A Magical Winter Weekend Getaway to Ohio Amish Country
Head to the center of Ohio Amish Country and experience the magic of the holidays. An ideal retreat for couples who want to get away, relax, and explore together. We escaped on a three day getaway to Ohio Amish Country in a collaboration with Shrpa.
We’ve highlighted our favorite spots and adventures during our mini vacation. Ideally, our itinerary will help make your job easier if you’re planning to visit Ohio.
Rolling hills, Amish buggies, made-from-scratch food and a slower pace is what you may envision when you visit this area in Northeastern, Ohio. You will, most definitely, find all this, but it’s really only the tip of the iceberg. We were pleasantly surprised by all there was to see and do, especially during the winter months. From beautiful hikes at Mohican State Park, viewing a Christmas holiday play, visiting a working Amish farm, and Christmas shopping, we had our fill of fun holiday activities.
What to Do in Ohio Amish Country this Christmas Season
1. Watch a Christmas Play at Ohio Star Theater and Dine
Ohio Star Theater offers entertainment for the whole family. During the holidays the theater has your classic Christmas favorites, from The Nutcracker to It's a Wonderful Life. Located in Dutch Valley, this beautiful facility has live musicals, concerts, comedy acts, and other holiday special events every year. Thankfully we had perfect timing to view the Christmas play, It’s a Wonderful Life Radio Play. We settled in comfy seats for a trip back in time. The actors were superb and this nostalgic holiday play brought tears to my eyes. You are definitely in for a treat! Head next door to Dutch Valley for a delish meal afterwards.
2. Dine on an Authentic Amish Meal at Dutch Valley
Craving mashed potatoes piled high, fried chicken, smoked ham, warm bread, and Amish noodles, you'll get your fill at Dutch Valley. Serving Amish-style food, the restaurant prides itself on its hearty, made from scratch food in a family-friendly setting.
Attached to each other is the Dutch Valley Restaurant and Bakery, as well as, a market across the way. Der Dutchman products of apple butter, cheeses, meats and other goods can be purchased in the market. Afterwards, head to the bakery for delicious baked goods and grab a coffee to go. In my opinion, the Peanut Butter Cream Pie and a Buckeye Latte were the perfect pairing.
3. Find the Perfect Decorations at Tis the Season
Shop at Tis the Season, largest Christmas store in Ohio
Surround yourself with Christmas spirit with music, lights and shopping at Tis the Season, the largest Christmas store in Ohio. Just the festive ambiance alone is worth a visit this holiday season. As you peruse the three levels, even the grinchiest of people will be smiling at this magical Christmas store. Featuring holiday displays including decorated trees, a log cabin, a cozy glowing fireplace and a beautiful Alleluia Chapel.
4. Purchase a Pie to Bring to Christmas Dinner at Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery
Chose from 14 flavors of delicious Fry Pies at Hershberger’s
Pick up a made-from-scratch pie or baked good this season at Hershberger’s. It’s an ideal place to taste, see and experience the best of Amish life in Ohio Amish Country.
Some highlights of our stop were their open-fire kettle corn, enjoying an apple cider slushie, and of course a fry pie. These popular half-moon-shaped pastries are stuffed with fruit filling and come in over 14 flavors. Both the strawberry rhubarb and black raspberry were scrumptious.
Allow ample time to browse the barn filled with Amish built pieces from handcrafted signs, sturdy furniture, leather goods, and wooden toys. For an additional fee, feed and pet goats, chickens, bunnies, horses and pigs at the petting area.
5. Wine and Dine at Sunny Slope Winery
Enjoy live music, wine and a delicious meal from a local food truck at Sunny Slope Winery for a romantic date night. Sunny Slope Winery is well known for their sweet fruit wines. Hand crafted and bottled at their Holmes County winery, the wines are made in small batches. Some of our favorites were Elderberry, Mohican Ridge and Coal Bank Hill. Change it up and try a wine slushie like Blue Razz or Drunken Elf for a fun winter time treat.
