The Authentic Flavors Of Heini’s, Guggisberg, And More
If you’re the kind of person who lights up at the words fresh curds and free samples, you’ll feel right at home in Ohio’s Amish Country. Surrounded by quiet farms and rolling hills, this area is packed with flavor and charm. Best of all, these Amish Country cheese stops are in the heart of it all—close to the shops, markets, bakeries, and roadside stands that make Amish Country a favorite weekend escape.
Heini’s Cheese Chalet: A Sampling Extravaganza in Millersburg
Your cheese journey starts in Millersburg at Heini’s Cheese Chalet, a family-owned favorite since the 1930s. The milk used in their cheeses comes straight from nearby Amish farms, and you can taste the difference in every bite.
The scent of aged cheese fills the air as you walk in, and the walls are lined with samples—no kidding. There’s no shortage of options, from creamy yogurt cheese to smoked cheddar and the crowd-pleasing Amish Butter Cheese. You can even watch the cheese being made through large viewing windows, which is always a hit with curious kids (and adults, too).
Savor the Sweetness: Guggisberg’s Renowned Baby Swiss
Just a short drive away, Guggisberg Cheese continues the tradition of local flavor with its famous Baby Swiss. This is where it was first created—a lighter, smoother version of traditional Swiss that’s gained fans across the country. In fact, Guggisberg just won first-place honors at the 2024 World Championship Cheese Contest, proving once again that this small-town shop delivers world-class taste.
Their milk is sourced from dairies certified by the FARM Program (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management), which ensures animal care and top-quality standards. Don’t miss the smoked Baby Swiss—it’s rich and mellow and perfect for sandwiches or snacking.
Experience Perfection: The Nutty, Prize-Winning Swiss of Pearl Valley
Don’t leave without swinging by Pearl Valley Cheese in Fresno. Their Swiss is award-winning for a reason. Pure, Clean, and nutty, with just the right saltiness. And no giant holes, so it slices like a dream for sandwiches. The prices here are some of the best in the region, and they’ll gladly let you taste before you buy.
Before heading home, stop at Pearl Valley Cheese in Fresno. A fourth-generation family business, they’ve been crafting cheese with care for decades. Their Swiss is smooth, clean, and nutty. And no giant holes, so it slices like a dream for sandwiches. The prices here are some of the best in the region, and they’ll gladly let you taste before you buy.
If you’re visiting on a Wednesday morning between March and December, you can catch a free factory tour starting at 9:30. Or, if you’re passing through on a weekday, peek through the windows from 8 to noon to watch the Colby cheese process in action.
A Foodie’s Paradise: Exploring the Vast Cheese Selection and More at Walnut Creek
While Walnut Creek Cheese isn’t a cheese factory in the traditional sense, it earns its place on this tour with its unbeatable selection, affordable prices, and full-on foodie atmosphere. It’s part bulk foods store, part deli, part bakery—and all worth the stop.
You’ll find local cheeses, meats, jams, and more, plus a hot sandwich counter that serves up hearty lunches perfect for a midday break. It ties the whole trip together with its mix of flavor, value, and that old-fashioned country feel. For ideas on tasty treats, check out this recipe from Walnut Creek.
An Amish Cheese-Filled Road Trip Worth Taking
So grab a cooler, hit the backroads, and treat yourself to a day of great food and even better memories. In Amish Country, cheese isn’t just a snack—it’s a story you’ll want to taste again and again. Visit Amish Country for more unique and fun places to see in the area.
Discover more exciting things to do and see across Ohio and beyond at Compass Ohio.
