My 5 Best Amish Visitor's Tips (plus: Can I stay with the Amish?)

Planning to visit an Amish community? I give you my five best tips for having a great experience - including the best way to meet Amish when you're there. I also talk about whether it's possible to stay with the Amish, and share a couple ideas.
My name is Erik Wesner and I'm not Amish. Back in 2004, I met the Amish while selling books door-to-door. Since then, I've visited 5,000+ Amish homes & dozens of Amish communities. More: amishamerica.com/
Images: Don Burke (www.flickr.com/photos/ozarkin..., Jim Halverson, S.I.
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The site I mention in this video is www.amishfarmstay.com/. Note: I've never stayed with this business and I don't have any affiliation with them, but I became aware of them several years ago. Seems like an interesting option that might be worth a try. More: amishamerica.com/lancaster-co...

[@foty8679]

As a german i was fascinated with the Amish. And each day i feel like their way of life feels more and more correct. I try to visit America someday when the pandemic is over and meet some Amish.

[@SkywatcherSandra]

I hope you can visit soon. HUGS and GOD bless you 🤗

[@kevinknabe7252]

Number 6 should be no foul language. That's one of the fastest ways to prevent getting to know the Amish people or doing business in Amish businesses. Definitely no foul language around them.

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

You mean swearing etc.?

[@CentralVirginian1]

@@FrogeniusW.G. No God's name in vain, ie omg etc.

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

@@CentralVirginian1 Ok.. Counts "Oh my Gosh" too? (And what does that mean? Is Gosh" a word?.. (I'm not a native speaker.)) Thank you! ☆

[@brianpresley9634]

Kevin Knabe, people who were raised correctly treat everyone with that level of respect.

[@thevichar]

A former Pennsylvanian here , The main thing is you try if you happens to swear or anything similar just apologize and move on from it as quickly as you can.

[@stacyrussell460]

On a tour through Lancaster County years ago, the driver during a hayride had a lovely sense of humor. As we rode by a cemetery, the driver mentioned that no one living outside the area is allowed to be buried in that cemetery. I figured that makes sense if it's an Amish cemetery. Then he said "No, they can't be buried here because they're living" & I finally got the joke.

[@nicoleannkyle]

I live near the Arthur Amish Community in Illinois. When I first moved to the area I wasn’t sure how to act around them, now it’s easier. Having grown up in a farming community, I treat the buggies like tractors, stay behind at at least 2 car lengths and pass when it is safe. They are a beautiful culture and everyone I’ve met from the Arthur area are very friendly.

[@champaignken]

Beautiful area in Central Illinois.

[@janbair5764]

Your videos are the most accurate and informative regarding the Amish. I just visited Amish friends in Holmes and Wayne counties. I feel we are in "their " territory, so slow down, respect their life style. I leave my jewelry, nail polish, slacks, shorts and sleeveless tops at home. I wear skirts and t-shirts. I ask permission before taking pictures of anything, then show them the pictures. They like the scenery pictures, never take one of a person. They have a fun, clean sense of humor. There are many Amish variety stores to shop. Drive the backroads on Thursdays and you will probably find a wedding. Don't intrude, but looking from the road you will enjoy seeing the buggies, horses, bicycles, and wedding tent or trailer. Remember, they are regular people, they don't want to be stared at anymore than you do.

[@indianne9781]

We were visiting with an Amish family a couple of years ago when I saw a horse and buggy pulling a boat. Before I even thought about it I blurted out “well, THATS something you don’t see every day!” I was mortified, but they had a good laugh.

[@normagates9492]

Just Kidding L

[@TheShilohdad]

The oddest thing I have run across was in the Arthur, IL, area. We travel in an RV, and at one campground we came across not one, but two Amish families vacationing in a travel trailer. I asked the first gentleman if the trailer was rented. He said it belonged to his father-in-law. I asked if he he was not Amish, but was told he was. The second gentleman told me his trailer was owned by 2 of his sons. Oh, by the way, the two gentlemen were first cousins. By the way, both trailers were plugged into electricity, but only to charge the batteries, as the batteries that run the lighting, water pump and propane fridge controls won’t last more than a couple of days. No running the air conditioner or watching TV, though.

[@KameraShy]

I can still remember when ALL stores were closed on Sundays. Was the law. A few exceptions like pharmacies, restaurants and gas stations. Parking lots at the suburban malls were deserted.