Sunny Slop Winery brings in local food trucks. When we visited we enjoyed Korasada Korean Fusion, which serves up a creative blending of the best Korean flavors in Mexican, American, and French dishes. Patrons claim they follow this food truck to different venues for their amazing food. We can't rave enough about the Korasada burrito, wonton tacos served with kimchi and truffle parmesan fries with herb aioli. We loved enjoying the live music, and wine while our food was being prepared.
The perfect ending awaits. We grabbed wine to go and headed back for a romantic night at the Berlin Resort to relax in our private jet tub. On the drive back to the hotel, we swung by one of the best Christmas light displays in Ohio to put us in the holiday mood at Wachtel’s.
6. Take a Drive to Wachtel’s Christmas Light Display
Sing along to your favorite Christmas music and enjoy a drive through one of the best and longest running Christmas light displays in Ohio. The Wachtel Christmas Light Display has been operated by the family for over 60 years. Nativity scenes, a lit tunnel, cartoon character boards and thousands of lights illuminate the trees throughout the property, making it a true celebration of Christmas.
Watchel’s Christmas Light Display in Ohio
While visiting, kids can place their Christmas letters to Santa in a special mailbox and visit with him. Even the Grinch made an appearance as he snuck about the farm, we even got a mischievous wave from him! The light display runs every night from 5 -11pm starting Thanksgiving night through New Years Eve.
7. See a Live Nativity at Journey to Bethlehem
The Bethlehem Journey is truly a one-of-a-kind winter event in Ohio Amish Country. We guarantee this family-friendly Christmas activity will be a memorable Christmas tradition with your family on Dec 1-2,2023. For only two days this free event, Journey to Bethlehem, is sponsored by 7 businesses in Walnut Creek.
Come with us as we share a glimpse into this immersive experience walking in the sandals of Joseph and Mary as they journey to Bethlehem. With live characters and reenactments, you'll hear and see firsthand as you register for taxation, travel through the bustling marketplace and meet King Herod. The adventure commences with a live Nativity scene at Walnut Creek Farm. The entire family-friendly Christmas activity took about two hours to complete in Northeastern, Ohio.
Tour an Amish Home and enjoy delicious made-from-scratch food. Watch open-fire kettle corn being prepared before you and see a wide variety of animals from donkeys, sheep to camels on The Farm at Walnut Creek.
The Farm at Walnut Creek during Journey to Bethlehem
8. Go on a Lantern Lit Hike at Norma Johnson Center
Imagine exploring a trail at night illuminated by lanterns. You can experience this magical lit trail at Norma Johnson Center where paper lanterns light the surrounding path. The lighted trail leads through a beautiful wooded section. Before hiking, warm yourself with hot cocoa and cookies at 4:30 at center’s yellow pole barn. No admission or reservations needed.
9. Grab a Peppermint Donut and Coffee at Blue Sky Cafe
Located in downtown Berlin, Blue Sky Cafe features donuts, sandwiches and specialty coffee drinks. They provide quality ingredients, sourced locally in a chic, modern farmhouse aesthetic.
Peppermint Donut at Blue Sky Cafe in Berlin
We enjoyed coffee, the exclusive egg breakfast sandwich with fresh avocado and a holiday inspired donut with peppermint crumbles and chocolate vanilla drizzle! The back deck has seating, including a swing to enjoy. Come check out this recently opened cafe in Berlin.
10. Go on an Invigorating Hike at Mohican State Park
Mohican State Park Covered Bridge
A swinging bridge, stunning overlook and a ladder climb is one reason the Gorge Overlook Trail is a favorite at Mohican State Park. The trail is a 2.5 mile loop that begins and ends on opposite sides of the Gorge. This is no easy hike and is rated moderate - difficult.
Hiking at Mohican State Park
Another incredible hike at Mohican is the Pleasant Hill and Lyons Falls Loop. The trail head and parking can be found next to the Mohican Covered Bridge. The 2.3 mile trail allows you to view not one, but two waterfalls and leads along the Clear Fork River. You can also access the Pleasant Hill Dam and Morning Glory Spillway, which I highly recommend during the hike. It's an invigorating hike but well worth the effort.
