When you envision an idyllic trip to Lancaster, PA, you almost certainly imagine the hallmarks of the local Amish community: quaint farms, horse-drawn buggies, and beautiful crafts. Home to one of the largest Amish populations in the United States, the Lancaster area is well known for its rich heritage and vast farms. You'll see Amish residents going about their day as you head to a variety of iconic attractions, several of which are centered around long-held traditions.

If you're especially eager to learn about the local Amish community and way of life, you'll definitely want to schedule a tour. This will provide intriguing insights into these hardworking folks and the traditions they hold dear. This is the most respectful way to learn about Lancaster's Amish population.

In general, it's frowned upon to stare, take photos, or knock on locals' doors. With tours, however, you get an approved glimpse of the Amish lifestyle. This is a must when you visit Amish Country, as we'll explain below.

No one approach to touring is appropriate for every Lancaster visitor. A lot depends on your schedule and your attention span. The specific mode of transportation must also be considered, as well as your intention to complete the tour with friends, kids, or as a fun day out with your significant other.

As you determine which tour is best for you and your loved ones, ask yourself a few key questions:

• Are you interested enough in the Amish lifestyle to dedicate a significant portion of your day to a detail-oriented tour? Or do you prefer a brief and limited overview?

• Would you rather walk so you can see a few Amish structures up close? Or would you like to hang out in a bus or buggy as you enjoy panoramic views of Amish country?

• Will you be accompanied by children? How big of an attention span do they have?

Depending on your unique preferences and schedule, you may find yourself gravitating toward one of these local favorites:

The Amish Village

Centered around an authentic Amish farmhouse constructed during the 1840s, The Amish Village also has a barn, a schoolhouse, and even a blacksmith shop.

Employing both current and former members of the Amish community, this village provides accurate information through interactions with staff members and exploration of its 12-acre property.

• Backroads bus tour. Hop on a comfy bus for a narrated tour of Amish Country. This is a wonderful option for anybody who might struggle to navigate the Amish Village property by foot. You'll gain a well-rounded understanding of Amish customs as you look out the large windows at the picturesque countryside.

• Farmhouse & village tours. If you're not interested in the bus ride or suspect that your children would struggle, you can stick with the farmhouse and village, where you'll take a short guided tour or simply wander around at your own pace. This is by far the most affordable option, with tickets available for purchase onsite.

• Premium packages. If you struggle to choose between bus and village tours, you're in luck — with a premium package, you can enjoy both experiences. Set aside several hours for this immersive option, which includes not only the aforementioned 90-minute narrated bus tour, but also, a self-guided tour of the grounds, and a tour of the schoolhouse and outbuildings.

Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides

If you've always been drawn to Amish buggy tours Lancaster PA is the place to visit. Head for Plain & Fancy Farm, where Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides take off. This has been the home base for the Lancaster area's best buggy rides for over four decades.

Rides of all lengths are available, with the shortest jaunts starting at just 20 minutes. The horses are friendly and well cared for, with featured breeds including American Standardbred and American Saddlebred. If you're interested in taking a ride, consider one of these top routes:

• Cookie Run. This kid-friendly option involves a brief visit to a farm stand, where you can purchase cookies, pretzels, root beer, and more.

• Amish Farm Tour. Enjoy a more extensive overview of Amish farm life with this one-hour tour, which incorporates not only the beloved farm stand, but also barn tours and up-close greetings with the cows, horses, and mules.

• Amish Journey. For the most intimate buggy experience available, book the Amish Journey. This ride can last a full two hours, carrying you through miles of lovely farmland. You'll witness a water-powered flour mill, a farm store, and more.

• The Sunday Ride. As its name implies, this exclusive journey is available only on Sundays, when many Amish families conduct church. For this reason, you may spot several carriages gathered at specific farms along this route.

The Amish Farm & House

As the nation's very first Amish-focused tourist attraction, The Amish Farm set the precedent and continues to be a leader in the Amish tour space. It all began with a great idea from local entrepreneur Adolf Neuber, who realized that visitors would enjoy learning the ins and outs of Amish life.

Once owned by an Amish family, the farm is over three centuries old. The vast majority of the staff members who conduct tours are natives of Lancaster County. Several have interacted or even worked closely with the region's Amish residents. These experts bring both extensive knowledge and undeniable charm to the table.

Top tour options at this location include:

• Bus tours. Available both as classic tours and with premium packages, these rides last 90 minutes andalso provide the opportunity to explore the farm and schoolhouse upon returning to the main location. The premium option includes both a bus tour and a guided farmhouse tour.

• Guided farmhouse tour. If you like the idea of attending an Amish tour but aren't ready to schedule your visit, this is your best bet. The guided tours at The Amish Farm do not involve reservations, so you can show up when you're ready to check out the 1805 farmhouse.

• Seasonal tours. From summer picnics to holiday cookie sampling, The Amish Farm offers several exclusive tours that hold a great deal of seasonal charm. These range in price but typically last three hours.