If you’re looking for a peaceful escape this spring, away from the noise of city life, there’s a charming Amish community in Delaware that offers the perfect day trip destination. Tucked into the quiet countryside, the town of Greenwood invites visitors to step back in time and experience the simple pleasures of Amish life — from handcrafted goods and farm-fresh treats to scenic drives and serene landscapes.
Whether you’re coming for the homemade pies, the old-fashioned shops, or just the chance to slow down, Greenwood offers a delightful springtime retreat.
Discovering Greenwood: A Hidden Gem
Greenwood, Delaware, may not be the most famous destination in the state, but it’s one of the most authentic. Located in Sussex County, Greenwood is home to a small but thriving Amish and Mennonite population. With its peaceful country roads, horse-drawn buggies, and rolling farmland, this town offers a glimpse into a lifestyle centered on faith, family, and tradition.
Spring is arguably the best time to visit. The weather is mild, the flowers are blooming, and local farms are bursting to life with fresh produce, plants, and baked goods. It’s a time when roadside stands pop up along the backroads, offering strawberries, fresh eggs, and other homemade delights.
What To See And Do
While Greenwood is small, it offers plenty of charm for a spring day trip. Here are some must-see stops:
1. Amish Markets and Bake Shops
No trip to an Amish town is complete without sampling the delicious baked goods. In Greenwood, local Amish families often sell homemade pies, breads, cookies, and jams at small farm stands or markets. Be sure to pick up a shoofly pie or whoopie pie — two Pennsylvania Dutch classics — or a loaf of fresh sourdough bread.
You can also find hand-stitched quilts, wood crafts, and other handmade goods in local shops. These items reflect the careful craftsmanship and traditional skills passed down through generations.
2. Country Road Drives
Greenwood’s rural surroundings make for a beautiful spring drive. Roll down your windows and cruise along the winding backroads, where you’ll pass whitewashed farmhouses, barns, and fields dotted with grazing horses and cows. Keep an eye out for Amish buggies sharing the road, and remember to drive respectfully and cautiously.
If you’re a photographer, bring your camera — the pastoral scenery is picture-perfect, especially when the trees are blossoming, and the fields are coming alive with spring color.
3. Visit Local Farms and Nurseries
Many local Amish farms open their doors to visitors in the spring, selling everything from garden plants and flowers to handmade furniture and home goods. Nurseries in the area offer beautiful spring blooms, vegetable plants, and herbs for your garden back home.
Spring is also a great time to visit the local dairy farms and pick up fresh milk, cheeses, and butter. You might even spot baby animals like calves, lambs, or chicks — a sure sign of the season.
Tips For Visiting Amish Country
Before you head out on your Greenwood adventure, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Respect Privacy: While the Amish are welcoming and kind, they value their privacy and modesty. Avoid taking photos of people, especially without permission.
- Plan For Cash Purchases: Many Amish businesses operate on a cash-only basis, so be sure to bring enough money for your purchases.
- Mind The Roads: When you encounter a horse-drawn buggy, slow down and pass carefully. Buggies are much slower than cars, and the safety of both the horse and driver is important.
- Check Hours In Advance: Some Amish shops and stands may have limited hours, especially on Sundays, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.
Where To Eat
While many of your snacks may come straight from farm stands or bake shops, you can also enjoy a hearty sit-down meal at local diners and restaurants near Greenwood. Some offer Amish or Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, like chicken pot pie, homemade noodles, or hearty stews.
If you want to extend your trip, consider visiting nearby towns like Bridgeville or Harrington, where you’ll find additional dining options and local attractions.
Make It A Full Day
A spring day trip to Greenwood doesn’t have to be rushed. Plan your visit around the slower pace of the area: start your morning with a peaceful drive, explore the shops and stands, enjoy a picnic lunch with your fresh treats, and stroll through the countryside or nearby nature spots.
If you’re looking for more to explore, nearby attractions include Killens Pond State Park, where you can hike, paddle, or simply enjoy nature. There’s also the historic town of Milford just a short drive away, with art galleries, antique shops, and a scenic riverwalk.
Final Thoughts
In a world that’s constantly rushing, Greenwood offers a reminder of the beauty of simplicity. A spring visit here is about more than just seeing a place — it’s about experiencing a way of life built on tradition, hard work, and appreciation for the land. Whether you come for the food, the scenery, or the chance to slow down, this tiny Amish town in Delaware will leave you feeling refreshed and reconnected to life’s simpler joys.
So pack a picnic basket, hop in the car, and set out for a spring adventure to Greenwood. You’ll return home with delicious treats, beautiful memories, and maybe even a renewed appreciation for the peaceful rhythms of country life.