Lancaster County: Amish Farmlands, Museum Tour, Farm Visit

Travelers seeking a glimpse into the slower, simpler life of the Amish will find this Lancaster County tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience. Priced at $38 per person, it combines scenic countryside travel, historical insights, and hands-on farm visits—all within about three hours. While it’s not an in-depth, all-day immersion, it strikes a good balance between education, fun, and value.

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is the personalized, small-group vibe. Traveling in a private 14-passenger van means less crowding and more interaction with a knowledgeable guide like Sherry or Charles, recognized for their friendly, informative style. The stops at Amish-owned shops, the farmhouse, and the farm itself give a tangible feel for Amish life—something we particularly appreciate.

That said, a potential consideration is the tour’s schedule and content. The farmhouse is a historic site built in 1805, but it’s a staged house next to a Target, which might surprise some visitors expecting a remote country setting. Also, Amish farm-stands are closed on Sundays, so planning ahead is important if you’re visiting on that day. This tour suits travelers who want an accessible, engaging overview rather than a lengthy, immersive experience.

This experience is best suited for curious travelers, families, or anyone interested in authentic Amish culture and rural Pennsylvania scenery. Those expecting a leisurely day with lots of animal interaction or a deep dive into Amish traditions may want to supplement this tour with more dedicated visits. But for many, it’s an excellent introduction that balances educational content with fun, flavor, and value.

Key Points

• Small-group comfort: Traveling in a private 14-passenger van offers a cozy, interactive experience.
• Rich storytelling: Guides like Sherry and Charles are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.
• Authentic insights: The farmhouse tour provides a detailed look at Amish life, with translations in 17 languages for international visitors.
• Tasty local food: Sample Amish baked goods, ice cream, and hearty PA Dutch dishes at the farm.
• Varied stops: From Amish shop visits to animal encounters and traditional schoolhouses, there’s a good mix of experiences.
• Value for money: At $38, this tour offers a compact, informative, and entertaining look at Amish country—most reviewers find it well worth the price.

The Journey Through Amish Country

This Lancaster County tour starts at the historic Amish Farm and House, conveniently located off Route 30 between the American Music Theatre and Target shopping center. The meeting point is straightforward: ample free parking in front or rear lots, and a welcoming farmhouse built back in 1805. Don’t be put off by the proximity to Target; once inside the farmhouse, you’ll find an authentic slice of 19th-century life.

The Guided Bus Tour (90 Minutes)

The core of the experience is a guided, 90-minute journey through the Amish countryside. Your guide—most reviews mention Sherry or Charles—is both personable and insightful, sharing stories about Amish farms, homes, and one-room schoolhouses. Expect lots of photo-worthy views of rolling farmland, traditional barns, and Amish families going about their daily routines.

One frequent comment from visitors is how much they appreciated the storytelling skills of the guides. Deborah highlighted that Charles was “fun and very informative” about the surrounding areas. This makes the ride not just scenic but educational, helping you understand Amish culture and customs without feeling like a lecture.

The Amish Farmhouse Tour

The highlight for many is the historic farmhouse tour. Your guide takes you room-by-room through a building once lived in by Amish residents, offering a window into their way of life. You’ll learn about Amish clothing, religion, and traditions, with a detailed explanation that’s accessible even if you don’t speak English fluently—translations are available in 17 languages, a thoughtful touch for international guests.

Some reviews mention that the guide’s narration can be quite comprehensive, with Guido noting that guides are “super nice and able to tell many things about the Amish.” It’s a solid chance to see how Amish families lived centuries ago, albeit in a staged setting close to a commercial area. The experience is educational but might leave some travelers wishing for a more remote or genuine farm setting.

The Farm Visit and Animal Encounters

Following the house tour, you’re invited to explore the 15-acre farm at your own pace. This part is often the most enjoyable—most visitors spend about an hour wandering among animals like baby goats, chickens, Alpacas, and Max, the Scottish Highland steer. Many reviewers, like Andrea Lee, wished there were more animals or opportunities to feed them, but the farm’s overall charm remains.

You’ll also find Amish artisans and a one-room schoolhouse, where you can sit in the same desks Amish children use and browse through authentic schoolbooks. The farm also features the “Scooter Run,” where kids—and adults—can try riding Amish scooters, adding a playful element to the visit.

Food and Shopping Opportunities

No Amish experience is complete without sampling local foods, and this tour delivers. Visitors can purchase homemade baked goods, ice cream, and root beer from Amish vendors at roadside stands. David King and his family serve up delicious chicken dinners at the Amish BBQ Barn, along with classic PA Dutch treats like Whoopie Pies—reviewers like Stephanie B. loved the food, calling it “delicious” and well worth the extra cost.

You’ll also have opportunities to buy Amish-made crafts, quilts, furniture, and foods, making it a good chance to pick up unique souvenirs.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts approximately three hours, with flexible start times based on availability. The transportation is climate-controlled, making it comfortable regardless of weather. It’s also wheelchair accessible, but travelers should note that inside the farmhouse, there’s a flight of stairs without an elevator.

What to bring: It’s advisable to carry cash for purchases and tips. Video recording is not allowed during the house tour, so plan to take photos beforehand.

Weather considerations: The tour runs rain or shine. Severe weather may lead to contact from the local operator, so keep an eye on your email or phone.

Booking and cancellation: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Authenticity and Value

This tour strikes a good balance between being informative without feeling staged or overly commercialized*. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge shine through, as multiple reviews praise their ability to answer questions and share authentic insights.

For $38, you get a compact, well-organized experience that covers all the key aspects of Amish life—farms, homes, food, and crafts—without overly long travel times or expensive add-ons. The inclusion of a farm visit, with animals and local artisans, adds a tangible, fun element that many travelers find memorable.

While some visitors mention that the farmhouse is a staged house next to Target, most see it as a convenient way to access a piece of Amish history. The guides do a good job of explaining the context, making the experience more meaningful.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers looking for an accessible, family-friendly introduction to Amish culture. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives, historical storytelling, and hands-on farm experiences. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Amish life, this tour delivers good value and authentic insights.

However, if you’re after a completely remote, farm-based experience or want to see Amish life without any commercial proximity, you might want to explore more specialized or longer tours.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour starts at the Amish Farm and House location, where parking is free and ample.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts around 3 hours, including the bus ride, house tour, and farm visit.

Can I buy Amish goods during the tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to purchase Amish-made crafts, foods, and souvenirs during the stops.

Are there food options included?
Food isn’t included in the ticket price, but you can buy baked goods, ice cream, and hearty PA Dutch foods at the farm or roadside stands.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the bus is wheelchair accessible, though the farmhouse has stairs and no elevator.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The guided house tour provides written translations in 17 languages, with the main narration in English.

Do farm animals interact with visitors?
Most visitors can see and sometimes pet animals like goats, chickens, and alpacas. Feeding animals is not explicitly mentioned but could be available at certain stops.

What should I bring?
Cash for purchases and tips, comfortable shoes for walking around the farm, and a camera for photos.

Final Thoughts

This Lancaster County tour offers a practical, engaging introduction to Amish country—highlighting the simplicity and craftsmanship of Amish life without overwhelming travelers. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it an approachable way to learn and see local culture firsthand. The farm visit, with its animals and artisan shops, rounds out the experience nicely, making it suitable for families and curious travelers alike.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an all-day immersion or a truly remote farm experience, it’s hard to beat the value, accessibility, and authentic charm packed into just a few hours. If you’re after a taste of Amish life combined with scenic views and friendly guides, this tour is a solid choice.