Did you know that New York has the fastest-growing Amish and Mennonite populations in the country? One small Mennonite and Amish town in New York where you can immerse yourself in this distinctive culture is Penn Yan. Here, you’ll get a first-hand introduction to Amish culture and discover plenty of things to do in Penn Yan, New York. If you’re curious to know more, read on to learn all about this charming town and the Amish community in New York who call it their home. 

Penn Yan is just north of Keuka Lake, one of the Finger Lakes. Its population is around 5,000. In the late 20th century, many Amish and Mennonite families began purchasing farmland in the area.
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Like all cultures, there's a bit of a difference between the Amish and Mennonite faiths. Both groups shun various forms of technology and aspects of modern life. Many Mennonites are immersed in American culture, whereas the Amish tend to be more insular.
Horses and buggies are a common sight in Penn Yan. Interestingly enough, the town's name is said to be a combination of "Pennsylvania" and "Yankee."
Steve Guttman NYC/Flickr
We've written about The Windmill Farm And Craft Market before: this place is a true delight and a wonderful way to experience the Amish community in New York.
The Windmill Farm & Craft Market, 3900 NY-14A, Penn Yan, NY 14527, USA
The Windmill Farm & Craft Market/Google Maps
There are so many things to browse through when you're in this Amish community in New York. Various vendors are selling delicious baked goods and homemade wares, plants, toys, furniture, and crafts. Essentially, you'll find pretty much anything you can think of sold in this well-known market.
Walter Santelli/Google Maps
The Windmill also hosts a variety of restaurants, so be sure to grab a delicious snack while witnessing how Amish in New York go about their lives.

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For more things to do in Penn Yan, check out Weaver-View Farms as well. They have a shop featuring products from the Amish in New York. This includes quilts, baskets, and all kinds of goodies.
Deon Roth/Google Maps
This 85-acre farm also has a guesthouse. Therefore, if you decide you want to make a weekend of it, feel free to ask about staying the night. This is an ideal spot to lay your head after you've run around all day checking out things to do in Penn Yan, New York.
386 NY-14, Penn Yan, NY 14527, USA
Christine Nunziato-Bonenfant/Google Maps
When you're hungry, feel free to stop by the Penn Yan diner for a bite to eat in this tiny and charming restaurant.
Penn Yan Diner, 131 E Elm St, Penn Yan, NY 14527, USA
Google/Darryl Clark
It's easy to see that Penn Yan is such a beautiful little town and one of our favorite day trips in New York. As you've learned, the unique atmosphere of this Amish community in New York is so interesting for an outsider to observe.
Keuka Lake, New York, USA
Kristina D.C. Hoeppner/Flickr

As with any town, remember to be respectful of the communities that live in the area when you are visiting. 

Have you been introduced to Amish in New York? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments!

If you’d like to explore more of Upstate New York, take a look at these things to do in nearby Ithaca.

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Things to do in Penn Yan, New York

Marla S. | March 17, 2023

What are some unique communities in New York?

Aside from the Amish in New York who live in Penn Yan, here are some other unique communities throughout the state.

  • Lily Dale: This scenic and gated community is about an hour south of Buffalo, New York.
  • Chittenango:  Aside from its charm and infamous waterfalls, this unique community is known as the birthplace of L. Frank Baum; the author of "The Wizard of Oz."
  • Alexandra Bay: You're in for a novel experience when you head to New York's Thousand Islands to check out this one-of-a-kind destination.
  • Beacon: This Upper Hudson Valley town is along the water as well as a charming downtown area, art museums, and more!

 

If you're looking for more unique communities, feel free to take a look at these small towns in New York, too.

Where are some places to eat when you visit Penn Yan and the Amish in New York? 

Here are some places to eat when you visit Penn Yan and the Amish in New York:

  • Seneca Farms: This local family restaurant is also a popular drive-thru.
  • Penn Yan Diner: Head to this restaurant for a memorable experience dining in a 1925 rail car.
  • Spotted Duck: This seasonal spot is the place to go for ice cream on the weekend.

 

You'll also want to check out this Amish community in New York and the Windmill Farm and Craft Market for a bite to eat.

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Penn Yan, NY 14527, USA