How to Drive to Amish Country from Columbus

Driving to Amish Country from Columbus offers more than just a scenic road trip—it’s a journey into a timeless way of life, where horse-drawn buggies glide down country roads, handcrafted furniture fills cozy shops, and fresh-baked pies line the counters of family-run bakeries. Located primarily in Holmes County and surrounding areas in eastern Ohio, Amish Country is one of the largest and most vibrant Amish communities in the world. For travelers departing from Columbus, the drive is both accessible and deeply rewarding, blending rural charm with cultural immersion.

Understanding how to navigate this route efficiently, respectfully, and safely enhances the experience significantly. Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a cultural exploration, knowing the best routes, timing, local customs, and hidden gems ensures your visit is seamless and memorable. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of how to drive to Amish Country from Columbus, complete with best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Plan Your Departure Time

Timing is critical when traveling to Amish Country. The region sees the highest volume of visitors on weekends, especially Saturdays, when local markets and shops are busiest. To avoid congestion and enjoy a more peaceful experience, aim to depart Columbus between 6:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. This allows you to arrive before mid-morning traffic builds up and gives you ample time to explore before afternoon crowds descend.

Additionally, consider the season. Spring and fall offer mild weather and vibrant landscapes, while summer brings longer daylight hours and peak tourist activity. Winter travel is possible but requires extra caution due to icy roads and limited daylight. Always check the weather forecast for both Columbus and Holmes County before departure.

Step 2: Choose Your Route

There are two primary routes from Columbus to Amish Country, each offering distinct advantages depending on your priorities: speed, scenery, or access to specific destinations.

Route A: I-71 North to US-23 North to OH-39 East (Fastest)

This is the most direct and time-efficient route, ideal for travelers prioritizing efficiency.

1. Start on I-71 North from downtown Columbus. Take this highway for approximately 50 miles until you reach the exit for US-23 North near Marysville.
2. Continue on US-23 North for about 30 miles until you reach the town of Mount Gilead.
3. Take the exit for OH-39 East toward Millersburg. This road will take you directly into the heart of Holmes County.
4. Follow OH-39 East for approximately 25 miles. You’ll pass through the towns of Berlin and Walnut Creek, both central hubs in Amish Country.
5. Arrival: You’ll enter the core of Amish Country by 9:30 a.m. if you left Columbus at 7:00 a.m.

This route is well-maintained and features clear signage. It’s recommended for first-time visitors who want to minimize driving time and maximize exploration.

Route B: US-33 East to OH-550 North to OH-39 East (Scenic and Cultural)

For travelers seeking a more immersive experience, this route winds through picturesque farmland and small towns with historic architecture.

1. From Columbus, take US-33 East toward Zanesville. This highway runs parallel to the Muskingum River and passes through rural landscapes dotted with barns and rolling hills.
2. After about 55 miles, turn north onto OH-550 near the town of New Concord.
3. Follow OH-550 North for 20 miles until it intersects with OH-39 East near the village of Malabar.
4. Turn left onto OH-39 East and continue for 20 miles into Berlin and Walnut Creek.

This route adds about 30–40 minutes to your drive but offers a richer sense of Ohio’s rural heritage. You’ll pass historic churches, antique stores, and roadside stands selling fresh produce—perfect for spontaneous stops.

Step 3: Prepare Your Vehicle

Before setting out, ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition:

• Check tire pressure and tread depth—country roads can be uneven, and some side roads are unpaved.
• Fill your gas tank in Columbus. Gas stations become sparse once you leave the highway, especially between Mount Gilead and Millersburg.
• Carry a portable phone charger. While cell service is generally reliable on major highways, it can weaken in valleys and rural areas.
• Bring a physical map or download offline maps via Google Maps or Apple Maps. GPS signals may occasionally drop in remote sections of OH-39.