[@leem200]

No overnight stores either. In my town most closed stores at 6 o clock accept grocery stores. Grocery stores closed at 9. Life was nicer back then. Same with stores accept grocery, gas stations, and pharmacy.

[@1Melody1963]

I wish this was still the way. We, as Americans, have lost so much to ‘progress’.

[@Chaos.Kraken]

There is a small Amish community where I grew up (Breckinridge County KY) and we always bought all of our furniture from their furniture store, we bought lots of groceries from their discount grocery store. And I remember on the weekends, the women would bring baked goods into town to sell. They would spend all Saturday in the Hardee's parking lot selling bread, pies, and other baked goods. As I young kid, I was just excited to see the horses 🤣

[@prettylady995]

What a nice memory Thanks for sharing I was picturing it all! Me too I remember seeing the buggies and horses was so exciting

[@SkywatcherSandra]

Thanks @Tabby Johnson for sharing your memories with us. HUGS and GOD bless us everyone 🕊

[@darlenestiteler9665]

I live in a Amish community in Clintonville, Pennsylvania I love it!! It is English and Amish. I am not Amish but have family that was. My family are from a different community that is in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. There are a few differences in the two separate groups. Mainly in clothing. They are wonderfully happy, personable group of people.

[@Lovetocamp]

There is an Amish bakery in Holmes County that rents cabins right behind their bakery. Very cute and cozy cabins. Has one large bed and a loft for sleeping. Also have a pot-belly stove for heat and small table and chairs. There is a large campfire pit. I took our youth girls from church years ago during the winter. They loved it! First time, for many of them, seeing Amish and hearing he clip-clop of the horses at night. So peaceful!

[@Strix07024]

I already dress modestly by default but when my husband and I visit our Old Order Mennonite neighbors and their many children, I do make it a point to dress even a little more modestly out of respect (long, high neckline dresses, no pants, hair pulled back). I am guilty of feeling anxious on meeting these wonderful people at first but after spending time with our OOM neighbors and being invited to a Beachy Amish church service, I’m much more comfortable around our Plain friends. They’re people just like us and it will become easier to relate to and strike up conversations with them when you find common ground and common interests. Keep the talk wholesome; no swearing or anything crass. For my husband and I, we discovered that church, family, agriculture, gardening, recipes, parenting and education of our children are all excellent, relatable topics to touch on. I have noticed (in general, not a hard and fast rule though) that the more progressive Plain groups are more open to conversing right off the bat with you, while the more conservative groups take some time to establish rapport with, though both ends of the spectrum have always ended up being warm and welcoming to us. ❤️

[@michellesunshinestar]

I was LDS (Mormon) for 10ish years. But I've always dressed modestly, no idea why. I'm 5'1 and feel comfortable in long pants, because I'm really short. The only thing I had to do to my clothing was buy a few skirts for church on Sunday. Mormons don't shop or buy anything on Sunday (Sabbath) either. Sometimes they'll work on Sunday, like if you work part time for a grocery store. But you are still expected to go to church. I had one person say they would work every other day on Sunday, I thought that was a good thing to tell your manager. We would have to make sure our cars were filled up on Saturday for Sunday.

[@lostinthemountains4794]

I love going out to belville and watching the buggies riding around all over the place. Wish I could of bought a place closer to Amish territory but I did manage to buy a 12 acre home though. Now if I can make some Amish friends so I can learn, help out on their farms, and help build buggies. Would love to build my own by my own hands.

[@donnamauck2146]

Don't forget to thank them for their time! You can also let them know what you may have particularly enjoyed that you bought from them. It may help them know what others might be interested in purchasing from them. Jams, bread or whatever.

[@WayneHarasym]

There’s a small Amish community near Ogdensburg NY. When I was there years back I saw an Amish man selling his produce in the Walmart parking lot, horse and buggy right there. In fact, Walmart and the Lowe’s across the street actually had a spot to tie up your horse. That was so cool to see!

[@BrVi_7]

That's pretty smart I'd take farm grown produce over what wal Mart sells 💯

[@joeanderson9431]

I grew up very similar to the Amish and have some Anabaptist in my ancestry but something my dad Instilled in me which comes from God himself is that if you want to be respected you must conduct yourself respectfully it's that simple

[@hillert1967]

AMEN! MY FAMILY WAS RAISED THE SAME!

