When you're visiting a new place it's interesting to see how the locals live. For many of those in the Lancaster area that means taking some time to see how the Amish live. This is America's oldest Amish settlement and there are thousands of people still living a much more simple life than most of us in North America enjoy. Instead of going to work at cable ties factories or working in state-of-the-art hospitals they travel by horse and buggy, use windmills for power, and run their own cottage industries. If you're interested in experiencing a plainer life in Lancaster County, here are some of your options.

Buggy rides are one of the best options for anyone visiting the area and can be great for a couple or the whole family. There are many different businesses that offer this service and can take you through several sections of the Amish landscape. Some will take you through the farmland while others will show you the covered bridges in the area. If you know all about living with barns and horse waterers than you might want to take go on a trail ride instead. Those that want to try this option but don't have much experience can start with a horseback-riding lesson.

For those that want to see the home life of the Amish people there are many homes and museums that are open for tours and viewing. The Amish Farm and House allows you to walk the grounds and see all of the animals as well as their homestead. If you run a veterinarian clinic London Ontario based back home or are traveling with children this might be the most exciting option for you. To learn more about the people and their history you could also visit the Amish Mennonite Information Center or check out the show at the Amish Experience Theatre.

The Amish are known for their beautiful craftsmanship in everything that they create and sell. If you're interested in a souvenir from the area than you should check out their woodwork, quilts, and small trinkets. None of these products will have been made and shipped with the help of lumber banding machines or other modern technology. You could also experience some of the food of the area by shopping at the local farmers market where you can buy everything from homemade root beer to fresh fruits and vegetables. From a life of cloth diapers to no cell phones, everyone should experience a day in the life of the Amish people.