Step 4: Navigate the Local Roads

Once you enter Holmes County, the landscape shifts dramatically. You’ll encounter narrow roads, slow-moving horse-drawn buggies, and limited signage. Here’s what to expect:

• Speed limits drop to 35 mph or lower on county roads. Always obey posted signs and watch for yellow diamond-shaped signs indicating slow-moving vehicles.
• Amish buggies have no lights or reflective markings, so drive cautiously at dusk and dawn.
• Do not pass a buggy unless it is safe and legal to do so. Wait for clear sightlines and wide shoulders.
• Many intersections lack traffic lights. Yield to buggies and be prepared to stop suddenly.

Use landmarks to navigate: Berlin’s historic mill, the Amish quilt shops along State Route 39, and the large white steeple of the Holmes County Courthouse in Millersburg are reliable reference points.

Step 5: Identify Your Destination Within Amish Country

Amish Country is not a single town but a region encompassing multiple communities. Decide where you want to focus your visit:

• Berlin: Known for its furniture factories, craft shops, and the Amish Country Welcome Center.
• Walnut Creek: Popular for its bakery district, including the famous Amish Baking Company and The Dutch Kitchen.
• Millersburg: The county seat with museums, historic churches, and the Holmes County Historical Society.
• Smicksburg: A quieter, more residential area ideal for photography and quiet walks.

Plan your first stop based on your interests. If you’re hungry, head to Walnut Creek. If you want to learn about Amish history, start in Millersburg. If you’re shopping for handmade goods, Berlin is your best bet.

Step 6: Park Strategically

Parking in Amish Country can be challenging during peak hours. Avoid parking directly in front of private homes or businesses without permission. Use designated lots:

• Amish Country Welcome Center (Berlin): Free parking with ample space.
• Walnut Creek Town Square: Metered parking on main streets; free on weekends after 5 p.m.
• Millersburg Courthouse Lot: Free and centrally located.

Many shops and restaurants offer validation for parking in adjacent lots. Always ask before leaving your vehicle.

Best Practices

Respect the Amish Way of Life

The Amish are a religious community that values simplicity, privacy, and separation from modern technology. As a visitor, your behavior directly impacts how welcoming the community remains to tourists.

• Do not take photos of individuals without permission. Many Amish people avoid being photographed due to religious beliefs.
• Never approach a buggy or attempt to interact with drivers or passengers unless they initiate conversation.
• Be mindful of noise. Loud music, shouting, or excessive use of car horns is disruptive.
• Do not trespass on farmland. Even if fields look empty, they are private property.
• Support local businesses. Buying directly from Amish-owned shops ensures your dollars benefit the community.

Drive with Patience and Awareness

Amish Country roads are not designed for high-speed travel. You’ll encounter:

• Slow-moving vehicles (buggies, tractors, wagons)
• Unmarked gravel roads leading to homes and workshops
• Children walking or biking to school
• Animals crossing the road (chickens, goats, cows)

Always reduce speed when approaching intersections or curves. Use your turn signals—even if no other cars are visible—to signal your intentions to buggies and pedestrians.

Plan Meals and Rest Stops

While Amish Country is rich in food options, many restaurants operate on limited hours and are closed on Sundays. Plan ahead:

• Breakfast: Try the Amish Breakfast at The Dutch Kitchen (Walnut Creek) or the Homestead Restaurant (Berlin).
• Lunch: The Amish Baking Company offers sandwiches and pies to-go, perfect for a picnic.
• Dinner: Reserve ahead at The Mill Restaurant (Millersburg) or The Old Mill Inn (Berlin).
• Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at the Welcome Center, Millersburg Library, and some gas stations. Carry tissues and hand sanitizer—many establishments use traditional outhouses or have limited facilities.

Bring Cash and Small Bills

Many Amish businesses do not accept credit cards. They rely on cash transactions for simplicity and privacy. Carry at least $100 in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20) for purchases, tips, and parking fees.

