Explore Pennsylvania’s Welcoming Village: A Hub of Amish Culture with Handmade Goods, Crafts, and Treats

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Explore Pennsylvania's Welcoming Village: A Hub of Amish Culture with Handmade Goods, Crafts, and Treats
Aerial view of green community landscape in Smicksburg, Pennsylvania

Fancy escaping to a tree-lined historic village where you can explore some of Pennsylvania’s best Amish country gems, attend an annual apple, peach, or strawberry festival, and pick up unique handmade crafts? Consider visiting the idyllic town of Smicksburg.



Founded in 1827 by Lutheran minister Reverend J. George Schmick, Smicksburg is a pastoral town in Indiana County, around 65 miles from Pittsburg and 14 miles from Punxsutawney. Thanks to a significant Amish community, the region is a great place to shop for rustic furniture, indulge in cookies and cakes made by local bakers, and drive around the farmlands for a glimpse of Amish life. History buffs can also visit the John G. Schmick Heritage Center to learn more about this village’s rich history.

Driving is the most convenient way to get to and around Smicksburg, but if that’s not an option for you, there is a bus service that runs on Fridays from Punxsutawney. Hotels are limited in Smicksburg, but you can stay in the old-timey Smicksburg Inn. Nearby Punxsutawney also offers some accommodation options. If camping is more your vibe, then Milton Loop Campground is about 10 minutes from Smicksburg. Planning on spending a lot of time outdoors? Consider visiting between June and October to take advantage of the area’s generally warm, clear weather.



Get a taste of Smicksburg’s Amish culture

Horse and buggy road sign

Smicksburg is a tourist-friendly village offering visitors a taste of Amish life. Here, you can drive down peaceful streets surrounded by thick trees and catch a glimpse of Amish people working the land and going about their daily activities. The Amish drive horse-drawn buggies rather than cars, and you can spot designated buggy parking spaces around Smicksburg. Drive carefully, as you may also find yourself sharing the road with horses. If you plan to shop in Smicksburg, you’ll also want to bring cash, as Amish stores won’t accept card payments.

Remember to respect the culture of any place that you visit. It can be tempting to whip out your phone and take pictures when you see something you’re not used to, but keep in mind that you are a guest, and the locals are just living their lives. Many Amish people are uncomfortable being photographed, and as a general rule, you should ask permission before taking pictures of anyone. This also applies to private property, so don’t pose in front of someone’s house or farm without permission. 

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Shop for handmade crafts and local treats in Smicksburg

Aerial view of a shop in Smicksburg, Pennsylvania

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.