Indiana is home to one of the largest Amish populations in the United States, with over 50,000 Amish people living in 22 counties. The Amish are a religious group that follows a simple and traditional way of life, rejecting modern technology and conveniences. One of the most important aspects of their culture is their farming, which they have practiced for centuries with minimal changes. The Amish are known for their organic and sustainable farming methods, which respect the land, the animals, and the environment. They also produce high-quality products, such as furniture, crafts, cheese, and baked goods, using their own skills and resources.
If you want to learn more about the Amish culture and farming, you can visit some of the Amish farms in Indiana, which offer a variety of experiences for visitors. You can take a tour of the farm and the home, see how the Amish work and live, interact with the animals, taste the delicious food, and even buy some of the products. In this article, we will introduce you to the top 10 Amish farms in Indiana, each with its own unique features and attractions.
1. Yoder’s Amish Home
Yoder’s Amish Home is located in Shipshewana, a town that is famous for its Amish community and attractions. Yoder’s Amish Home is an authentic Amish farm that has been in the family for four generations. You can take a guided tour of the farm and the home, and see how the Amish live without electricity, phones, or cars. You can also learn about their farming practices, such as plowing with horses, milking cows, and making butter. Yoder’s Amish Home also has a petting zoo, where you can feed and pet the animals, such as goats, sheep, chickens, and rabbits. You can also visit the gift shop, where you can buy some of the Amish-made products, such as quilts, rugs, baskets, and jams. For more information, you can contact Yoder’s Amish Home via phone at (260) 768-4887.
2. Miller’s Buggy Line
Miller’s Buggy Line is located in Middlebury, a town that is known for its scenic countryside and Amish heritage. Miller’s Buggy Line offers a unique way to experience the Amish culture and farming by taking a horse-drawn buggy ride through the rural landscape. You can see the Amish farms, schools, and homes, and learn about their history and traditions from the friendly and knowledgeable drivers. The buggy ride also includes a stop at an Amish farm, where you can enjoy a homemade cookie and a glass of lemonade, and chat with the Amish family. You can also see their barn, garden, and animals, and learn about their daily chores and activities. For more information, you can contact Miller’s Buggy Line via phone at (574) 825-5127.
3. Amish Acres
Amish Acres is located in Nappanee, a town that is rich in history and culture. Amish Acres is a historic Amish farm that dates back to 1839, and has been preserved as a tourist attraction. You can explore the 80-acre farm, and see the original buildings, such as the house, the barn, the smokehouse, and the schoolhouse. You can also watch demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as quilting, broom making, and candle dipping, and learn about the Amish beliefs and values. Amish Acres also has a restaurant, where you can savor a hearty meal of Amish-style dishes, such as fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and apple pie. Amish Acres also has a playhouse, where you can watch Broadway-style musicals and plays, such as The Sound of Music and Fiddler on the Roof. For more information, you can contact Amish Acres via phone at (800) 800-4942.
4. Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park
Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park is located in Shipshewana, and is a part of an Amish farm that raises and breeds exotic animals. You can visit the animal park, and interact with over 300 animals, including rare and endangered species, such as camels, zebras, kangaroos, and lemurs. You can also take a safari tour, which is a wagon ride that takes you through the farm and lets you see the animals up close. You can feed and pet the animals, and learn about their habitats and behaviors. Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park also has a gift shop, where you can buy souvenirs and snacks. For more information, you can contact Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park via phone at (260) 768-7750.
5. Eash Sales
Eash Sales is located in Shipshewana, and is a traditional Amish farm that specializes in handmade furniture and crafts. You can visit the store, and see the craftsmen at work, creating furniture using old-fashioned tools and techniques. You can also browse the store, and see the variety of products, such as chairs, tables, cabinets, and beds, made from different types of wood, such as oak, cherry, and maple. Eash Sales also has a bakery, where you can buy homemade pies, bread, and other baked goods, made with fresh ingredients and recipes. For more information, you can contact Eash Sales via phone at (260) 768-4162.
6. Borkholder Dutch Village
Borkholder Dutch Village is located in Nappanee, and is a village of shops that sell Amish-made furniture and crafts. You can visit the village, and see the craftsmen at work, and learn about their skills and methods. You can also shop for a variety of products, such as rocking chairs, clocks, lamps, and toys, made from quality materials and designs. Borkholder Dutch Village also has a restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious meal of Amish-style dishes, such as meatloaf, noodles, and pie. For more information, you can contact Borkholder Dutch Village via phone at (574) 773-4188.
7. Bonneyville Mill County Park
Bonneyville Mill County Park is located in Bristol, and is a historic Amish farm that has been turned into a park. You can visit the park, and see the mill that was built in 1837, which is still operational today. You can also see how the mill produces flour, cornmeal, and animal feed, using water power and stone grinding. Bonneyville Mill County Park also has hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking areas, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the park. For more information, you can contact Bonneyville Mill County Park via phone at (574) 535-6458.
8. The Cheese Shoppe
The Cheese Shoppe is located in Shipshewana, and is an Amish farm that produces artisanal cheeses. You can visit the cheese shop, and see how the cheese is made from fresh milk and natural ingredients. You can also sample a variety of flavors, such as cheddar, swiss, and gouda, and buy some of the cheese to take home. The Cheese Shoppe also sells other Amish-made products, such as jams, jellies, and baked goods, that go well with the cheese. For more information, you can contact The Cheese Shoppe via phone at (260) 768-4628.
9. Menno-Hof
Menno-Hof is located in Shipshewana, and is a museum that tells the story of the Amish and Mennonite faith and culture. You can visit the museum, and see the exhibits and displays that explain the history and beliefs of the Amish and Mennonite people, from their origins in Europe to their settlement in America. You can also see the replicas of an Amish house, a meetinghouse, and a school, and learn about their daily life and practices. Menno-Hof also has a gift shop, where you can buy books, DVDs, and souvenirs that relate to the Amish and Mennonite culture. For more information, you can contact Menno-Hof via phone at (260) 768-4117.
10. Rise’n Roll Bakery
Rise’n Roll Bakery is located in Middlebury, and is an Amish bakery that is famous for its donuts and pastries. You can visit the bakery, and smell the aroma of freshly baked goods, such as cinnamon rolls, apple fritters, and pies. You can also taste the donuts, which are coated with a special glaze and sprinkled with nuts, coconut, or chocolate. Rise’n Roll Bakery also sells other Amish-made products, such as cheese, butter, and honey, as well as coffee and tea. For more information, you can contact Rise’n Roll Bakery via phone at (574) 825-4032.
These are the top 10 Amish farms in Indiana that you can visit to experience the Amish culture and farming. Each farm offers a different and memorable experience, and you can learn a lot from the Amish people and their way of life. You can also enjoy the delicious food and the beautiful scenery, and buy some of the products to take home. If you are looking for a unique and educational trip, you should definitely check out these Amish farms in Indiana.
