Ohio has the largest population of Amish in the world. They're especially prevalent in eastern Ohio (Tuscarawas, Holmes and Wayne Counties). There are a number of Amish general stores in the area (shop for cheese and quilts), and some Amish families open their homes for tours. (Call the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism for more information, phone 614-466-8844 or toll-free 800-282-5393.)
The Warther Museum in Dover features the work of an expert carver who crafted working models of steam engines in ebony and ivory. The Alpine-Alpa cheese factory in Wilmot claims to have the world's largest cuckoo clock.
Two re-created villages are worth visiting. Roscoe Village (in Coshocton) brings to life an Ohio town on the Erie Canal in the 1800s, complete with costumed residents, shopkeepers and barge rides. Each May during Dulcimer Days, musicians and artists honor the traditional folk instrument. Schoenbrunn Village (just southeast of New Philadelphia) was Ohio's first Moravian settlement, founded by missionaries who came to the area in 1772 to work with the local Delaware Indians. The outbreak of the Revolutionary War put an end to their work, however: The British arrested the Moravian leaders on charges of treason, and patriot forces massacred almost 100 of the Indians (including 34 children), whom they suspected of being involved in a previous attack. Today, the re-created village contains 18 log buildings and a museum. During the summer, the outdoor drama Trumpet in the Land re-enacts the events surrounding the massacre. If you're anywhere near the village in December, the annual candle-lighting ceremony is both emotional and beautiful. 83 mi/133 km south of Cleveland.
To request access to the full version of this destination guide, please provide your email address below. Your email address will only be used for verification purposes and will not be used for marketing purposes.