Even the sign posts are strong indicators that you are in Holmes County and Amish country.
Located in Northeast Ohio, 70 miles south of Cleveland and approximately 80 miles from Columbus is Holmes County, which consists of approximately 36,000 Amish residents within five surrounding communities, making the region one of the largest settlements of its kind in the World.
Established as a county in 1824, the area’s long-standing traditions are just as undisturbed as the scenic, rolling country side, where you can enjoy peaceful side trips or multi-day destinations. There is much to explore and learn, and the communities of Millersburg, Berlin and Walnut Creek are considered great starting points.
Millersburg
Millersburg is the county seat for Holmes County with many historical attractions.
The county seat for Holmes County, Millersburg has a population of 3,600 and is known for its many historical attractions. Among several sights to see is The Victorian House Museum, a 28-room Victorian mansion built in the mid-1800s offering a prime example of period Queen Anne architecture in America with its Victorian furnishings, decorations and accessories. Just next door is the Millersburg Glass Museum, which houses a significant display of rare crystal and carnival glass, created between 1909 and 1912. More adventure can be found at the Holmes County Rails to Trails Coalition Inc., where you can stroll, bike, or rollerblade along the 15-mile trail through from the rural communities of Fredericksburg to Killbuck. Be sure to give right-away to horse-drawn wagons on the adjoining trail. The main hub in Millersburg is its downtown district, which is lined with century-old buildings, plus unique shops and boutiques that sell ageless antiques, collectibles and more. Dining is also excellent where you can savor a variety of traditional, homemade European cuisine.
POPULAR 2016 EVENTS:
October 8-9 – Holmes County Antique Festival
July 1-2 – Thunder Over Holmes County – Downtown Millersburg
Berlin
Berlin is the oldest existing village in Holmes County, being established in 1816.
Approximately seven miles west of Millersburg, via the US-62W/Amish Country Byway, is more old order culture to discover. Berlin is the oldest existing village in Holmes County, being established in 1816. Once a center of industry offering several services, including machine shops, dry goods stores, hotels, tailor and blacksmith shops, a tannery, plus a gristmill, Berlin, today, reflects its past with a vibrant commercial center on Main St. It`s lined with many shops, selling everything from hand-made quilts and leather goods, to art galleries (representing local artists), hand-crafted furniture and fine housewares. Enlighten your shopping experience by visiting the specialty food stores and markets, which are exclusive to homemade breads, cheeses, fresh dairy and meats. Local restaurants, too, celebrate the Amish culture with traditional menu items. To further learn about the area and its attractions, visit the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center where you can take in the local culture through interpretive tours, videos, displays, plus a featured 265-foot circular mural that illustrates the community`s long-standing heritage.
POPULAR 2016 EVENTS:
June 18 – MooFest
September 10 – Harvest Fest & Rib Cook-Off
October 7-8 – Charm Days
Walnut Creek
Walnut Creek has many more attractions that are are ideal for families and couples alike.
Motor just five miles on OH-39W to Walnut Creek where many more attractions await and are ideal for families and couples alike. Similar to its neighboring communities – Berlin and Millersburg – Walnut Creek encompasses many shopping opportunities with The Walnut Creek Amish Flea Market, seasonal Hillcrest Orchard, plus a selection of high-quality furniture stores. Further hand-made creations can be admired at David Warther Carvings, a new attraction and exhibit featuring more than 80 meticulous carvings made by David Warther, a fifth generation carver of Swiss heritage. Many of his carvings illustrate the “History of the Ship” from 1st Dynasty Egypt to the present day.
Shopping aside, the kids will love The Farm at Walnut Creek where they can take part in local farm life, and even feed alternative livestock such as giraffe, zebras, buffalo, antelope (and much more) from your own vehicle or from a horse-drawn wagon. Sleigh rides are also available in the winter months. Be sure to also visit the ambient Carlisle Inn or discover the culinary creations at Coblentz Chocolates and Walnut Creek Cheese.
POPULAR 2016 EVENTS:
June 25 – Walnut Creek Vintage Fair
October 7-10 – The Farm at Walnut Creek’s Fall Festival
WHERE TO STAY
With many attractions, restaurants, shopping, events, and activities throughout Holmes County, park your rig, set up your site, and start exploring the authentic Amish Culture. The Campgrounds that we suggest include:
BERLIN PARK AND RV CAMPGROUND
KANDEL’S CAMPING AND RV PARK
AMISH COUNTRY CAMPSITES
EVERGREEN PARK
BAYLOR BEACH PARK
CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL THE RV PARKS IN OHIO
Images courtesy of Holmes County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau
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