Amish Experience SuperSaver Package

Planning a trip to Lancaster County? You’re likely eager to see the rolling farmland, learn about Amish traditions, and gain a genuine sense of their way of life. This Amish Experience SuperSaver Package offers a convenient, budget-friendly way to tick all those boxes in just four hours. While it won’t replace an in-depth visit, it packs a surprising amount of insight and fun into one compact tour.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the combination of three activities at a very reasonable price means you get quite a lot for your money. Second, the knowledgeable guides and authentic storytelling help bring the Amish world to life in a way that’s both educational and entertaining. On the flip side, the tour’s schedule, especially on Sundays or busy holiday weekends, can limit some experiences, so plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who want a broad overview without spending an entire day, especially families or first-time visitors eager for a quick but meaningful introduction.

Key Points

• Offers a well-rounded view of Amish culture in a single, cost-effective package.
• Includes a scenic farmland shuttle, a short immersive film, and a guided walkthrough of a replica Amish home and school.
• The guides are praised for their knowledge and personable approach.
• The tour is limited to small groups, enhancing the experience’s intimacy.
• Best scheduled on weekdays, as some stops may be limited on Sundays.
• Designed for travelers wanting an efficient overview, not an exhaustive exploration.

An Overview of the Amish Experience SuperSaver Package

If you’re looking for a way to understand the Amish community without the commitment of a full-day tour, this package presents a balanced option. For just $34.95 per person, you’re getting a taste of Lancaster’s Amish life through three distinct activities—each designed to open a window into Amish culture and daily life.

The tour is roughly four hours long, making it ideal for those on a packed schedule or who prefer a concise yet comprehensive introduction. Since most bookings are made around 11 days in advance, it seems to be quite popular with travelers who want to lock in a reliable experience. With a maximum of 14 travelers per group, the tour maintains an intimate feel, allowing for questions and personal interaction.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Let’s break down what each part of the tour involves and what you might gain from each experience.

Amish Farmlands Tour: A Scenic Ride

The tour kicks off with a 90-minute guided ride through Lancaster’s Amish farmland on an air-conditioned mini bus. The small group size makes for a relaxed atmosphere where you can take in the views and perhaps snap some photos of the iconic Amish farms and countryside. Your guide will point out various features of Amish life and farming practices, giving context to what you see.

One highlight is the stop at an Amish goods stand, where you can purchase homemade items—possibly a jar of peanut butter or a bottle of homemade root beer, as some reviews mention. This provides a tangible connection to the Amish community and their craftsmanship.

Amish Experience Theater: A Short, Engaging Film

Next, you’ll watch “Jacob’s Choice,” a 35-minute film told across five screens with special effects. The story follows a young Amish man contemplating whether to remain Amish, offering a personal look at the complex decisions faced by Amish youth. It’s a clever way to blend storytelling with history, making the Amish lifestyle relatable and thought-provoking.

Several travelers appreciated this segment, noting the film’s entertainment value. One reviewer said, “The movie was entertaining and very enlightening,” emphasizing how it adds depth beyond just sightseeing.

Amish House and One-Room School: A Guided Walk

The final activity is a 45-minute guided tour of a replica Amish home and school on-site. This walk-through provides a visual and tactile sense of Amish domestic life, with explanations about their values, routines, and education system. Visitors often find this part eye-opening because it offers a glimpse of everyday life in a simplified, traditional setting.

While some may wish for more in-depth access, the guided nature ensures you get a clear and respectful overview of Amish customs.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation is via a small, air-conditioned bus, which tends to keep the atmosphere cozy and personal. The farm tour departs at scheduled times—10 am, 12 pm, or 2 pm—giving you flexibility depending on your plans.

The group size is capped at 14 travelers, meaning it’s not a crowded bus and offers plenty of opportunity for questions. Reviewers frequently praise the guides, like Rosie and Jim, for their knowledge and friendly manner. One reviewer called their guide “an amazing tour guide,” highlighting how important a good guide can be for this kind of experience.

Timing-wise, the farm tour and film run hourly, so you might find yourself with a bit of downtime between stops. This can be a plus if you prefer a leisurely pace, but it’s worth noting if you’re on a tight schedule.

