by Discover the Amish community in southeast Minnesota, where tradition and simplicity still rule, and their intriguing and distinctive way of life.
A trip to the Amish hamlet in southeast Minnesota by St. Paul, Minnesota, provides a glimpse into a simpler life. More than 150 Amish families call the Harmony and Canton area home, making it a vibrant and alluring location for those looking for a genuine experience.
This area of Minnesota, home to more than 1,000 Amish, is a living example of the Old Order Amish, one of the most strict religious communities in the country. But what’s really unique about this place? the opportunity to observe a lifestyle that differs greatly from the contemporary world without traveling back in time. Every visit promises to leave you with enduring memories, whether you decide to explore the area yourself, with a guide, or through an audio tour.
Step Into Amish Life: Tours and Traditions
Immersion in Amish culture is easy for visitors to the region. There are a number of ways to explore the area, ranging from self-guided excursions that can be improved with audio tours offered by nearby tourist centers to guided tours like Bluffscape Amish Tours or Amish Tours of Harmony.
It’s easy to see evidence of Amish ownership as you go around the countryside. Their basic yet exquisite two-story white farmhouses contrast sharply with their non-Amish neighbors’ elaborate residences.
During the winter, keep an eye out for black buggies tied outdoors, horses plow fields, and clothing hanging on lines that are frequently still drying.
The Amish Way: Simplicity and Faith Above All
Visitors will observe the close relationship between religious rituals and everyday life, which is deeply ingrained in the Amish way of life.
The Amish people who came to this region in 1974 follow a way of life that places a strong emphasis on avoiding contact with the outside world. They rely on kerosene lamps to light their journey because their dwellings lack indoor plumbing and power.
As crafts are created, treadle sewing machines hum softly in the background, and wood-burning stoves frequently fill the kitchens with warmth.
A Rare Peek into Amish Homes
A unique opportunity to enter an Amish home awaits tourists on guided tours.
Visitors are immediately drawn to the room’s minimalism, which includes modest wooden tables, wood-burning fireplaces, and sparse furniture. Parents sleep downstairs, and children’s bedrooms are above.
An icehouse, where ice is kept after being collected from nearby ponds in the winter, will also be visible to visitors.
The Amish uphold a simple, pragmatic way of life that prioritizes family and religion over contemporary convenience.
Business, But on Their Own Terms
The Amish are permitted to work temporary occupations like construction but are not permitted to hold permanent positions in the town.
Though they are usually closed on Sundays and religious holidays, some Amish also own stores. These shops offer a variety of handcrafted items, such as wood furniture, canned products, and quilts. Some companies even focus on particular products, such as furniture created to order or cedar chests.
For a taste of their delectable handcrafted goods, such as glazed pies and cashew crunch, which make excellent roadside snacks, be sure to visit the local Amish markets and shops!
Tips for Visiting the Amish Community
Keep in mind to drive carefully as you traverse southeast Minnesota’s undulating hills. Even though some may have reflecting signage, the Amish buggies move slowly and are hard to see at night in their dark carriages.
If you intend to visit any Amish stores, keep in mind that they only take cash or checks, and because of their limited hours, it’s advisable to check their calendar beforehand.
Don’t pass up the Amish farmers markets if you want to carry a bit of this distinctive culture home with you. The Amish greenhouses are particularly well-liked in the spring and provide affordable, healthy plants. However, the best selections sell out quickly, so be sure to visit early!
