By Kevin Williams
We've all heard about Lancaster County, Pennsylvania; Holmes County, Ohio, and northern Indiana. But what about other Amish communities that might be worth a look?
ARTHUR, ILLINOIS: Man, it's been years since I have been here and I am itching to go back. But this Amish community has developed a true "shop culture" with literally hundreds of home-based businesses from Amish selling eggs to furniture and toys. You could easily fill a couple of days in Arthur. Check out Beachy's Bulk Foods and be sure to check out Roselen's Coffeehouse, one of the few - if not the only - Amish-owned coffeehouses. Some jokingly call it the "Amish Starbucks." Need a latte? Check out Roselen's
An Amish woman pedals her bike in Pinecraft
JAMESPORT, MISSOURI: This is the only Amish community on this l ist that I haven't been to, but I really want to. There are plenty of Amish-owned stores. Learn more here.
KALONA, IOWA: Another true "shop culture" has developed here, with hundreds of Amish homes set up with home-based businesses. Check out Stringtown grocery, an Amish owned bulk food store and be sure to check out the Golden Delight Bakery!
HAZLETON, IOWA: Another "shop culture" town with just a gazillion Amish owned businesses here. Many of them are clustered along "Amish Boulevard." You won't come away from this settlement hungry or wanting for hand-made goods! Click here.
PINECRAFT, FLORIDA: You won't find any buggies here, but you will find amazing hospitality, amazing food, and where else can you mingle with Amish among palm trees or at the beach? Definitely a different type of Amish community but if you are in Florida, this is a great place to experience Plain culture. And you have to check out Yoder's Restaurant while you are there, best peanut butter pie anywhere!
Man, this was a tough list to make...I could have included Grabill, Indiana, or Pearisburg, Virginia or Aylmer, Ontario....there are many places to get your fix of Amish culture without going to the big touristy places.
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