Plan your Next Weekend Getaway to Ohio’s Amish Country
This post may contain affiliate links and we may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you.
When you Need a Couple’s Getaway
Sometimes getting away from it all means getting away from your own family. With busy work schedules, active kids, and something always needing to be done around the house, it’s difficult to find time alone and reconnect. Sitting together on the sidelines watching your kids play sports does not count. When it’s time get away for a weekend, let me suggest a visit to Ohio’s Amish Country.
I have to admit, it took years before I was ready to leave my children and go away for a few nights. I cried almost the entire way there. However, once we arrived and I was able to sit down and have an uninterrupted conversation with my husband during dinner for the first time in years, I finally understood. The time away was rejuvenating. We returned to our little family rested, happy, and ready to return to our normal routine.
Ohio’s Amish Country
Ohio’s Amish Country is our “go to” place when we only have a couple days to get away. Amish country for us is only a couple hours away but it feels like worlds away from our daily lives. Nestled in the hills of east-central Ohio, you will find the towns of Berlin, Millersburg, Walnut Creek, Sugarcreek, and Charm. Our favorite place to stay in Ohio’s Amish Country is The Berlin Grande. It offers views of the countryside, modern furnishings, and a friendly and accommodating staff. Hotel amenities include a complimentary breakfast bar, free Wi-Fi, and an indoor saltwater pool and hot tub. In the rooms you will find an dining area with granite countertops, microwave, coffee pot, and refrigerator. Did I mention that the mattresses are locally made? Above and beyond any other hotel when it comes to comfort. You will not want to leave. I promise.
Below I have listed a few of our favorite places to eat and visit in Ohio’s Amish Country. Please note that most places in Amish Country are closed on Sundays. To maximize your time (if going over a weekend), I suggest staying overnight on Friday to get an early start on Saturday.
Restaurants & Food
Der Dutchman Restaurant & Bakery
Nestled on top of a hill, Der Dutchman in Walnut Creek has the most amazing views of the rolling hills in Amish Country. At Der Dutchman, they have a nice variety of homemade entrees as well as a salad and breakfast/dinner buffet. Make sure to leave room for pie, you won’t be disappointed. Check-out the menu here. Be sure to stop at the bakery and take home a pastry, pie, or other homemade goodie. The bakery also has a variety of dry goods, jellies, jams, coffee, and spices.
Heini’s Cheese Chalet
A stop at Heini’s Cheese Chalet is a must when we visit Ohio’s Amish Country. As you wind yourself around the store, you are allowed to sample the different types of cheese and smoked meats before you buy. Be sure to browse the different areas of Heini’s where you will find a variety of sauces, spices, fudge, candy and other culinary treats. Expect long lines on Saturdays during the summer and fall but don’t let that discourage you, the staff at Heini’s are very efficient and the line moves quickly. 6005 County Road 77, Millersburg, OH, 44654, Phone: 800-253-6636
Chalet in the Valley Restaurant
As long as we’ve been visiting Ohio’s Amish Country, we’ve never stopped to eat at the Chalet in the Valley until our most recent stay. We were so happy we did too, the food was delicious and the ambience added to the overall experience. The menu offers authentic Swiss and Austrian dishes as well as American classics.
Rebecca’s Bistro
Located in an early 1800’s cabin, Rebecca’s Bistro is a perfect little bistro for lunch where you will find the best sandwiches, soups, and salads around. The atmosphere is very warm and inviting and the staff are as friendly as they come. Rebecca’s uses fresh, local ingredients and as soon as you take a bite you’ll see why people can’t get enough of it. You can look at Rebecca’s menu here.
Shopping
Walnut Creek Amish Flea Market
At the Walnut Creek Amish Flea Market, you will find a huge selection of items from vendors selling everything from handmade items, pottery, stationary, seasonal decorations, home decor, pet items, and much, much more! If you get hungry shopping (and who doesn’t?), grab something to eat at Grandma Schrocks Kitchen. On one Saturday a month, you can also enjoy live entertainment while you browse. Check out the entertainment schedule here. Please Note: The Walnut Creek Flea Market is closed for the season. It reopens March 2, 2023 Thursday through Saturday.
Berlin Antique Mall
is part of Schrock’s Heritage Village where you will also find a general store, craft mall, candle factory, Christmas store (listed below) and more. This antique mall is all on one floor and has wide aisles to make it accessible to all. My husband and I purchased an antique desk for our first house at this mall, I remember how excited I was when we bought it. It was a perfect for our needs and brought so much character into our home. Whether you’re a collector or casual shopper, you will love searching through a wide variety of antique treasures.
Berlin Village Antique Mall
The Berlin Village Antique Mall is the largest in the area, spanning two floors and 26,000 square feet. Whether you’re just browsing or looking for a specific item, you’ll have plenty to choose from here. From collectibles to glassware, furniture, and everything in between, The Berlin Village Antique Mall is a great place to spend an afternoon. When you need to rest or wait for someone to finish their shopping, there are plenty of rockers outside in which to pass the time.
Carlisle Gifts
Carlisle Gifts is a lovely store located directly across the street from Der Dutchman and close to Rebecca’s Bistro. Over the years we have purchased paintings, gifts for our kids, and items for the house at Carlisle Gifts. It’s open late until 8:00 and closed on Sundays. It’s a great way to spend some time if you have to wait for your table when eating at Der Dutchman or Rebecca’s Bistro since they are located very close by.
Tis the Season
Tis the Season celebrates Christmas all year long. Step inside and you’ll instantly be filled with the holiday spirit! With 3 floors of both traditional and unique decorations, you’re sure to find something to add to your own collection. I love decorating my tree and remembering our time in Amish Country as I hang-up ornaments purchased on our trip.
Tis the Season is conveniently located next to the Berlin Antique Mall.