[@effinxrightt]

Used to work in a small town gas station in the town I grew up in and we always got a lot of Amish men around lunch time who were out working for the day(a lot of the local Amish men specialize here in roofing). Some great guys, always very respectful and we even chatted a couple times. Apparently they enjoyed our service and friendliness so much that they brought us home made apple cinnamon bread from their homes one day during winter. I will say that if you haven’t spent time with anyone who works on a farm, you will need to control your face the first couple times you meet them. A lot of farmers and Amish farmers would come right off the farm without hosing their boots off and the smell can be very intense if you aren’t used to it lol. I can’t say if they noticed it but I certainly did, especially the dirty looks from other folks. I always made a point to thank them for their hard work on their farms when people holding their noses were near by.

[@toddcole1805]

In Michigan we have Amish communities in Homer and Vermontville. I have had many interactions with both all pretty much have been positive.

[@elvisjerrylee]

There are several Amish families in my area....I am always amazed at how they can walk around on basically any type of ground or terrain without shoes.

[@AmishAmerica]

It is impressive. And even while doing things in the barn like milking (can be kind of a messy activity if you know what I mean around all those cows)

[@emmib1388]

when you don't wear shoes , the bottom of your feet get thicker (the skin) .. if you have older relatives /friends....ask them what they did in the summer time ( the seniors in your life, that is) If they lived in the country or the suburbs, they probably spent a bit of their summers bare footed and then when school started, got a new pair of shoes for the year (yep -- one pair!)

[@angeliquelivezey2216]

My neighbors are currently training a new buggy horse. So they have 2 horses on a buggy frequently. The new horse is a 3 year old that will bolt in a heartbeat. But the other horse is pretty bomb proof. I don't think anything phases him.

[@MsTinkerbelle87]

“Don’t show your shoulders!” That was the weirdest but best advice I ever got.

[@SomewhereInIndiana1816]

I love the Amish shops around Shipshewanna in northern Indiana!! 😊👍

[@glutenfreejoe6099]

The Lancaster County Amish Markets here in Maryland are wonderful friendly and I have talked to many Amish over the years. Great videos about the Amish. Always being respectful is key always.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thanks! Those markets can be a lot of fun, also there's one quite near MD in York County PA (Markets at Shrewsbury) which is quite nice. My friends used to have a stand there

[@SkywatcherSandra]

Hi Eric 👋 and everyone. New friend here of your channel today. Very informative and helpful video. Thank you for sharing your tips hugs and GOD bless us everyone. Prayers appreciated for my bile duct cancer diagnosis recently spread to stomach and lymph nodes and pancreas. HUGS. 🙏

[@AmishAmerica]

Prayers for you Sandra, happy you found us and wishing you good things🙏

[@SkywatcherSandra]

@@AmishAmerica thank you for your kindness 🙏

[@lesliekendall5668]

The way I met my first German Baptist friend (which isn't easy because if you've noticed, the women tend to not make eye contact) I was in a store and I said to her, "I envy you.". Her smile lit up the room and she was so curious to know why. We've been best friends now for over a decade. I met a few Amish as they would come to our meeting house when they were traveling.

[@sandydaniels2668]

I go to the Ky/Tn border for visits with family and see a lot of Amish people. It's scary how drivers can be so disrespectful regarding safety. I live in the country with lots of neighbors who ride horses and you never know how easy a horse can get spooked. 3-4 miles per hour is fine with me

[@SarahlabyrinthLHC]

I don't live near any Amish but when I was learning to drive a car I was taught always to slow right down when there was someone with a horse riding on the roadside, to pass carefully and slowly and never do any sudden maneuvers or tooting the horn or anything which might scare the horse, also to keep as much distance from the horse as possible. It's only sensible, as horses can spook easily at times.

[@southernwanderer7912]

It amazes me that the areas where there are a lot of Amish don't set up separate lanes on the sides of the roads for the Amish buggies. That just seems like common sense to me. Great information in this video, by the way.

[@AmishAmerica]

Glad you liked it! Some places have buggy lanes but mainly just on the main roads. Unfortunately the cost is pretty big to put those in, which limits where they can go. And in some places it is not really possible due to the layout of the land and the road. I have seen some impromptu dirt lanes here and there used by Amish near main roads, but they are pretty short and limited.

[@michellesunshinestar]

Yes, be careful on the road. When we are in Hocking Hills area sometime, we will see the sign with a buggy, and that means to slow down.

[@fredericktownhomestead8094]

Driving the Amish when they go further than their horse and buggies will take them is a great way to get to know them and to be invited to stay with them. I have visited hundreds of Amish communities and prefer to stay in an Amish home over a motel.

