new york amish trail

The place in Randolph, NY, is really the town's City Hall Bld., which also serves as a way point for brochures just inside the doors. The "Official Guide" remains the main component of the trip. The town itself, is not unlike many quaint towns nestled in numerous states across Con-US.As for the attraction listed and the roads, which they are situated, is more than a day, perhaps a few day to encompass this grand schema. Unfortunately, fortunately, depending on which side of the coin you're on, the businesses are much like "down-home style" suburbia USA. Do not perceive this a 'ho-hum' experience, but it's not all that one would have envisioned. Thus, for the real deal, Ohio has amore intense experience, by the way. the 4 main communities are closer and much more to see and experience. Happy trails!

It's hard to imagine life without cell phones, computers, radios or television. It's even harder to imagine living without electricity and without cars. You won't need to imagine this lifestyle, you can see it for yourself when you visit Amish country in Western New York. My recent visit was centered in the Conewango Valley, about 60 miles south of Buffalo, NY where life is lived as if it were the 19th century, not the 21st. As soon as we entered the valley, our first glimpse of the Amish was a horse-drawn buggy trotting down Rt. 62 just ahead of us as we crested a hill. It was driven by a bearded Amish man (the beard is a sign he is married) and his bonnet-wearing wife. Our adventure back in time was just beginning.It's helpful to start with a map of the area which encompasses several small towns. We picked up an excellent map in one of the Amish shops. It is published by Cattaraugus County and contains well-drawn road maps as well as locations and information about the many Amish shops/homes you are invited to visit. Our first stop was at Malinda's Candy where goat milk fudge in an avalanche of flavors and other chocolate-covered confections started our day off sweetly. As you stand in the tiny shop inside her home, you can peer into Malinda's spotless kitchen where kerosene lamps and absence of electric outlets remind you how far back in time you have stepped.We continued meandering the scenic hills, stopping at Amish homes to visit woodworking shops, or to ooh and ahh over exquisite hand-made quilts. It's easy to spot Amish homes ... there are no electric wires running to them and most of them have laundry hanging out to dry. When visiting, make sure you stop at the Hill Top Toy Shop on Pope Road in Randolph. This was the highlight of our visit, fun for both young and old. Unlike many of the Amish proprietors who are polite but untalkative, Dan Rabar, the owner of the Toy Shop, kept us enthralled for nearly an hour with his fascinating handmade wooden toys and expertly crafted wooden puzzles that, frankly, really puzzled us! If you go ... I suggest doing a little research on the Amish beforehand to enrich your experience. You'll then know why they dress as they do, why they refuse to be photographed, and you'll gain an understanding of the religious beliefs behind their spartan lifestyle.Spending time in Amish Country nestled in the Enchanted Mountains has a way of opening your mind and lifting your spirit, if only for the simplicity and peacefulness of the experience and the natural beauty of the surroundings.

No pressure. Take all the time you need. Talk to the actual family members. Not commercialized. There are things to buy but don't expect deals, pay cash.

This tour of Amish country near Randolph NY is a must do for anyone interested in the Amish culture and way of life. Unlike Lancaster Pa., this area is where the real Amish live. They sell all kinds of good home-made stuff at bargain prices. They will answer questins about their lifestyle, and beliefs. They are good, ethical people.

The Amish Trail is viewed on a map or website; it shows all the Amish homes/stores (often one and the same). A good place to start is in Randolph, NY 14772. The Amish generally are closed Wednesday afternoon and for sure on Sundays. They must NOT be photographed!!!!! This is against their beliefs. The pie shoppes, vegetable stands, greenhouses, leather shops, carpenters, ironsmiths, farriers, toy maker, rug weavers...quilters....you will find all kinds of treasures. I urge you to stop in Randolph at the Visitor Center on Main Street and get a map!!! Otherwise you may find yourself lost for a while unless you have a GPS. Another Amish tradition of the last 10 years is the annual Auction, where the Amish and the "English" mingle for barbeques, amazing auction items...all to raise money for the Amish health costs, as they do not buy insurance. It's a joyful event, held the Saturday of each Memorial Day weekend, in Cherry Creek. Outdoor tents, outdoor cooking, lots of parking and a shuttle if you need it.