Amish Heartland: Exploring Wisconsin’s Largest Amish Community in Monroe County

Amish Heartland: Exploring Wisconsin’s Largest Amish Community in Monroe County

If you’re yearning for a scenic getaway where time slows down and traditions thrive, look no further than the Cashton area in Monroe County, Wisconsin.

Tucked into the rolling hills of the Driftless Region, this is home to Wisconsin’s largest Old Order Amish community, a place where horse-drawn buggies still clip-clop down quiet country lanes, and hand-lettered signs point the way to homemade quilts, fresh bread, and handcrafted furniture.

A Peaceful Landscape, Rooted in Tradition

Driving through the area, visitors are treated to postcard-worthy views: rows of corn shocks dotting the fields, laundry fluttering on clotheslines, and children running down gravel drives. It’s not just scenic, it’s serene.

What to Do in Amish Country

Shop for Amish Goods

From handmade quilts and baskets to wooden toys, furniture, and canned goods, Amish craftsmanship is legendary. Look for small roadside signs advertising:

• Greenhouses & nurseries with heirloom flowers and vegetable plants
• Bakeries offering pies, cinnamon rolls, cookies, and fresh bread
• Furniture shops producing everything from rockers to dining sets
• Quilt shops with traditional and modern patterns

You can find a helpful Amish business directory at Cashton.com.

Sample Local Cheese

One must-stop is Old Country Cheese in Cashton, WI, a small factory in the heart of Amish country that produces cheese from milk supplied by over 230 Amish dairy farms. Try fresh curds, sharp cheddar, or their signature Juusto cheese. The factory store also sells Amish-made jams, candies, and sausage; perfect for a picnic lunch or souvenir bag.

Take a Self-Guided Tour

The best way to experience Amish Country is by driving one of the scenic loops just outside of Cashton. Routes like County Road D, Irish Ridge Road, and Highway 33 wind through gently sloping farmland and take you past farms, roadside stands, and scenic overlooks.

Want help mapping your route? Stop by the Tomah Chamber and Visitor Center in Tomah, WI, to pick up their area guide. It has turn-by-turn directions for an Amish Country Tour.

Where to Stay

Make Monroe County your home base with a cozy stay at a local inn that continues the country vibes.

• Amil’s Inn Bed & Breakfast, in Wilton, with country comfort and homemade breakfasts.
• Justin Trails Resort, a short drive outside Sparta, offers cabins and trails in a peaceful, wooded setting.

Where to Eat

While the Amish don’t operate restaurants, the surrounding towns have great local spots.

• Badger Crossing Pub & Eatery in Cashton for local ingredients that cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.
• Baileys Diner in Norwalk for tacos, tamales, sopas, burritos, and more, using the freshest ingredients.
• Murray’s on Main in Tomah for casual dining in a unique downtown.

Why Visit the Amish Heartland?

This part of Monroe County isn’t just a scenic drive—it’s a cultural experience. It’s a place to unplug, slow down, and appreciate the beauty of handcrafted living. Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind goods, enjoying local cheeses, or simply admiring the lush farmland of the Driftless Region, you’ll leave with a sense of calm and a deeper appreciation for simple pleasures.

Plan Your Visit

Getting There: Cashton is located about 30 minutes southeast of La Crosse, and two hours northwest of Madison.

Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall offers the best weather and full access to farm stands, greenhouses, and shops. Fall is especially stunning with autumn colors in full display.

Traveler Tip: Amish businesses are closed on Sundays, and many accept cash only.