
Harmony Preston Amish Country
Experience the simple life and handcrafted treasures of a traditional Amish community in Harmony, Minnesota.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel

Harmony Preston Amish Country
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the simple life and handcrafted treasures of a traditional Amish community in Harmony, Minnesota.
"The farms are beautiful and the wares sold are wonderful and well made. "

🚗 Drive Yourself to Save
Consider driving your own car to visit Amish shops and save on tour costs. :car:
🛍️ Shop Directly from Artisans
Purchase unique, handmade crafts and delicious baked goods directly from Amish families. :shopping_bags:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Amish Baked Goods
Various Amish bakeries
Indulge in delicious, homemade treats like cinnamon rolls and pies, a true taste of Amish tradition.

Handcrafted Wares
Amish craft shops
Discover beautiful, well-made crafts and goods directly from Amish artisans.

Insightful Amish Tours
Various tour operators
Gain a deeper understanding of Amish culture and daily life from knowledgeable local guides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits to Harmony
Beyond the Shops: Experiencing Amish Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Yourself to Save
Consider driving your own car to visit Amish shops and save on tour costs. :car:
🛍️ Shop Directly from Artisans
Purchase unique, handmade crafts and delicious baked goods directly from Amish families. :shopping_bags:
📚 Visit the Visitor Center
Get free maps, literature, and learn about Amish history before you go. :books:
🚶♀️ Respectful Exploration
Be mindful and respectful of the Amish community's privacy during your visit. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Yourself to Save
Consider driving your own car to visit Amish shops and save on tour costs. :car:
🛍️ Shop Directly from Artisans
Purchase unique, handmade crafts and delicious baked goods directly from Amish families. :shopping_bags:
📚 Visit the Visitor Center
Get free maps, literature, and learn about Amish history before you go. :books:
🚶♀️ Respectful Exploration
Be mindful and respectful of the Amish community's privacy during your visit. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the authenticity and quality of goods found in Harmony Preston Amish Country, particularly the delicious baked items and well-made crafts. Many highlight the informative and respectful nature of guided tours and the friendliness of the Amish people. However, some feel that certain tours are overpriced and overly focused on shopping, suggesting independent exploration as a better alternative.
"Very informative. The farms that we visited were beautiful and the wares sold are wonderful and well made."
Mark Fastner
"My friends Karen and I took the Amish tour Thursday October 16th 2025. We LOVED it! Our tour guide Rich was amazing. He was very knowledgeable about the Amish life and the families we visited. He was able to answer every question we had. You could tell that he has build love and respect with the Amish families. The families seem to love and resect him also. We plan on going back again and bring more friends with us. Korean Geiken"
Korean Geiken
"My friend and I were part of a tour on July 15, 2025 and Rich was our guide. What an amazing guy he is. Not only were we able to hear him speaking while driving, he shared so much of the history of the Amish people, and as we visited the various farms, he knew the history of the family - how long they had been there, their names, the names AND ages of their children. And you could tell while we visited the various shops, he was well liked by these folks. It was an amazing tour, one I'm glad to have experienced and recommend it to EVERYONE."
Sunset Admirer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Harmony Preston Amish Country is located in southeastern Minnesota, near the Iowa border. Many visitors drive their own vehicles to explore the area and visit the Amish shops. Some tours also operate from nearby cities. Check local listings for tour operators if you prefer not to drive.
Public transportation options directly to Harmony Preston Amish Country are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. If you are coming from a larger city like Minneapolis, consider driving or looking into organized bus tours.
Navigating Harmony is easiest by car, allowing you to visit multiple Amish businesses at your own pace. The local visitor center provides maps with the addresses of Amish stores.
Yes, guided tours are available and can offer valuable insights into Amish culture and history. However, some reviews suggest that certain tours might be more focused on shopping than an in-depth experience.
Harmony Preston Amish Country is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Minneapolis, depending on traffic and your specific route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general area of Harmony Preston Amish Country is free. However, specific tours may have associated costs. Some visitors recommend skipping paid tours and driving yourself to the shops to save money.
Amish shops typically operate during daylight hours and may close earlier on Saturdays and are often closed on Sundays. It's advisable to check specific business hours if you have particular shops in mind.
There are no general entrance fees to visit the Amish community in Harmony. You can freely drive through the area and visit the shops.
