The Amish farmers' markets in Pennsylvania are renowned across the country for their friendly atmosphere, delicious local treats, and unique cultural experience—and the Markets at Shrewsbury is no different.
But how do you make the most of your trip? Especially if you’re visiting from out of town or aren’t a regular at The Markets? Well, simply put, you need a game plan. That way, you know exactly what to aim for to have an authentic Pennsylvania Dutch experience.
To that end, here are our five “must-try treats” at the Markets at Shrewsbury. You won’t find these traditional goodies at your local big-box grocery store, so be sure to swing by for a visit soon and taste what’s in season!
1. Amish Home-Churned Ice Cream
It’s always time for ice cream. And if you’re a fan of sweet, creamy, home-churned frozen goodness, it doesn’t get much better than the offerings at Trailside Creamery.
Trailside Creamery serves all of your favorite frozen treats: from seven delicious flavors of soft serve, to ice cream cakes in three different sizes, and hand-dipped ice cream cones and bowls from local Amish farm Down on the Farm Creamery.
Down on the Farm Creamery is based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and is known for serving some of the best ice cream in Pennsylvania Dutch country. It’s not to be missed, so if you’re near the Markets at Shrewsbury, be sure to swing by for a scoop of this local favorite.
2. Seasonal Amish Canned Recipes
Sara’s Jar Goods has been a fixture at The Markets for over 12 years—supplying locals and visitors alike with jarred fare featuring local, in-season fruits and vegetables sourced from Glick’s Produce.
Sara’s regular home-jarred foods include Dutch favorites like red beet eggs, pickled cauliflower, sweet, dill, and bread & butter pickles, pepper cabbage, green beans, salsas, jams, relishes, and more.
But what’s even more are Sara’s seasonal items. Her pumpkin purees, applesauce, pickled watermelon rinds, peaches, and pears are all local delicacies—and sell fast. So swing by to catch what’s in season by taking home a case of mixed-and-matched jarred goods…
Then read our Amish canning recipes to learn how to use them!
3. Pennsylvania Dutch Chocolates and Candies
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Beiler’s Candy Shoppe is for you.
From PA-based Asher’s chocolates to gourmet caramel apples and homemade country fudge, Beiler’s Candy Shoppe has something for every chocolate lover and connoisseur (but it’s not just the chocolates our customers love).
Beiler’s Candy is the place to find your favorite candies from your childhood: Candy Dots on paper, Necco Wafers, Sugar Daddies, Root Beer Barrels, Caramel Cremes… whatever you’re feeling nostalgic for, Beiler’s Candy Shoppe has you covered.
(For specific inquiries regarding vintage candies, call: 717-235-8643)
4. Made-from-Scratch Amish Baked Goods
For traditional, made-from-scratch Amish baked goods, look no further than Ruthie’s Amish Bakery.
Ruthie’s Bakery features an “open” bakery, allowing you to watch delicious baked goods being concocted from scratch. Their incredible selection includes fan-favorites like homemade breads, sticky buns, whoopie pies (in flavors galore), cakes, cookies, rolls, cheesecakes, eclairs, and more.
Not sure which is best for you? Swing by and see what whets your appetite!
5. Traditional Amish Soft Pretzels
No trip to a Pennsylvania Amish store or PA Dutch farmers market feels complete without a soft Amish pretzel or pretzel stick. Luckily, Olde Fashioned Pretzel Haus has you covered.
Old Fashioned Pretzel Haus has been a staple at The Markets since the day we opened. Since then, the stand has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. And why not? Nothing says Pennsylvania Dutch like a traditional German pretzel.
(Be sure to add a fresh-squeezed orange juice, lemonade, or one of their Kutztown Soda flavors to your order as well!)
See You at The Markets!
If you’re local to York County, PA, or just passing through, we hope to see you at the Markets at Shrewsbury soon. Our vendors are all excited to meet and serve our visitors, and with the list above, you’re sure to hit all the favorites.
Swing on by and get to know why everyone loves The Markets!
P.S. While you’re here, be sure to check Penn Dutch Furniture, Cozy Home Gifts & Décor, and Penn Dutch Structures… The Amish handcrafted goods speak for themselves.
The Markets at Shrewsbury has been considered one of the best Amish farmers' markets in Pennsylvania since 2001. Our traditional Amish marketplace features 18 unique vendors ready with traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fares, crafts, clothing, and handcrafted goods. We hope to see you soon for regional treats and friendly conversation in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country!