ATMs are available in Millersburg and Berlin, but they may be out of service during weekends or holidays. Withdraw cash before leaving Columbus.

Consider the Season and Events

Amish Country hosts seasonal events that can enhance your visit:

• Spring (April–May): Planting season; fields are green and quiet. Ideal for photography.
• Summer (June–August): Farmer’s markets, quilt shows, and buggy parades. Expect crowds.
• Fall (September–October): Harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and apple butter-making demonstrations.
• Winter (November–February): Quiet and serene. Fewer tourists, but some shops close early or on weekends.

Check the Holmes County Tourism website for event calendars before you go.

Tools and Resources

Navigation Apps

While GPS is helpful, rely on multiple sources:

• Google Maps: Use “Avoid Highways” mode for scenic routes. Download offline maps of Holmes County.
• Apple Maps: Offers detailed rural road coverage and real-time traffic alerts.
• Waze: Useful for spotting slow-moving vehicles reported by other drivers.

Printed Maps and Guides

Physical resources remain invaluable:

• Amish Country Visitor Guide: Available free at the Welcome Center in Berlin or downloadable at www.amishcountryohio.com.
• Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Maps: Provide detailed county road networks.
• Local Bookstores: The Book Nook in Berlin sells regional guides with walking tours and historical notes.

Weather and Road Condition Resources

Stay informed about conditions:

• Ohio Department of Transportation Trip Planner: odot.gov/tripplanner—real-time road closures and construction updates.
• NOAA Weather Forecast: Check for frost, fog, or ice advisories, especially in early morning hours.
• Local Radio: Tune into WOUB 105.1 FM (Athens) or WOUB 1340 AM (Morgantown) for regional traffic and weather.

Mobile Resources for Cultural Awareness

Download these free apps to deepen your understanding:

• Amish Culture Explorer: Audio guide with stories from local Amish families (available on iOS and Android).
• Ohio Historical Society App: Includes interactive maps of historic sites along your route.
• Google Translate: Useful if you encounter Pennsylvania Dutch phrases—many Amish speak this dialect.

Recommended Reading

For context before your trip:

• The Amish by Donald B. Kraybill
• Plain and Simple: A Woman’s Journey to the Amish by Sue Bender
• Amish Country: A Traveler’s Guide to Ohio by Linda L. Miller

Real Examples

Example 1: The Smith Family Weekend Trip

The Smiths, a family of four from Columbus, planned a Sunday outing to Amish Country in October. They left at 7:15 a.m. via Route A (I-71 to US-23 to OH-39). They arrived in Berlin by 8:45 a.m., parked at the Welcome Center, and visited the Amish Furniture Factory Tour. They bought a hand-carved rocking chair and a jar of apple butter.

At noon, they drove to Walnut Creek and ate lunch at The Dutch Kitchen, ordering the famous chicken pot pie and cinnamon rolls. Afterward, they walked the town square, observing buggies and children playing. They avoided taking photos of people but captured images of barns and fields.

They returned to Columbus by 4:30 p.m., arriving home by 5:45 p.m. The Smiths reported that the early start made all the difference—they avoided crowds, found parking easily, and felt respected by locals.

Example 2: Solo Traveler’s Cultural Immersion

Jamal, a history student from Columbus, traveled alone to Amish Country in May to research rural American traditions. He took Route B (US-33 to OH-550), spending extra time in small towns like Malabar and New Concord. He stopped at a roadside stand run by an Amish woman who sold fresh eggs and homemade jam. He paid in cash and thanked her in simple English.

At the Holmes County Historical Society in Millersburg, he reviewed archival photos of 19th-century Amish settlements. He visited a one-room schoolhouse and sat quietly for 20 minutes, observing the peaceful surroundings.

He noted: “I didn’t go to see ‘quaintness.’ I went to understand a way of life that chooses simplicity over convenience. The quietness of the roads, the absence of billboards, the rhythm of the day—it was humbling.”

