Amish Farmlands Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Lancaster and want to learn about the Amish way of life without spending hours or breaking the bank, the Amish Farmlands Tour might catch your eye. This guided ride offers a snapshot of Amish life in just about 90 minutes, making it a quick but informative experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to see the beautiful farmland from the comfort of a small, air-conditioned minibus — perfect for those who might not want to hike or bike around. Plus, the stops at Amish roadside businesses, like quilt shops and bakeries, give it a genuine local feel that many travelers find charming.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that on Sundays, the tour runs but cannot stop at Amish businesses, which might make it feel a little less engaging if you’re hoping for those hands-on visits. It’s best suited for visitors who want a quick, relaxed overview of Amish life without a lot of walking or strenuous activity.

If you’re curious about the Amish lifestyle or just want a comfortable way to see the countryside, this tour could be a solid choice. Just be prepared for a small group and an experience driven by a guide who, as some reviews point out, may not answer every question with enthusiasm — but still provides a worthwhile overview.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: The 90-minute duration is ideal if you want a quick overview.
• Comfortable transport: An air-conditioned minibus seats up to 14, making it intimate yet comfortable.
• Insightful guides: The guide’s knowledge shines, especially in explaining Amish customs and community life.
• Roadside stops: Stops at Amish businesses add authenticity and some memorable souvenirs.
• Limited on Sundays: Tour still runs, but stops are not available, which might affect the experience.
• Great value: At around $27 per person, it’s an affordable way to get a taste of Amish culture.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Amish Farmlands Tour kicks off at the meeting point in Bird in Hand, PA, a popular hub for travelers exploring Amish Lancaster. From there, your guide will take you on a roughly 90-minute drive through the scenic Amish farmland, with the primary goal of giving you a sense of what life is like for the Amish community.

The first part of the tour is all about the drive — expect to see rolling fields, traditional barns, and perhaps some horse-drawn buggies. The real value here is in the narration; the guide explains the Amish way of life, covering their customs, traditions, and reasons for living so simply. We loved the way guides share stories that bring the community to life, making it feel real and personal.

Stops at Amish Roadside Businesses

On most days (Monday through Saturday), the tour includes stops at Amish roadside businesses like quilt shops, craft stores, or bakeries. These stops are usually brief but meaningful, giving you a chance to see the craftsmanship firsthand or pick up some handmade souvenirs. As Norma_V mentioned in her review, “Loved the roadside souvenir stops,” which many find adds a charming touch to the experience.

However, if you’re visiting on a Sunday, you should know these stops are not available, so the tour becomes a bit more of a scenic drive with less opportunity for interaction or shopping. This might be a downside if you’re hoping to purchase genuine Amish-made crafts or try baked goods straight from their kitchens.

The Guide and Group Size

The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and group energy. Our review from Shallyn_m highlights Jim, the guide, as “very knowledgeable,” which can really make or break the experience. One reviewer, Santiago_B, was a bit disappointed, noting that the guide “was not willing to answer questions,” but that seems more an exception than the rule.

Most guests, like Norma_V and Shallyn_m, felt the guides offered plenty of insight, making the ride both educational and interesting. The bus itself is comfortable, with seatbelts for safety, which adds to the relaxed vibe of the tour.

Price and Value

At $26.95 per person, this tour isn’t expensive, especially considering the personalized narration and scenic views. It’s a good value for those wanting a quick overview rather than a full-day immersion. Keep in mind, food and souvenirs are extra, but the tour itself covers the basics of Amish culture quite well within the short time frame.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.
• Meeting point: Conveniently located in Bird in Hand, near other attractions and accommodations.
• Accessibility: The air-conditioned vehicle with seatbelts makes for a comfortable ride, and service animals are allowed.
• Booking: Confirmations are quick, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

Authenticity and Personal Experiences

While this tour offers a good overview, some reviews suggest that the depth of interaction can vary. Norma_V appreciated the “insight into the Lancaster Amish Mennonite community,” and the scenic views are often praised. Conversely, Santiago_B felt that the guide’s responses were limited and was less satisfied overall.

This highlights that, like many small group tours, your experience may depend on the guide’s personality and willingness to engage. Still, for most travelers, the combination of scenic drives, informative narration, and roadside stops creates a nice snapshot of Amish life — enough to pique curiosity without the commitment of a full-day tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for travelers who want to:

• Get a quick yet meaningful overview of Amish culture
• Prefer a small, intimate group
• Enjoy scenic drives and countryside views
• Have limited time but still want an authentic feel
• Don’t mind a tour that may vary in depth depending on the guide

Those looking for a more immersive experience, such as visiting Amish homes or participating in hands-on activities, might want to consider other options. But if your goal is a comfortable, affordable introduction with some roadside charm, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Q: How long is the Amish Farmlands Tour?
A: The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Q: Where does the tour start and end?
A: It begins at 3121 Old Philadelphia Pike in Bird in Hand, PA, and returns there at the end.

Q: What’s included in the price?
A: The tour includes a seat on an air-conditioned minibus and a guided explanation of Amish life. Stops at Amish roadside businesses are on most days except Sundays.

Q: Is the tour suitable for children?
A: While not explicitly designed for kids, the short duration and scenic views make it manageable. Just note that it’s focused on community insights rather than hands-on activities.

Q: Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
A: Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Q: Is there any food or beverages included?
A: No, food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase items at the roadside stops.

Q: How many people typically join the tour?
A: The group size is capped at 14, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

The Amish Farmlands Tour offers a solid, friendly introduction to Lancaster’s Amish community. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a quick, comfortable overview without committing to a full-day or more immersive experience. The scenic views and knowledgeable guides shine, especially if you catch a good guide like Jim.

While it might not satisfy those craving in-depth cultural exchanges or extensive shopping, it’s a practical choice for a straightforward, affordable look at Amish life. Just remember that on Sundays, without roadside stops, the tour becomes more of a scenic drive — still worthwhile, but slightly less engaging.

If you’re after a relaxed, friendly, and informative ride that respects your time and budget, this tour can be a lovely addition to your Lancaster visit.