[@rogersheddy6414]

Closed on Sunday used to be across the board. That is one of the changes from my childhood that I lament deeply.

[@craigbathurst1185]

I had a Amish Roofing crew replace my roof at a very reasonable price in Lancaster County Pennsylvania.

[@janedoe805]

I love going to Amish Communities, l have only gone to Lancaster, PA. I love buying their beautiful Quilts and some Furniture too.

[@barbc7698]

Yes, I leave my tank tops and shorts at home if I go to an Amish neighbor's home. If we are going to be doing some food related activity, I cover my hair thoroughly. I helped with a butchering a time or two.

[@miraclefarm1927]

Great video! You are so very right about how you dress. Dress as you want because as you said they are use to seeing the English, but if you really want to get to know them it's a respect thing. Just a couple of examples that most people wouldn't think about. Men's modestly is just as important as woman's. T-shirt and shorts is immodest. Men dress in two layers just like the women. Advertisements on clothing is drawing attention to that advertiser and away from God. Loud bright colors bring attention to self. Anything to keep hair under control is appreciated and leave your jewelry at home. I am by no means saying you have to dress this way to visit their places of business. I'm just adding to the great advice in the video about meeting and talking to them in more than a hello. Blessings

[@rjladd2787]

I live in Clare County north central MI. I get all my summer produce from Amish farm stands, and baked treats on Saturday.

[@patsysingletary6585]

I love the Amish people, they like to be treated with respect and consideration just like you and i.

[@Eagle-zl4gz]

My son and I are making the drive today to homes county from Cincinnati Ohio we visit the Amish folks several times a year . This will be our second time this year. We love it. They are the most kind loving people.millers bakery is always a must visit. There is so much to learn from the Amish. We also love shopping at the most secluded shops. And of course the food is amazing! If your looking for a great Amish conversation with the Amish while visiting the Dairy Queen seems like a great place for us. Just be normal because they are normal if there’s a such thing lol.

[@murp61]

I was in Cincinnati until mid-Oct (I'm in Middletown now). Hope to make the drive to Holmes County this summer or autumn. A co-worker of mine at a previous job visited there and had a great time. I never been in that part of Ohio before.

[@philippbock3399]

Most Americans will be very surprised to hear that in Germany (and other European countries) usually most of the shops are closed on Sundays, too. There are some exceptions: Gas stations and bakerys where you can buy rolls or bread at Sunday morning and, of course, restaurants, hotels and hospitals. Doctors and pharmacies have a special emergency service you can read in your daily newspaper which pharmacy/doctor in your town offers such a service ... So as a German I wouldn't feel disturbed when visiting an Amish community and everything would be closed on a Sunday :-) What an interesting video! Many Greetings from Bavaria, Philipp

[@SandyPietschmann-fl6dv]

I don't know if you're reading this after two years, but there's another exception here in Germany: in large railway stations or nearby, shops are also open on Sundays (and public holidays). - But this can vary, some are open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, others "only" from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. 🙂

[@timcogan8813]

I travel thru Holmes county back roads to see my sister in miller’s burg. Almost every trip i see a buggy and car wreck. Sightseers cause a lot of accidents, and local non Amish do not respect the roads.

[@annapaterno4180]

I live in Scottsdale Az so we don’t see Amish people but would love to learn their ways. Thank you for all the info in the videos, I do appreciate it so much.

[@lindahuckabee9169]

I live down south but did grow up on a farm, we raised pigs and chickens. Raised our own food and canned and later own. Blanching vegetables and freezing. When we got a freezer. That was in the Texas plains.

[@tamedshrew235]

If anyone is planning on visiting Philadelphia I highly recommend a trip to the Reading Market near the Convention Center downtown. You will find many Amish produce, bakery and butchers who travel daily from Lancaster to the market and are considered regular vendors. Here English interact with Amish in natural ways not like tourists. Many, many other wonderful stands and eateries- you wont be disappointed. Be sure to get an Amish hard pretzel- best ever.

[@ronda9317]

I would love to visit the amish and support their businesses and eat their food.

[@proprintct7183]

We are going to use Amish Farm Stay! This is so amazing! Thank you. :)

[@AmishAmerica]

If you get a chance let us know how you liked it!

[@proprintct7183]

@Amish America it won't be until next year, but yes, we will! Thank you for all the videos; you have given us a love for the Amish and we can't wait to visit!

[@wendybird5104]

Very good tips, basically…. Be respectful, and be kind !

