pies, and produce are often sold from tables at the end of farm lanes. These simple, hand-painted signs lead to the most authentic treasures.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A camera (for landscapes and architecture)
- Cash in small denominations
- A cooler with ice packs to bring home cheese, meats, and other perishable goodies
- A reusable shopping bag for your purchases
- Seasonal clothing (a light jacket in spring/fall, a hat in summer)
Amish Country Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Planning your expenses is easy. Here’s a sample budget to help you prepare for your day trip from Cleveland.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (per person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gas | $20 – $30 | Based on a ~130-mile round trip from Cleveland. |
| Lunch | $15 – $25 | Average cost for a hearty sit-down meal. |
| Attractions | $20 – $40 | Based on visiting 1-2 paid attractions like Behalt or The Farm. |
| Snacks/Shopping | $20+ | Budget for fry pies, cheese, jams, or a small souvenir. |
| Total Estimated Cost | $75 – $115+ | A comfortable budget for a full day of enjoyment. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best day to go to Amish Country in Ohio?
The absolute best days to visit are Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. You’ll find all the shops and attractions open but with significantly fewer crowds than on Fridays and Saturdays. Any day from Monday to Saturday is great, but avoid Sundays at all costs, as nearly everything is closed.
How to spend a day in Amish Country, Ohio?
A perfect day involves a mix of culture, food, and scenery. Start at the Behalt Heritage Center to learn the history, enjoy an authentic Amish lunch in Berlin or Walnut Creek, spend the afternoon browsing the unique shops, and take time to drive the scenic backroads and appreciate the pastoral landscape.
When to visit Amish Country?
The two best seasons are late spring (May-June) for lush green hills and pleasant weather, and fall (September-October) for stunning autumn foliage and harvest activities. Summer is popular but can be hot, humid, and crowded. Winter is the quietest season, but many attractions have reduced hours or are closed.
Are there Amish in Cleveland?
No, there is no Amish community within Cleveland itself. The largest Amish population in the world resides in a rural region about 60-90 miles south of the city, primarily centered in Holmes County. This proximity is what makes it such an excellent and culturally unique day trip destination from Cleveland.
TLDR: Your Perfect Amish Country Day Trip
For those in a hurry, here’s the essential plan:
- Go Monday-Saturday ONLY. Never on a Sunday. Tuesdays or Wednesdays are best.
- Drive your own car. It’s the only way to get there and get around.
- Be respectful. Drive slowly near buggies and do not take photos of people’s faces.
- Must-Do Itinerary: Start at Behalt for culture, eat a hearty lunch at Der Dutchman or Boyd & Wurthmann, and explore the shops in Berlin.
- Bring cash and a cooler. For roadside stands and for bringing home delicious cheese and baked goods!
