I wanted to visit Lancaster because it is a well-known Amish community. The surrounding area, known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country, saw a large influx of German-speaking immigrants starting in the 19th century. Many of these settlers belonged to Christian sects such as the Lutherans, Mennonites, and Amish.
Their oldest settlement in America, Lancaster currently has around 31,000 Amish. Having learned a bit about their way of life in school I was looking forward to experiencing the culture firsthand!
Some highlights:
- Tastiest berry jam
- Beautiful scenery
- Simple and humble way of life
Central Market
My first stop was Central Market, an indoor farmers market with local foods and crafts. I enjoyed a New York pickle, an Italian sub, a German pretzel, and a donut. Wanted to buy some fudge but it was only sold in giant slabs..
Amish Bus Tour
The bus tour was the highlight of my visit. We drove around Amish country and made a few stops at local businesses. The guide lived near the Amish for many years and was helpful and enthusiastic even as I peppered her with questions.
The tour’s final stop was a restaurant which felt like a normal mom and pop diner. The food was outstanding and the best part was the fresh berry jam!
Amish Facts
The Amish are a traditionalist religious group who choose to live without many conveniences of modern technology. A key aspect of their life is that their homes are not connected to the electric power grid. While the Amish are not fundamentally opposed to electricity, they value self-reliance and believe that being connected to the grid ties one too closely to the world. The lack of such a connection removes the temptations of TV/internet and allows families to spend quality time together. Additionally, the Amish believe that excessive reliance on labor-saving devices deprives children of character-building opportunities. We could certainly learn a thing or two here!
While their homes are not connected to the grid, the Amish do use batteries and generate power using diesel generators and gas. More recently some members have also adopted the use of solar panels, which has been referred to as “tapping into God’s grid.”
Here are some facts about the Amish:
- Pay taxes but are exempt from Social Security and do not buy insurance.
- Not allowed to hold a driver’s license but are allowed to ride in cars.
- Use regular banks.
- Simple clothing: solid colors only, black pants for men.
- Most communities operate their own schools; formal education stops after grade 8.
- Men grow a beard after they are married; clean shaven men are single.
Amish Farm and House
The next day I went to The Amish Farm and House museum. Highly recommended!
Hershey, PA
My next stop after Amish country was the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania, home of Hershey’s chocolate company . Created as a model town for workers at the Hershey’s factory, much of the town’s infrastructure was developed by the company.
The Hershey Story
I briefly stopped at the Hershey Story museum which had some vintage stuff on display!
Hershey’s Chocolate World
Next up was Chocolate World, basically a giant Hershey’s candy store. I did a factory tour which was very kid-friendly and felt a bit like a Disneyland ride.
After a sweet time in Hershey I headed to NYC for a mid-road trip break!
Mikhail's Travel Adventures 