[@deetngator4191]

I even get shocked by the way folks dress in downtown Nashville Tennessee nowadays. I don't wear Sunday best anymore but I do dress modest and neatly

[@deetngator4191]

I have seen many buggy/ car wrecks. I wear my hair braided or on a bun. . I respect the Amish people very much. I had offers for my mustang as a courting horse as he was quite flashy, black roan with white markings. The young men like flashy for dating. Courting horses change hands often as once married. They go to the plain bays, sorrels and common colors

[@emmib1388]

people have no respect for themselves or others when they go out in public half-dressed. Not everyone needs/wants to see certain body parts on others....

[@debbimeyersbrant5752]

And I hear in Meyersdale the only thing that's open on Sunday is the Sheetz store Fox's Pizza and Thomas's drug store is open until 1. I go to the Amish Springs Market and I always wear pants or long skirt, being where I'm at I shop at the Amish stores and my late husband and I used to go to Mark's harness shop lot to get leather goods like wallets and things like that they do have that in there. And I used to go to a little store outside of Springs to get belts and stuff for the tractors

[@grh7britton405]

Here in Lancaster County we have two of the BEST farmers markets in the world with most populated by Amish, Green Dragon on Fridays and Roots on Tuesdays. I got to know many Amish there and they are the NICEST, grounded people you ever want to meet. So much so that I developed a crush on one Amish young lady. The feeling was mutual but we knew it would cause much trouble with her family and community so we didn't go any further with it. That was five years ago and I miss her to this day. Still, I have a very special affinity for the Amish.

[@SkywatcherSandra]

Is Roots the name of the place? Looking forward to visiting the area soon. Thanks

[@marcellacoblentz8433]

An Amish person in Holmes County told us it is always the locals who cause the traffic accidents.

[@miriamkoch5151]

Very helpful tips! Thank you

[@marshaannswaggerty8608]

My daughters and I took a wonderful trip to Lancaster, Pa in the summer of 2020. We were able to converse and immerse ourselves with some fine Amish families while visiting. I was very surprised at how angry local drivers became when I would refuse to pass a buggy filled with Amish family members while approaching a blind crest of a hill. On the flip side, we were with a group that had paid for Amish home tours and before we left to go on the tour one couple paid and was informed the female was not appropriately dressed and asked if she had another top to wear and the lady became very offended and they went ahead and let them through. Short shorts and a very exposed cleavage! Why did they let them go on the tour?? I wanted to hide my own girls' eyes!! The Amish were very sweet and kind to our group even though this woman paraded around in front of their children. Even worse, there was a question/answer session and that same rude couple asked the gentleman why they had so many children and didn't they know about or use contraceptive! The poor man didn't know what they meant so the couple explained - much to the embarrassment of the Amish father and the humiliation of our group! The Amish father looked my way and I mouthed the words "I'm so sorry!" His face was red from being asked such a rude, personal question!! We had a wonderful time despite this couple, but I don't understand such rudeness! I'm surprised those folks are so welcoming to outsiders! Those folks should never been allowed on the tour to begin with!

[@nagammahill7886]

How awful for that poor man. I wonder what on earth made those people want to even go on the tour if they didn't have a basic respect or courtesy for them.

[@marshaannswaggerty8608]

@@nagammahill7886 I've wondered that same thing. I feel that it really should go without saying, but I think the tour guides should make it clear that any questioning of such a personal nature is prohibited as well as inappropriate dress. And it should be prevented before it even starts. I supposed getting paid was the motive for allowing them through.

[@emmib1388]

@@nagammahill7886 they probably thought they (the Amish) were ignorant and like many today - the 'guests' thought they knew better -- they have no class because if they did, they would have been respectful when they visited someone else's home by dressing appropriate for the activity and not being nosey -- but then again, in today's social media world, people today think because they don't keep anything personal, everyone else should reveal all.

[@majimespirit8421]

@@nagammahill7886 Woke folk trying to school the Amish! 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@hillert1967]

THEM PEOPLE ARE VERY RUDE AND DISRESPECTFUL... AND I WOULD HAVE SAID SOMETHING TOO!!

[@crazy-eyedreseller]

Quite a few years ago, I lived in eastern OH (Wintersville) but worked in Columbus quite a bit. I would often take the back way to Cambridge because the drive was so pretty. While there are no Amish communities on that route, theee must be a few living in the area. One early morning, I’m getting pretty close to Cambridge and coming around a very sharp turn on a two lane road. I see this red light, very dim, way out in front of me. But it wasn’t way out! It was an Amish buggy being pulled by a horse. While I was only going 50 or less due to the sharp curve, I still had to jerk the wheel to the right and get in the other lane. Luckily, nothing was coming from the other direction but it was so close. I’ve always been grateful that I didn’t hit them for their sake and mine.

