Pumpkins, Buggies, and Baked Goods: A Quick Girls’ Getaway to Amish Country in Arthur, Illinois
- Heather McDorman
- Sep 25
- 6 min read
Sometimes the best adventures don’t require a plane ticket or a week off work. Sometimes they’re just a car ride away, filled with good friends, good food, and the chance to slow down. That’s exactly what my three friends – Jodi, Kathy, and Laurie – and I discovered during our recent two-day escape to Amish country in Arthur, Illinois. We’d been talking about this trip for over a year, and in mid-September, we finally made it happen.
What followed was 18 hours of laughter, shopping, farm animals, and, yes, more than a few baked goods. It was the kind of trip that fills you up – heart, stomach, and (phone) camera roll alike.
Day One: Maps, Amish Country Markets, and a Pumpkin Wonderland
We kicked off our trip on Wednesday, Sept. 17, gathering at Jodi’s house in Ballwin for the three-hour drive east. It was an easy trip, the kind of drive where the conversation flows as easily as the miles. The weather couldn’t have been more cooperative – warm but clear skies, perfect for a quick adventure.
Our first stop was the Arthur Visitor’s Center, where we stocked up on maps and brochures. This small but charming spot set the tone for the rest of the trip, giving us a preview of the local flavor and hidden gems.
By lunchtime, we were ready to dig in. We chose RoseLen’s Coffee and Delights, a cozy café where each of us tried a different sandwich. As an added treat, I picked up a bag of a prepared sweet cereal mix that included candy corn – perfect for our evening snacking at the bed and breakfast.
Next, we made our way to Shady Crest Market, which was brimming with home décor, food products, and fresh baked goods. I found a couple of fall decorations there – instant souvenirs that now remind me of our trip every time I see them.
But the true highlight of the day (and perhaps the trip) came next: the Great Pumpkin Patch. We happened to be there on opening day, and it was pure autumn magic. Everywhere we turned were clever and beautiful displays, from towering stacks of gourds to perfectly posed photo backdrops.
Photo 1: A territorial alpaca greeted us upon our arrival to The Great Pumpkin Patch. / Photo 2: The goats were much less interested in us. / Photo 3: Artsy displays were plentiful on opening day of the patch, including the unique display of "pumpkins upon chairs."
We were greeted by curious alpacas and a couple of goats, which added to the charm. On the property, we visited The Center School, a one-room schoolhouse more than a hundred years old – an evocative little time capsule. The sweet shop lured us in, too; I left with a bag of assorted taffy, and Kathy picked up a few bottles of unique soda flavors for her great-nieces and nephews.
Slide 1: I've never been in a bigger wagon! / Slide 2: Kathy offered to take a group photo of (from left) Laurie, Jodi and me at the perfect photo opp locale.
But the real showstopper? The pumpkins. Dozens upon dozens of varieties – 30 or 40 at least – each labeled with a whimsical name. Jodi and Laurie left with an assortment for their front porch and fall decorating, and we all came away with our phones filled with pictures.
I wasn't lying – there were so many pumpkins and types of pumpkins -- and gourds. This gallery doesn't tell half of that story!
By late afternoon, it was time to check in at Marsha’s Vineyard Bed & Breakfast. The inn was perfect for us – two large bedrooms, each with its own living space and bathroom. Just beyond the backyard was the home of our host, Marsha, whose yard was watched over by a several beautiful cats she’s trying to find homes for. We soon learned that Marsha isn’t just a B&B host and part of a husband-and-wife farming team – she’s also a world traveler and tour guide. No doubt her travels stories alone could fill a blog post.
Dinner that night was at Pauly’s BBQ, where generous portions ensured we each left with leftovers. Back at the B&B, we chatted, snacked on the aforementioned candy-corn cereal mix, and laughed into the night before turning in.
Day Two: Cinnamon Rolls, Quilts, and Bulk Food Bonanza
Thursday morning started on a high note – breakfast at Yoder’s Kitchen, Marsha’s recommendation. If you ever go, take our advice: order the cinnamon roll. Actually, order one to share. It’s light, fluffy, and sweet enough to make you wish you lived closer. The gift shop attached to Yoder’s is full of treasures, from baked goods to home and fashion items, and none of us left empty-handed.
After breakfast, we couldn’t resist a stop at the MCC Thrift Shop. If you love a thrift shop bargain (Kathy and I are making an art form of this hobby), this place is a gold mine – great prices and a wide selection. We definitely found something to add to our closets.
Next came a quick stop at the Arthur Post Office, where Laurie mailed a postcard to her friend Chris in South Carolina. The two have a tradition of sending postcards to each other from their travels – such a simple but charming way to stay connected.
We then spent time exploring Vine Street, Arthur’s quaint downtown shopping area. Jodi struck gold at Stitch and Sew Fabrics, picking up some gorgeous material and a pattern for a fall quilt perfect for her new home decor. Laurie had a Christmas ornament engraved at a nearby furniture and gift shop for friends getting married next year. We browsed Yoder’s Lamps, Antiques and Collectibles (so well organized and stocked) before heading to our final stop: Beachy’s Bulk Foods.
If you’ve never been to Beachy’s, imagine your favorite grocery store – only everything’s in bulk, from spices and flours to candy and nuts. We all found something fun to add to our pantries and candy dishes.
By early afternoon, it was time to wrap up our whirlwind visit. Jodi once again took the wheel, and we were back in Ballwin before dinner, full of stories, snacks, and a fresh appreciation for small-town charm.
A Few Observations: Amish Country Up Close
One of the most striking things about Arthur is how seamlessly the Amish have integrated into the town. You’ll see them working in shops, eating at restaurants, and traveling by horse and buggy right alongside cars. Nearly every retail establishment has a modern hitching post out front.
As we drove past Amish farms and homes, we saw neat rows of clothes and sheets hanging out to dry. Every property seemed immaculate, a testament to the incredible work ethic of the community. Hearing the clip-clop of buggies while we browsed stores or sipped coffee added an old-world soundtrack to our little getaway.
Note: The Illinois Amish Heritage Center is located in Arthur and is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seasonally on Saturdays. At the center, you can explore a living history farm with historic Amish homes like the 1865 Moses Yoder House, a one-room schoolhouse, and the Hershberger-Miller Barn. Visitors may take part in activities like watching traditional crafts such as blacksmithing and spinning, visiting Grandma's Garden, and attending special events like the Sheep, Yarn, and Quilt Show. The center also offers Amish education and storytelling, with a new Visitor & Museum Center under construction (expected to open in Summer 2026).
Why This Trip Meant So Much
We’re all retired now, which makes it possible to take quick, midweek trips like this one. And while it might have been just 18 hours, the memories will last much longer. There’s something deeply refreshing about stepping into a slower pace of life, surrounded by friends who make you laugh and towns that welcome you with open arms (and cinnamon rolls).
Arthur reminded us that you don’t need a long vacation to feel like you’ve traveled. Sometimes, all you need is a car, a plan, and a few good friends to make the everyday extraordinary.
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~ Heather M. and Jodi B.
Wow, did you ever have a lot of great experiences in a short time! (Jan S)
Great coverage and account! I had not heard of Arthur before. Sounds like plenty of things to see (LOVE the chairs on the barn!) but not as commercialized as Lancaster PA. Good to hear it was interesting … and fun! Friends can make that happen wherever you go!