NEW YORK – A Backroads Adventure: Abe’s Buggy Rides in Lancaster
A few weekends ago, I had the pleasure of visiting Lancaster, Pennsylvania, with some friends. Having been there before, I was already fascinated by the rich Amish culture. This time, however, I was particularly excited to share the experience with friends who had never encountered this unique world. Naturally, we agreed that no trip to Amish country would be complete without a traditional buggy ride, so we headed to Abe’s Buggy Rides. A staple of Lancaster since 1967, it offers visitors the chance to explore the picturesque backroads of the Amish community.
Holy Experiment
Before diving into the details of our buggy adventure, it’s worth reflecting on the intriguing history and culture of the Amish. Their roots stretch back to the Anabaptist movement in Zurich, Switzerland, which began in 1525. Named after Jacob Amman, who broke away from the Mennonites in 1693, the Amish were persecuted in Europe. Seeking refuge, many immigrants arrived in Pennsylvania in the late 1600s, drawn by William Penn’s promise of religious tolerance in his “Holy Experiment.” They still live by the Ordnung, an unwritten code governing their humble, minimalist lifestyle.
King George II
As we traveled along Route 340, a road steeped in history—built in 1733 by King George II and once known as the King’s Highway—we passed through the charming town of Bird-in-Hand. Established in 1734, this town, like Amish culture, exudes a timeless sense of simplicity. Interestingly, Bird-in-Hand got its name from a sign at a local inn, proudly displaying a bird perched in hand—a symbol of certainty and contentment.
Close Knit Community
The Amish lifestyle is both fascinating and admirable. Their hard-working, close-knit community shuns modern conveniences like cars and electricity, instead relying on horse-drawn buggies and lamp-lit homes. Their children attend one-room schoolhouses, where they learn grades 1 through 8. They study in both their native Pennsylvania Dutch dialect and English, which they begin learning when they enter school.
It’s a Journey
Visiting Lancaster and experiencing life through an Amish lens is more than just a trip back in time; it’s an opportunity to reflect on the values of simplicity, community, and contentment. Whether you’re intrigued by history, drawn to a slower pace of life, or simply curious about a world so different from your own, a buggy ride through the backroads offers more than scenic beauty—it’s a journey into a way of life that quietly inspires us to rethink our fast-paced, technology-driven world.
Here are some photos from our Abe’s Buggy Rides experience.
A welcoming sign for Abe’s Buggy Rides on in Bird-in-hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff
Signing up for Abe’s Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora VernikoffGift shop at Abe’s Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff
A horse-drawn Buggy at Abe’s Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora VernikoffA horse-drawn Buggy is ready to go at Abe’s Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff
A driver at Abe’s Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora VernikoffA view from the seats in Abe’s Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff
A horse eating hay at Abe’s Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff
We were fortunate to spend most of our time exploring the scenic backroads, and what an experience it was! Our incredibly kind driver even taught me how to handle the horse. He let me take the reins halfway to a charming local general store, and on the way back, my girlfriend had the chance to drive, too.
At the general store, we discovered a treasure trove of authentic Amish treats, from the famous Whoopie Pie and Shoo-Fly Pie to a wide variety of freshly baked Amish bread. It was a delightful taste of the Amish way of life!
Let’s take a look.
Outdoor view of an Amish general store. Photo by Sora VernikoffWhoopie Pies on display at the Amish general store. Photo by Sora Vernikoff
Shoofly Pies on display at the Amish general store. Photo by Sora VernikoffFreshly baked bread at the Amish general store. Photo by Sora Vernikoff
And let’s not forget the most unique, fresh, hand-rolled pretzels were made and sold on the store’s property. “Oh my,” is all I will say.
Fresh, hand-rolled soft pretzels in Bird in Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff
Suppose you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or simply craving a peaceful day or two of adventure. In that case, I highly recommend taking a road trip to Lancaster and experiencing a buggy ride at Abe’s. It’s a journey offering more than just beautiful scenery—it provides a glimpse into a more straightforward, more intentional way of life. The entire experience was charming, as a visit to Amish country always is. Trust me, it’s a trip you won’t soon forget!
A Backroads Adventure: Abe’s Buggy Rides in Lancaster
Abe’s Buggy Rides
2596 Old Philadelphia Pike Bird-in-hand, PA 17505 (717) 392-1794
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