[@AmishAmerica]

Glad it came out okay for you there, and thanks for sharing this - these real stories like yours make the points well. I think this can happen especially with some of these smaller off-the-beaten-path communities - people have no idea there are Amish in the area and might be passing through via an alternate route. Thankfully most areas have buggy warning signs, but those can be missed and they're not on every single road Amish travel on (far from it).

[@lesliekendall5668]

A buggy is no worse than experiencing a hour long traffic jam or driving home after work in a large city. People just need to chill.

[@yourhighnesspotatoelord3695]

Thank you for your video. Great advice regarding slowing down in Amish country. Safety first. I respect the Amish community.

[@Monica-gj2yx]

My desire would be to learn (a takeaway) how I can improve my community.

[@ulrichvonliechtenstein6138]

Of the beaten path communities are a lot more interesting than the super commercialized places

[@AmishAmerica]

I think that's often true. Might make a good point on a follow-up video actually.

[@terryangell7595]

Great video!

[@paultanner2007]

I’m really enjoying your videos and content! Thank you for sharing!

[@kimfleury]

Oh hey! 1,000th like! I didn't expect that. I've never been the milestone "Like." Anyway this list is very nice. I really can't think of anything to add, or ask. Tbh the only time I've been around Amish was when they were customers at the department store where I worked, and at the train station when I was there to drop off or pick up my son, back when he preferred taking the train over flying. At the train station they spoke their Deutsch, so I didn't interfere or butt in, I just smiled and nodded.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thanks KA - train/bus stations often do make for a decent chance to see Amish travelers!

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

No. 4 "Sunday is not a shopping day". ..Well, quite used to that one. Greetings from Germany.. 😅

[@AmishAmerica]

I had heard that is the way of things in Germany as well, and you're not even Amish:)

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

@@AmishAmerica Yes, I think that's "basic christian" in some way, and since Germany is not a secularistic state, where politics and religion are segregated, it's applied here that way..

[@bigbarkingdog2010]

Excellent video. Great content & presentation. Wonderful series. Well done. Strong video and decent audio. What equipment do you use ? Thumbs up. Please keep producing and sharing. Good man.

[@Stall-FedCalves]

Yes, since I've really been living a holy (set apart) lifestyle unto the Lord, I'm struck by how people dress, how revealing..

[@ddee51-g2g2]

I am an older woman of the brown complexion and very friendly to everyone wherever I go. But I noticed that when I visit an Amish stand or store, the people (most women and few teens) working are very standoff-ish to me but not to the customers of their same complexion. I am dressed in respectful manner also. I've watched their interactions with other ethnicity so I'll go up and asked a reasonable question and get a different, stale, blank response ..when they were just chatty and very helpful to that other person which makes me not spend my money there. .. i feel a customer is a customer (unless someone is being rude), money spends the same, we breathe, bleed and die a like -human beings. Question: Do they feel some type of way towards people of color.?! I live in Cecil County Maryland and there's many I'd like to frequent but several have left a sour taste for me.

[@phishlipsable]

i really hope this channel would address this question! i pass much more easily, so i don't feel my interactions are stiled/different from other white folks. this is a question of journalistic integrity! this query can be presented matter of factly. this information is relevant to so many people, tourists, locals, ect, and i want to see this topic covered. on a similar note, wikipedia even has a page on anabaptist-jewish relations- antisemitism is expected (in all groups of people) but can you speak to anything specifically that you've observed (even if you didn't recognize the observation at the time)? there are more mennonites and bruderhof and hutterites online compared to amish, and the mennonites are the only group i can find willing to attempt partial reconciliation with the dissonance between nonviolence and active participation in the holocaust. sure this topic is wild and big, but the implication of ~it all~ important to so many people. aint just coincidence germans/amish/mennonites/anabaptists fled to south america and have robust and growing communities!

[@ethanrepine8862]

I work at Walmart and I have noticed over the years that Amish kids are the best behaved children by a long shot. Then again walking around any Walmart and not seeing a kid "blowing their top" is almost like getting hit by lightening twice, not often.

[@AmishAmerica]

And I think the gap between typical Amish kids' and non-Amish kids' behavior may be increasing, sadly.