11. Find the Perfect Gift at Sheyiah Campus
The perfect place to shop this Christmas is at the sprawling Sheiyah Market located in Berlin, Ohio. Explore the converted dairy barn, which is now a beautiful 3 story boutique and gift barn. You will find various home decor, furniture, clothing and children's toys. Adjacent to the Gift Barn is Country Gathering, which has modern farmhouse home decor and Christmas decorations. Stop and peruse the Gardens, where you can pick up outdoor statues, signs, fountains, and fairy garden items to decorate your front porch and yard this winter season.
12. Enjoy a Sweet Treat at Coblentz Chocolate Company
Coblentz Chocolate Company
Decadent chocolate, rich fudge, and sweet old-fashioned candy can all be found at Coblentz Chocolate Company. During Christmas it's especially lovely, all decorated with lights and beautiful holiday displays. Situated in downtown Walnut Creek, Coblentz is reminiscent of an old-fashioned candy store. You can even customize your own classic brown box of delectable desserts and chocolates that will satisfy your sweet tooth. From fudge and caramel corn to ground coffees, you won't leave empty handed. There is also an adorable play area for kids. You and your child will be in heaven.
13. Shop at Carlisle Gifts Beautiful Victorian Store
Explore Carlisle Gifts beautiful 3 Story Store
A sweeping staircase leads to a host of beautifully decorated displays, especially festive during the Christmas season at Carlisle Gifts. Situated in the downtown area of Walnut Creek, this Victorian style store is a lovely shopping experience. An ideal destination if you're searching for that special gift. The store has three floors filled with unique items. The linen and home decor are beautifully displayed. Plus there is a wide variety of apparel, lotions, wall decor, and candles to be found.
14. Enjoy a Holiday Berry Sangria at Bags Sports Bar
A change from many Amish restaurants in the area. Head to Bags Sports Pub for some delicious food and drinks, especially Bags Berry Sangria. Friendly staff, comfortable booths and laid back atmosphere make it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a meal. Serving large portions of American classics, plus an extensive drink menu, there are tons of options. We ordered the mac n cheese brisket and crispy chicken salad with boneless barbecue wings. My husband devoured the soup of the day, which was a kickin crab clam chowder. We were huge fans of both delicious meals and drinks. Across the street you can make a quick stop at see the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock in the Guinness Book of World’s Record.
15. Explore David Warther Carving Museum
A journey through the history of ship building is told through the intricate carvings of ivory by David Warther. History buffs will appreciate the knowledgeable guide sharing the history and facts about each ship's unique features and the precise artform of scrimshaw etching.
Ivory Ship Carved by David Warther
During your visit observe David Warther in his workshop, as well as, have the privilege to meet the artist as he demonstrates how he creates the ivory strings used on the pieces. At the end of the tour, you can peruse the gift shop to take home a momentum from your experience.
16. Warm Up in a Cozy Suite with Private Jet Tub at Berlin Resort
Extend your stay in Amish Country at the Berlin Resort, a luxury hotel that creates the perfect place to relax with a spa, large suites, and sprawling trails throughout the property. After a lively night out, we headed back for a romantic night in our hotel room with our own jetted tub, wine and chocolates. Our King Club Suite was huge and we appreciated the comfy king bed, soft linen, private jet tub, reclining couch and large TV in our room.
Relax & Stay the night at the Berlin Resort with jetted tub
During our stay we utilized the fitness center, which was quite impressive and open 24hours a day. There is also an indoor swimming pool, sauna, hot tub, gazebo, putt putt golf, movie theater, conference rooms, and outdoor patio. Plus, breakfast is included in your stay. After strolling along the paved walkways at the Berlin Resort, we knew our children would be delighted with the replica store fronts in the Children's Village, a modern playground and windy trails. When visiting Ohio Amish Country, make sure to stay at the Berlin Resort, which is conveniently located near the shops, restaurants and area attractions.
Closing Thoughts
Add these winter holiday events to your Christmas activity list. It’s a memorable way to celebrate Christmas in Ohio Amish Country. No matter what you decide to do during your vacation, you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful area of Ohio. Whether it’s a romantic couples getaway or a Midwest winter family vacation Ohio Amish Country has tons of Christmas and holiday events to enjoy.
We’d love to know what are your favorite things to do in Northeastern, Ohio. Follow Discovering Anew for more Midwest travel destinations. Make sure to pin and save for later and share with a friend.