Yes, if you opt for a guided tour, it's generally recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Tour prices can vary, with some reviews mentioning around $30 per person for a bus tour that primarily stops at shops. Many suggest this can be a steep price compared to driving yourself.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect to find beautiful farms, unique handcrafted goods, and delicious baked treats. Some tours offer insights into Amish culture, while others focus more on shopping opportunities.
It's crucial to be respectful. Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals or their homes. Many Amish prefer not to be photographed.
Popular shops often sell baked goods, quilts, furniture, and other handcrafted items. The visitor center can provide a list of businesses.
The local visitor center in Harmony offers free admission and provides informational videos and literature about the history of the Amish people.
Dress comfortably and modestly. Since you'll likely be walking around shops and farms, comfortable shoes are recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main culinary draw is traditional Amish baked goods, including pies, breads, and cookies. You can also find homemade jams and other preserves.
Harmony itself is a small community, and dining options are primarily focused on the baked goods and food items sold directly by Amish families. For a wider selection of restaurants, you may need to travel to nearby towns.
Depending on the season, you may be able to purchase fresh produce directly from some Amish farms.
Cinnamon rolls are frequently mentioned as a must-try item. Also, look for freshly baked bread, fruit pies, and cookies.
While not traditional cafes, some Amish businesses might offer simple refreshments. The focus is more on purchasing baked goods to enjoy later.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture scenic farm landscapes, horse-drawn buggies, and the unique architecture of Amish homes and businesses.
Always ask for permission before photographing individuals. Many Amish prefer not to be photographed, so be discreet and respectful.
Look for picturesque country roads with buggies, quaint farm scenes, and the interiors of craft shops showcasing handmade items.
While not specifically advertised, a guided tour can sometimes lead you to visually interesting locations. However, focus on respectful observation rather than just photography.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most beautiful, soft lighting for landscape and farm photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to what's sold in shops. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Consider a self-guided tour by car to allow for spontaneous stops and to manage your children's pace. The visitor center can provide maps and information that can make the trip more engaging for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus your spending on purchasing delicious baked goods and unique handcrafted items directly from the Amish. Utilize the free resources at the visitor center for maps and information, avoiding any paid tour services if your budget is tight. Pack your own picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the scenic countryside.
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
To maximize your shopping experience, get a map from the visitor center and plan your route to hit your must-visit shops. Consider visiting on a weekday morning for a less crowded browsing experience. Don't hesitate to chat with the shop owners (respectfully, of course) to learn about their craft.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Amish Culture in Harmony
When visiting, you'll notice horse-drawn buggies as a primary mode of transportation and farms that are meticulously maintained. The Amish in Harmony are known for their craftsmanship and baking skills. Many farms have shops where they sell goods directly to the public. Understanding their values, such as community, hard work, and separation from the 'English' world, can enhance your appreciation of their culture.
While some tours focus on providing a glimpse into daily life, others are more geared towards shopping. It's beneficial to research the type of experience you're seeking. The local visitor center is a great resource for learning about Amish history and customs before you explore the area.
Shopping for Authentic Amish Goods
Many reviews suggest that visiting the shops directly, rather than relying solely on organized tours, can be a more cost-effective and personal experience. The local visitor center can provide you with a map listing the addresses of various Amish businesses, allowing you to create your own itinerary. This approach also gives you more flexibility to browse at your own pace and interact with the artisans.
When shopping, remember that these are often small, family-run businesses. Prices reflect the quality of materials and the time invested in creating each item. Supporting these local artisans directly contributes to the preservation of their traditional way of life.
Navigating Tours and Independent Exploration
However, some visitors have noted that certain tours can feel more like a shopping excursion than an in-depth cultural experience, and the cost can be a factor. For those who prefer more freedom and control over their visit, driving your own vehicle is a highly recommended alternative. This allows you to visit specific shops that pique your interest, spend as much time as you like at each location, and potentially discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
Regardless of your chosen method, always prioritize respectful engagement. The Amish community values privacy, so be mindful of your actions and always ask permission before taking photos of people or their property. The visitor center is an excellent starting point for gathering information and maps for either approach.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit