If you’re considering a trip to Lancaster and want to get a genuine feel for Amish life, this Premium Amish Country Tour might be just what you’re after. It promises a well-rounded experience—covering a scenic drive, a historic farmhouse visit, and a self-guided farmstead tour—offering insight into a lifestyle that many find fascinating.
What we really like about this tour is how smoothly it combines different elements: the storytelling from knowledgeable guides, the peaceful beauty of the countryside, and the chance to see Amish traditions firsthand. Plus, the quite reasonable price point of around $38 per person makes it accessible for most travelers. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the duration; at about 2 to 3 hours, it’s a solid overview but leaves little time for extra exploration at each stop.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy learning about local cultures, prefer organized transport that cuts down on logistics, and want to see both the scenic and social sides of Amish life without spending days on it. If your goal is a quick, informative look rather than a deep dive, this could be a good pick.
Key Points
- Balanced Experience: Combines a scenic drive, farmhouse tour, and self-guided farm visit.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Highly praised for insightful narration and friendly hosts.
- Affordable Price: At $37.95, offers good value for a multi-part tour.
- Accessibility Options: Wheelchair accessible vehicle available upon request.
- Flexible Tour Structure: Includes a farmhouse tour that can be done before or after the bus ride.
- Time-efficient: Fits comfortably into a half-day itinerary with thorough sightseeing.
What to Expect from This Amish Country Tour
This tour is a straightforward but enriching way to experience Lancaster’s Amish communities without much hassle. It’s designed for travelers who want a good mix of scenery, education, and hands-on culture, all within a few hours.
Your journey begins near a well-known Lancaster theater, where you meet your guide before hopping into an air-conditioned minibus. The real charm starts as you wind through back roads that aren’t typically part of the tourist trail, giving you a glimpse of everyday Amish life—homes, farms, schools, and perhaps some children riding bikes or scooters. It’s a peaceful, picturesque view of rural life that sets the tone for the rest of the tour.
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The Scenic Drive
The 90-minute ride through Amish country is arguably the highlight. Your guide, like many reviewers mention, is a trove of information—covering everything from farm techniques to the Amish’s religious and social customs. One guest recalled, “Our driver Cindy was so knowledgeable, explained everything so well from the customs, schooling, religion, dress, and farming techniques that the Amish people follow in their lifestyle.”
This narrative enriches the scenery, making the passing farms and homes more meaningful. Expect to see the well-kept Amish farms, horse-drawn buggies, and the simplicity of their lifestyle contrasted with the surrounding modern world. The views are calming and give you a real sense of how they live side by side with contemporary society.
The Amish Farm and House
Your first stop is the Amish Farm and House, where you can explore a self-guided tour of the farm’s 15 acres, including a historic schoolhouse, craft market, and a variety of farm animals. This is a good chance to stretch your legs and get closer to rural life. As one reviewer noted, “There is never any waiting when you arrive, as there’s so much to do see and do on the self-guided walking tour of the farm.”
If you opt for the premium package, your experience extends into a guided tour of a farmhouse that dates back to 1805. This is a real highlight for history buffs and those curious about Amish traditions. Walking through the house, you’ll see authentic clothing, decorations, and learn about Amish family life, religion, and customs. A reviewer mentioned, “The farmhouse is located on our property. It was once lived in by an Amish family and we have converted it to be a museum… you’ll see examples of Amish girl and boy clothing, common decorations inside of an Amish home, and specialized kitchen appliances.”
The Benefits of the Guided House Tour
This part of the experience offers a more intimate look at Amish domestic life, although it’s worth noting that the house is a museum now, not an active home. Some reviews touched on how the house tour can feel crowded or brief, but overall, the insights shared seem to satisfy most visitors. One guest said, “The house tour was short, but also very interesting,” highlighting that it’s more about quality than quantity.
Final Farm Stops and Return
The tour includes visits to two farms, with ample time to enjoy the scenery, shop for handmade Amish items, or snap photos. Many reviewers appreciated the opportunity to purchase local souvenirs, which supports local artisans. The tour then wraps up back at the starting point.
The Value of This Tour
For the price, you’re getting a comprehensive look at Amish life, coupled with expert guides and scenic views. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach, which makes the tour engaging and personal. The inclusion of both a scenic drive and a farm visit means you’re not just hearing about Amish culture—you’re seeing and experiencing parts of it firsthand.
While the tour is fast-paced, most guests felt they gained valuable insights. For example, “Even if you think you know the Amish, I guarantee you will learn something,” shared one reviewer. The price point—roughly $38—compares well with other tours that might only cover one aspect, making this a solid choice if you want variety and depth in a short time frame.
Considerations
One thing to be aware of is the length and pace. Some travelers expressed a wish for longer stops or more time at each site. If you’re a slow explorer or love getting detailed, you might find the schedule quite tight. Also, weather can impact your experience, so check the forecast—bad weather could mean rescheduling or missing out on some scenic views.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This experience suits curious travelers eager to understand Amish customs without committing to a longer or more intensive visit. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a meaningful overview of Lancaster’s Amish culture. It also works well for those who prefer guided, organized tours rather than navigating on their own.
If you don’t mind a tour where the focus is on snapshots, stories, and a taste of rural life, you’ll likely enjoy this. It’s also accessible for travelers needing wheelchair accommodations, which is a thoughtful touch.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour offers a wheelchair accessible vehicle upon request, making it more inclusive for those with mobility needs.
How long does the entire tour last?
The tour takes about 2 to 3 hours, including the scenic drive, farmhouse tour, and farmstead visit, so it fits well within a morning or early afternoon.
Can I choose to do the farmhouse tour before or after the bus ride?
Yes, the guided farmhouse tour can be scheduled either before or after the bus tour, offering some flexibility depending on your preference.
What is included in the premium package?
The premium package includes a guided tour of the 1805 farmhouse in addition to the scenic drive and self-guided farmstead exploration.
Is there any shopping available?
Yes, there’s a craft market at the farm where you can purchase handmade Amish crafts and souvenirs.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for photos are recommended. The outdoor nature of the stops means you’ll want to be prepared for different weather conditions.
Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House
“The Amish Tour was excellent. Our tour guide/bus driver Cindy was so knowledgeable, explained everything so well from the customs, schooling, reli…”
Final Thoughts
All in all, this Premium Amish Country Tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into Amish life, combining scenic beauty with cultural storytelling. It’s a particularly good choice for travelers who appreciate guided experiences and want to see a diverse side of Lancaster without spending an entire day on it.
The knowledgeable guides, the scenic countryside, and the authentic farmhouse visits combine to create a memorable snapshot of rural Pennsylvania. Though it’s not a deep-dive into every aspect of Amish culture, it provides enough to spark curiosity and appreciation.
If you’re after a straightforward, comfortable, and reasonably priced way to explore Amish country, this tour is hard to beat. Just keep in mind the time limits if you love lingering at each stop, and plan your outfit accordingly for the weather. Overall, a solid choice for most travelers eager to see Lancaster’s rural charm.
Hope this helps you decide if this tour fits what you’re looking for. Lancaster’s Amish community is truly special—enjoy your trip!