Example 3: Photographer’s Journey

Lena, a professional photographer, visited Amish Country in late September to capture autumn landscapes. She avoided the main tourist corridors and drove side roads near Smicksburg. She used a telephoto lens to photograph barns and fields from a distance, never approaching people.

She parked at a public pull-off near the Holmes County Fairgrounds and waited for the morning light to hit the mist over the fields. She captured a stunning image of a buggy crossing a wooden bridge, with golden leaves swirling in the wind.

She shared her work in a local gallery exhibit titled “Stillness in Motion,” with proceeds donated to the Amish Education Fund.

FAQs

How far is Amish Country from Columbus?

Amish Country is approximately 85 to 100 miles from downtown Columbus, depending on your route. The drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the fastest route (I-71/US-23/OH-39) and up to 2 hours on scenic routes.

Can I drive through Amish Country on Sunday?

Yes, you can drive through Amish Country on Sunday, but many businesses are closed. The Amish observe Sunday as a day of rest and worship. You’ll see fewer buggies on the road, and most shops, restaurants, and markets will be shuttered. It’s a peaceful time to drive, photograph, and reflect—but avoid knocking on doors or trying to visit homes.

Are there restrooms in Amish Country?

Public restrooms are available at the Amish Country Welcome Center in Berlin, the Millersburg Public Library, and some gas stations along US-23. Many restaurants and shops have restrooms for customers. Always ask politely before using a facility.

Do I need a special permit to drive in Amish Country?

No special permit is required. Amish Country is open to the public. However, you must follow all traffic laws and respect private property. Driving off-road or entering farm fields is illegal and disrespectful.

What should I not do in Amish Country?

Avoid the following:

• Taking photos of people without permission
• Trying to photograph inside homes or barns
• Blaring music or honking your horn
• Offering rides to Amish individuals
• Asking personal questions about religion or lifestyle
• Leaving trash on roadsides or in parking lots

Is Amish Country wheelchair accessible?

Many shops and restaurants in Berlin and Walnut Creek are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and wide doorways. The Amish Country Welcome Center and Millersburg Courthouse have accessible restrooms. However, some historic buildings and side roads have uneven surfaces or steps. Contact individual businesses ahead of time to confirm accessibility.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas and many outdoor seating areas at restaurants. However, they are not permitted inside most shops, bakeries, or museums. Always keep your dog leashed and clean up after them. Some Amish families keep working dogs, so be respectful of animals on farms.

What’s the best time of year to visit?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are ideal. Weather is mild, crowds are manageable, and the landscape is stunning. Summer is lively but busy. Winter is quiet but may involve snow and ice. Avoid major holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends if you prefer fewer people.

How long should I spend in Amish Country?

A full day (8–10 hours) allows you to explore multiple towns and enjoy a meal. For a deeper experience, plan a weekend. Overnight stays are available in local inns, bed-and-breakfasts, and cabins—many run by Amish families.

Conclusion

Driving to Amish Country from Columbus is more than a logistical task—it’s an invitation to step outside the fast-paced modern world and into a community that values quiet, craftsmanship, and connection. The journey itself becomes part of the experience: the rhythm of the open road, the scent of fresh earth after rain, the distant clip-clop of hooves on pavement.

By following the step-by-step guide, adhering to best practices, utilizing the right tools, and respecting the culture you’re visiting, you transform a simple drive into a meaningful encounter. Whether you’re drawn by the food, the crafts, the landscape, or the philosophy of simplicity, Amish Country offers a rare glimpse into a life lived deliberately.

Remember: You are a guest in their world. Travel with humility, curiosity, and care. Leave no trace but footprints. Take only memories—and perhaps a jar of homemade jam or a hand-carved bowl to remind you of the stillness you found on the road from Columbus.

Plan your trip wisely. Drive safely. Listen more than you speak. And let the quiet of the countryside speak to you.