[@ethanrepine8862]

@@AmishAmerica It certainly is true, sadly.

[@sterlingholobyte]

I noticed this too when I used to work at a grocery store long ago. The kids were always well-behaved and were never whining about wanting this or that. Another thing I noticed - because I used to bag and carry out their groceries - was the amazing number of full bags that the Amish could pack into those little trunks in their buggies. And this was before plastic bags became a thing.

[@James-te2ny]

And don't just start taking pictures of them unless you ask if there ok with it. I have many Amish Friends once you get to know them there awesome people

[@nancyl3843]

Are you familiar with Homer, Michigan? There is a wonderful Amish community there--wonderful grocery store and bakery and general store. Highly recommended.

[@pamelagay3303]

I live here in Amish Country Ohio.

[@living4himga]

I live in Southeast Georgia and I have always been intrigued with the Amish. I feel they are living as God wants us to live. I hope to visit an Amish community with in the year. I would love to visit and support their businesses. WHERE is the closest community with a a lot of shops that I can spend several days visiting.

[@lindahuckabee9169]

I haven't visited up North but had seen Menonites in my city shopping.

[@rogersheddy6414]

Don't try to say it's just locals "who are impatient." It's actually most often someone who is very old, typically, someone who's 82 to 93. The most recent one I had heard about in which all the occupants of the buggy were killed by a woman who was 67 years old and went wide around a curve. They were in the opposite lane.

[@Stall-FedCalves]

Erik, you're very well spoken, good vocabulary. Handsome face too.

[@jeremywentworth1833]

Regarding Buggys are they involved in alot of accidents due to being badly lite, obviously the yellow Buggys will help or don't they really go out in the dark, I'm surprised that they aren't made to have far more powerful lights.

[@jamesmills9240]

A Chevy "bow tie" on the back of one of the buggies at 10:00 min. LOL

[@zacktube100]

I still think that a pack of bicycles is worse than getting stuck behind a buggy.

[@michellesunshinestar]

Laurelville OH I think has a great pie place.

[@GenderSkins]

There is a small Amish community here in Central Texas, and one thing I would say as a tip, is don’t try to make a pass at someone that is Amish or even a Mennonite. They just don’t seam to take kindly to you saying something like: Hey toots, what’s a gal like you doing tonight?

[@mrbubetube]

2:28 yep, Arianna's Bakery even has a website and they take credit cards. very New World English!

[@BSIII]

Aww man, I'd love to buy some fresh produce and pastries.

[@RetreatfarmFarmvilleVirginia]

I'm the last remaining male from the Stuarts draft va. order living in Maine now but moving back to North Carolina area soon and you would be surprised at the foul language especially the Taking of the Lord's name in vain that many visitors casually use. It is the quickest way to end a conversation and also the quickest way to be shown the exit door in our businesses. We have to close the business and have prayers to cleanse the spirits left behind from those people before we can reopen.

[@davidgood1441]

Which community? We're in Easton but originally from Goods Mill in va. Small world.

[@thehangmansdaughter1120]

My Grandfather said I must always give way to a buggy. Horses can be startled, leading to accidents.

[@shcheerchic1011]

It’s so interesting how you have a slightly Amish accent yet have never been Amish. You have the very hard Rs and their type of “o” sounds

[@phishlipsable]

i recon this man is firmly raised in south central pa

[@SKBottom]

What are some of the best communities relatively close to Louisville, Kentucky for visiting? I'm not necessarily talking about touristy, but with opportunities to get to know them on a little more personal level.

[@zacktube100]

Where is the Shady Hillside store? The best that I could determine is Hinton, WV. I was driving toward Alderson once and saw a horse and buggy.

[@mwatkins0590]

I dont think locals in particular are necessarily getting impatient with the amish. there are just more locals around more often, and someone going so much slower than the speed limit is bound to catch someone who isnt paying attention off guard. so it makes sense that people who are around this area all the time are mostly the ones in these accidents.

[@rogersheddy6414]

Sometimes feel like I should put a little intercom on my car so that I can tell the buggy driver to slow down when I see hes going over ten miles per hour. I really feel bad for those horses.

[@proprintct7183]

Erik, Can you please tell me the best time to visit Lancaster County; when it is not full tourist season, but there are still things to do and see? Can't wait for our Amish Farm Stay!

[@AmishAmerica]

I would probably try to go in autumn in that case, past the summer season (Sep-Oct) and should be beautiful with the harvest, pumpkins etc. I was just there in spring. I like it in all seasons actually, but summer should probably be your peak tourist time

[@pvjohnson52]

Thanks for sharing. Do the Amish in their own way celebrate Christmas?

