Amish Country Road Trips: Geauga & Trumbull Counties

Although the Amish communities of Geauga and Trumbull counties may not be as well known statewide as those located to the south of them, they attract those who seek a taste of country living just a short drive from the city. Rothenbühler Cheese Chalet offers the chance to buy Middlefield’s famous Swiss cheese, while End of the Commons General Store churns out fry pies daily. Both are must-visit destinations when exploring this corner of rural Ohio.

Nauvoo Family Market: This store sells a variety of bulk foods for those who want to stock up and save some money. It’s also a hardware shop with supplies and tools one may need at home, and even rents machinery. The market’s bakery is stocked with fresh doughnuts, pies, cookies and more that alone make a visit worthwhile. It also serves fresh sandwiches featuring a variety of locally made cheeses, meats and breads. 15979 Nauvoo Rd., Middlefield 44062, 440/632-5584, nauvoofamilymarket.com

Rothenbühler Cheese Chalet: This cheesemaker dates back to July 4, 1956, when founder and Swiss immigrant Hans Rothenbühler created a 250-pound cheese wheel in his new town of Middlefield. Today, a third generation of the family oversees the operation he started, crafting a range of Swiss cheese varieties. An exhibit at the chalet traces the company’s history back to Switzerland. Swiss carvings and traditional cheesemaking tools are also on display. 15815 Nauvoo Rd., Middlefield 44062, 440/632-5228, rothenbuhlercheesemakers.com

Mary Yoder’s Amish Kitchen: Since 1987, Mary Yoder’s Amish Kitchen has served old-fashioned Amish cooking in the heart of Middlefield. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and is home to an on-site bakery with pie flavors that range from Dutch apple to strawberry rhubarb to chocolate cream. The cookies are popular, too. And, if you aren’t able to make the trip to Middlefield, you can order both online. 14743 N. State St., Middlefield 44062, 440/632-1939, maryyodersamishkitchen.com

Hershberger's Housewares: This Amish-owned shop is filled with country charm, including an impressive selection of Yankee, Colonial and Woodwick candles (the latter of which give off a pleasant, crackling sound when burned). You’ll also find a selection of toys, books, stainless steel kitchen items, pressure canners and popcorn poppers. Hersberger's Housewares can also help you stock your pantry with its selection of honey, maple spreads, jams, glazes and seasonings. 15419 Madison Rd., Middlefield 44062, 440/632-9065 

Ridgeview Farm: This working 100-acre farm offers an educational and memorable experience, especially as summer turns to fall. The on-site Amish education center teaches children about agriculture and how Amish culture has been passed down through the generations. Buy seasonal fresh produce or pick your own strawberries during the summer. Fall weekends bring activities such as hayrides and an 8-acre corn maze with a different theme each year. 5488 Kinsman Rd., Middlefield 44062, 440/693-4000, ridgeviewfarm.com

End of the Commons General Store: Founded in 1840, this business once sold bulk items to the local Amish community. Today, Ohio’s oldest operating general store sells a wide range of products, from nostalgia gifts to retro candies to Amish meats and cheeses. Be sure to pick up a few traditional Amish fry pies, which are made in-house daily, and check out the store’s 200 soda varieties. 8719 St. Rte. 534, Mesopotamia 44439, 440/693-4295, endofthecommons.com