Authentic Tour & Meal with the Amish!

Traveling to Lancaster and eager to learn about the Amish community beyond the typical tourist fare? This tour promises a personal, authentic experience that combines sightseeing, cultural education, and a hearty home-cooked meal at a real Amish family’s home. With a solid 5.0 rating from over 300 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this journey both meaningful and memorable.

What we really love about this tour is the small-group setting, which allows for a more intimate connection with the hosts and guides. The inclusion of a traditional Amish meal offers a taste of local culture that’s often missing from cookie-cutter sightseeing. Plus, the transportation is straightforward, with round-trip transit from central Lancaster, making it a hassle-free day. The only consideration might be that some travelers could find the tour’s 2-hour 15-minute duration a bit quick if they’re looking for a slower, more relaxed experience.

This experience is perfect for those who want to go beyond the surface, enjoy delicious homemade food, and gain genuine insights into Amish life. It’s ideal for curious travelers, culture enthusiasts, and food lovers alike—especially those who value small-group interaction and authentic encounters.

Key Points

• Authentic Amish experience with a personal, small-group setting
• Home-cooked Amish meal included, with vegetarian options available
• Easy, round-trip transportation from Lancaster city center
• Guided commentary offers in-depth cultural insights and local highlights
• Opportunities for direct interaction with Amish hosts and guides
• Ideal for travelers craving genuine, immersive experiences

What You Can Expect from the Tour

A Convenient Meeting Point and Friendly Start

Your journey begins near the Discover Lancaster Visitors Center at 12:00 pm, where you’ll meet your guide and group. From there, a cozy van or vehicle takes you into the Amish countryside, eliminating the hassle of navigating yourself. As you pull out, your guide will start sharing fascinating stories about Lancaster’s history, the Amish way of life, and local landmarks like covered bridges, which are a signature of the area’s scenic charm.

Scenic Drive with Insightful Narration

The drive itself sets the tone—expect plenty of photo-worthy views of rolling fields, old-fashioned barns, and the iconic covered bridges. Several reviewers mention how their guides made the ride engaging and educational. For example, one traveler noted that their guide, Moses, was “friendly and very informative,” enriching their understanding of Amish traditions and community life.

Learning About Amish Culture

This isn’t just a sightseeing tour. It’s an introduction to a community that lives with simplicity and purpose. As your guide explains the customs, practices, and history of the Amish, you’ll start to appreciate what makes their lifestyle so distinctive. The reviews praise guides like Jamie and Steven for their knowledge and approachable manner, which makes complex topics easier to understand.

Visiting a Real Amish Family Home

The highlight is the visit to a local Amish family’s residence. Once there, you’re welcomed into their home—an experience not many travelers get to enjoy. This is where the tour truly shines, offering a rare glimpse into everyday life. The hosts, like Sarah and her family, are warm, welcoming, and eager to share their traditions, answer questions, and serve a delicious, home-cooked meal.

The Amish Meal: Hearty, Traditional, and Delicious

The meal is often described as “amazing” and “completely satisfying.” Expect a generous spread of Amish dishes—think meats, potatoes, vegetables, and homemade desserts. Several reviews mention the meal as a highlight, with one guest describing it as a “Thanksgiving-style feast,” featuring meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and creamed corn. It’s clear that the food is prepared with care, offering authentic flavors that truly reflect Amish hospitality.

Flexibility for Dietary Needs

Vegetarian options are available if requested ahead of time, making it accessible for different dietary preferences. Reviewers appreciated that the guides and hosts were accommodating, with one noting they could eat most of the meal despite being gluten-free.

Return to Lancaster with New Perspectives

After lunch, the group heads back to the starting point, often with new insights and a full stomach. Many reviews highlight how the personal stories and hospitality made the experience stand out, with hosts willing to chat and answer questions even after the meal.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Lancaster Meeting Point and Departure

All tours start at the Discover Lancaster Visitors Center, a central, easy-to-find location. You’ll meet your guide, who is usually very knowledgeable and eager to share information. The group size is capped at 14 travelers, fostering a relaxed and personable atmosphere.

Stop 2: Scenic Drive and Cultural Commentary

The drive through Lancaster’s countryside is both scenic and educational. Expect to see the iconic covered bridges, pastoral fields, and traditional farms. Reviewers mention how guides like Moses, Jamie, and Steven do an excellent job explaining the history and customs of the Amish community, making the ride as engaging as the destination.

Stop 3: Amish Family Visit and Lunch

The core part of the experience. You’ll step into an Amish family’s home where you can observe their way of life firsthand. The hosts often have a friendly dog and are happy to answer questions. The meal, prepared by the family, includes traditional dishes that visitors describe as “delicious” and “more than enough.” One reviewer even said they couldn’t eat all the food—“bring cash if you want to buy some homemade goodies.”

Stop 4: Return and Reflection

The journey ends back at the original meeting point. Many guests comment on how the combination of storytelling, cultural exposure, and good food made this tour a highlight of their Lancaster visit.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touch

Reviewers consistently praise guides like Moses, Jamie, Steven, and Dale for their friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge. They go beyond simple facts, sharing personal stories, explaining regional nuances, and answering questions with patience and enthusiasm. This makes the experience feel less like a scripted tour and more like visiting friends who just happen to be experts.

Authentic Amish Experience

Unlike bus tours with quick stops, this experience offers a real peek into Amish life. Visiting a family’s home, sharing a meal, and engaging in conversation makes it more than just sightseeing. Reviewers say it’s “a great way to experience a new culture” and “a truly unique opportunity” that should not be missed.

Good Value for Money

At $89 per person, considering the guided narration, transportation, and a homemade meal, this tour is often described as “worth it.” Several reviews note that the meal alone is generous and tasty, and the cultural insights are priceless for those wanting a deeper understanding.

Small Group and Personal Interaction

Limited to 14 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This setup encourages questions, dialogue, and a relaxed environment where everyone can feel comfortable. Guests say guides are “happy to answer questions” and hosts are “warm and welcoming,” which enhances the overall experience.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a few guests mentioned some small issues. One reviewer felt the experience was “just okay” and found the value a bit questionable, suggesting that expectations should be aligned with the price. Another noted that transportation can be crowded, and a bad smell from a fellow traveler might occasionally detract from the experience. Weather can also impact the tour, especially if outdoor parts are involved, so checking the forecast is advised.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuine, immersive look into Amish culture that many travelers find enriching. The combination of scenic drives, friendly guides, and a hearty, home-cooked meal makes for a memorable day. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic personal interactions and want to go beyond typical sightseeing.

If you’re curious about the Amish lifestyle but prefer engaging stories over rushed stops, this tour strikes a great balance. The shared stories, authentic food, and warm family welcome create an experience that can truly deepen your understanding of Lancaster’s unique community.

For travelers who love culture, history, and good food in a relaxed setting, this is an excellent choice—an honest window into a way of life that remains largely unchanged for generations.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transit from central Lancaster makes the trip easy and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Can I request vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you request in advance.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, promoting a personal and engaging atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews mention the family-hosted meal being welcoming to kids. However, those who might have difficulty getting on and off a van with two steps should consider this.

What kind of food is served?
Expect a traditional Amish home-cooked meal, with dishes like meats, potatoes, vegetables, and desserts. Reviewers highlight the meal as a definite highlight.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
Most costs are included, but bringing cash for purchasing homemade goodies is recommended.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

This experience offers a heartfelt glimpse into Amish life, making it a worthwhile addition to any Lancaster itinerary. Authentic, friendly, and delicious—it’s a day that can leave you with stories to tell for years.