[@AmishAmerica]

Yes they do, and like with anything Amish there is usually variety. They exchange gifts, but (*generally) no Santa Claus or Christmas tree (however, in some of the more progressive homes, you might see some Christmas decorations outside the home, for example amishamerica.com/amish-home-exterior-decor-14-photos/). Amish children in some schools will do a Christmas program, something like skits and a play. They exchange Christmas cards. A while back on the site we had an Amish guest poster from Ohio who shared about how her family celebrates: amishamerica.com/5-ways-the-amish-celebrate-christmas/

[@catreader9733]

I like "clip clop" pace. Calling it a walking pace would be much duller.

[@Akiralsdr]

i started searching more about the amish after the episode of x-files, and after the video of a youtuber called Peter Santenello, i saw that their lifes are not that diferent from anybody else

[@wendyzimmerman6002]

I love the Amish I buy vegetables all summer long I see the shock on their faces caused by immodest dress it’s so sad I love 1 hour away from Lancaster PA I love north of Lancaster Green dragon farm market is a neat place to meet Amish

[@janecarolhogue3140]

When I grew up places were closed in our community (English) yes don't wear shorts and revealing tops

[@lelandrentz755]

Can you run us through a typical Sunday ,do they have some sort of recreation ,take naps ,or go fishing ?

[@AmishAmerica]

My 2nd video ever 🙂- Amish Sunday activities (besides church): kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3OnoGt9o6yoo7s

[@kathkwilts]

Closing on Sunday can be really hard to deal with when you’re traveling. We once were unable to buy food on a Sunday and went hungry...

[@ThePanda5001]

all the supermarkets (as well as all the other shops) round my grandma's way used to be closed on a sunday up until recently (she lives in the Netherlands), so she had to jolly well make sure that if she needed anything for over the weekend, she went to the supermarket or whichever shop she needed to go to on Saturday to make sure she at least had enough of whatever it is to tide her over until at least Monday. used to be the same here in the UK up until about 25- 30 years ago that everything was shut on a Sunday. I do agree though, it can sometimes be hard if you're travelling and desperately need something.

[@mq5276]

Awww. Poor babies!

[@awakenergaming]

If that's hard to deal with I suggest you work on yourself a bit. The majority of westerners have enough reserves to where they could go weeks easily without any food, or at least would be able to if not for other self induced bad health factors/imbalances. Besides, its healthy to fast, a huge list of health benefits.

[@emmib1388]

next time you go on a trip, invest in a cooler and some ice and you can bring your food along with you -- and/or purchase some non perishable items -- people have been doing that for centuries -- It may not be what you are accustomed to doing, but it works :-)

[@kathkwilts]

@@mq5276 diabetic babies.

[@VomBethel]

We live in South Florida, and planned to visit the Amish community on the West Coast when the Amish Snowbirds are here in a few months. It's usually warm here in Florida even in the Winter months. Are short pants OK? Assume tank tops are not. Hopefully T-shirts are good since I see the young men wearing short sleeved shirts (covers about the same amount of skin).

[@AmishAmerica]

The Amish in FL are pretty laid back overall, maybe more than anywhere else. It's Florida and Amish are there for the sun too. Despite what I say in this video, I wouldn't worry too much in that community in particular, as long as it's not over the top. Shorts should be fine

[@SirShoddrick]

Germany shuts down on Sundays as well except emergency services, and maybe a few select gas stations. Where did the Anabaptist come from again??

[@emmib1388]

Germany and surrounding countries...

[@Stall-FedCalves]

Hmm, somewhat surprising... When Saturday is technically the 7th/sabbath day.

[@mkeller18]

10:01 is that a Chevy logo? That's unexpected.

[@lesliekendall5668]

Anyone my age can remember ALL towns being closed up on Sunday.

[@emmib1388]

and some of us still choose to observe Sunday rest even though the stores are open :-)

[@SarahlabyrinthLHC]

Saturdays too, where I come from. Sadly, no longer. There is not time off to spend and relax with family any more.

[@VictorRook]

You are so damn handsome, Erik. Aside from that, I wrote a book called "In Search of Good Times," and learned so much about the Amish in Ohio. Had a narrator do the voices for the audiobook. I love the simple life of the Amish, and I think that is what draws people to it.

[@Ggdivhjkjl]

Where can one learn how to operate a buggy?