Pennsylvania Dutch Country
Best Amish Towns in Lancaster County
If you’re looking for places to visit in Pennsylvania that feel different from the typical East Coast getaway, Pennsylvania Amish Country offers an experience rooted in tradition, history, and rural beauty. The best Amish towns in Pennsylvania are centered throughout Lancaster County, where horse-drawn buggies travel alongside cars, farmland stretches for miles, and generations-old customs remain part of everyday life. From farm markets and quilt shops to scenic backroads and historic attractions, there is no shortage of things to do near Lancaster PA.
Ephrata is an excellent place to begin exploring Pennsylvania Amish towns. Home to the historic Ephrata Cloister, this small town combines early American history with local arts, covered bridges, and Amish-owned farm markets. Nearby Lititz is another favorite in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, known for its walkable downtown, independent shops, and landmarks like the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery and Wilbur Chocolate Shop.
Lancaster City offers a different perspective on Amish towns in PA, blending urban energy with deep agricultural roots. The Lancaster Central Market remains one of the best places to experience local Pennsylvania Dutch culture through fresh produce, baked goods, meats, and handmade specialties sold by Amish and Mennonite vendors.
Stay at a Historic Lancaster County Bed and Breakfast
For visitors looking to experience the region beyond day trips and sightseeing, choosing the right lodging matters. Historic Smithton Inn stands apart from the typical Lancaster Bed and Breakfast. Built in 1763, this thoughtfully restored property combines original stonework, fireplaces, handcrafted furnishings, and modern comforts with the character expected from a historic inn.
Located in Ephrata, the inn offers convenient access to many of the best Amish towns in Pennsylvania, including Bird-in-Hand, Strasburg, Intercourse, and Ronks. Guests can spend the day exploring Amish farm tours, scenic countryside, local restaurants, and artisan shops before returning for an elevated evening experience at the inn’s wine bar and Mediterranean-inspired bistro menu.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway through Pennsylvania Dutch Country or searching for the best Pennsylvania attractions, Lancaster County remains one of the most interesting destinations in the state.