Considerations for Scheduling

On Sundays, some stops—like visiting Amish farms or stands—may not be available. A reviewer noted their disappointment, but the tour provider has adjusted scheduling to help mitigate this issue later in the season. Still, it’s wise to plan your visit on a weekday if you want the full experience.

You’ll need to prepare a car seat if you’re bringing small children on the farm tour, as children must have their own ticket and cannot share seats with parents. This detail might matter if you’re traveling with little ones.

Value for Money

At just under $35, this tour offers significant value. It combines multiple activities, including transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary—elements that would cost more if booked separately. Several reviews emphasize the good value, with comments like “excellant value” and “worth the ticket price.”

While it doesn’t include meals or hands-on Amish experiences, the combination of viewing farms, watching a film, and touring a model homestead makes it a well-rounded overview. For first-timers or those short on time, it offers an effective snapshot of Amish life without feeling rushed or superficial.

The Authenticity and Learning Experience

Many travelers highlight the guides’ expertise and their friendly manner, which enhances the experience. One reviewer mentioned their guide as a “retired college professor,” which hints at the depth of knowledge and the ability to answer questions thoughtfully.

The storytelling, especially through the film and the guided tour of the Amish house, helps demystify Amish traditions that might otherwise seem strange or outdated. Instead, visitors often come away with a newfound appreciation for their resilience and values.

Limitations and Considerations

No tour is perfect. The main drawback is that some parts, like visiting actual Amish farms or stores, depend on the day of the week. On Sundays, those stops are limited or unavailable, which disappointed some visitors. Also, the tour is quite structured; if you’re seeking an immersive, hands-on experience, this tour may feel somewhat curated.

The tour’s schedule and duration mean it’s best suited for those who want an overview rather than a deep dive into Amish life. Also, be aware that food and drinks are not included—though you might find opportunities to purchase Amish-made treats during the farm stop.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This package is ideal for travelers seeking a quick, cost-effective introduction to Lancaster’s Amish community. It’s particularly good for families, first-timers, or those with limited time but still eager to learn and see authentic sights. If you’re looking for a relaxed way to see the farmland, enjoy a thoughtful film, and understand Amish daily life, this tour fits the bill.

Those who are very interested in hands-on experiences, shopping at Amish stores, or visiting farms on a Sunday might want to consider other options or plan their trip accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Amish Experience SuperSaver Package offers a balanced, inexpensive way to get a meaningful glimpse of Amish culture without overextending your schedule or budget. With friendly guides, scenic views, and engaging storytelling, it’s a tour that many find both educational and fun.

While it’s not an exhaustive or deeply immersive experience, it hits the sweet spot for visitors who want a straightforward, authentic taste of Lancaster County’s most famous residents. The small group size and carefully curated activities ensure you won’t feel rushed, and the value for money is hard to beat.

In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, engaging overview that respects the Amish way of life while fitting into a busy itinerary, this tour makes a solid choice. Just remember to book in advance, choose your day wisely, and come ready for a friendly, informative adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but small children need to provide their own car seat on the farm tour, and all kids must have their own ticket. Parents cannot hold or share seats with children.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately four hours, including sightseeing, the film, and the guided walk.

What are the departure times?
The farm tour departs at 10 am, 12 pm, or 2 pm. The film runs hourly from 10 am to 5 pm, and the Amish Homestead is offered hourly from 10:45 am to 4:45 pm.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s an opportunity to purchase Amish goods during the farm stop.

Can I visit Amish farms or stores?
On most days, yes. However, if you visit on a Sunday, some stops like farms or stands may be limited or unavailable, so plan accordingly.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, via a small, air-conditioned 14-passenger bus. The intimacy of the group enhances the experience.

What if I want a more in-depth Amish experience?
This tour provides an excellent overview but not deep immersion. For more detailed experiences, consider other Lancaster tours or visit Amish establishments directly.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
No, this tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Is the tour suitable for public transportation?
Yes, it’s near public transportation options, making it accessible for travelers without a car.

This tour is a smart choice for anyone wanting a straightforward, affordable introduction to Amish life, with knowledgeable guides and a variety of sights packed into a manageable time frame.