Opening day at Schrock’s Amish Farm and Village in Berlin is a sure sign that spring is here. Once again, the horses and the buggies are ready to offer rides to visitors to the area.

The farm train is gearing up for a busy season and the shops are filled with new merchandise as everyone prepares for the thousands of guests that visit the farm each year. Travelers come from all over the world, as many as 20-30 countries and 40 or more states each year.

But the tourists aren’t the only people who enjoy a visit to the farm. Many local residents are seen with their children and grandchildren taking train rides. The 16-gauge train that travels 1.25 miles throughout the farm grounds is a hit for all ages.

“Many people come to the farm and see the little circle at the depot and assume the train just runs in the little circle, they are surprised when they realize it is an 18-20 minute ride going to the farms far end of the 55 acre property.” said owner Jo Ann Hershberger. “My grandchildren love the train ride and contrary to what you may think about local kids, they also love the buggy ride. I enjoy bringing the kids to the farm for a half day outing as we visit the pet shop, take our rides, check out a few animals and eat lunch at the diner. Sometimes we pack our lunches and enjoy a picnic. Either way the kids love it!”

During the month of April, Schrock’s is offering free train rides for the local folks. Just mention that you saw this story and we’ll give your family a free ride.

Local folks are encouraged to come out and enjoy what thousands of tourists enjoy all summer at the farm. The Farm Diner offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, fries, onion rings and more to those who have worked up an appetite. “We currently have a basic menu, but will be adding some wonderful new burgers and wraps for our guests.” The diner has been remodeled to add more character to the building and make for an inviting place to sit and relax. Velvet ice cream tops off any meal or cools anyone down on a hot summer day. The diner is open during regular farm hours, which are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some extended hours during the summer months.

Of course there is lots of shopping opportunities at the village with nine different shops to choose from. No two shops are the same, so it makes shopping more interesting, and there is something for everyone. Quilters will love a visit to Gramma Fannies Quilt Barn, which was opened in memory of Grandma Fannie Erb.

“She was a wonderful grandmother and I remember being under the quilt set up in her living room as a girl,” said Hershberger. The shop offers 2,000 bolts of quilt shop quality fabrics and all the notions you need to complete a quilt.

Tis the Season is Ohio’s largest year-round Christmas shop and offers guests more than 75 decorated trees on three floors of Christmas wonderland. The antique and craft malls have such a huge variety of things to offer, it must be seen to be appreciate. Berlin Pets has the cutest little puppies in an USDA approved environment and Berlin Leather is just what you need if you are into western attire, with boots and leather belts lining the shelves.

Many people don’t realize that there is an FTD florist here at the farm. Precious Petals offers fresh arrangements and has a small country gift shop. Check them out for all your floral needs including weddings, graduations and all special occasions.

Ms Gadgets is the newest business on the property with hundreds of kitchen gadgets, pots and pans, linens, and a treat of homemade fudge and a coffee bar. Quail Hollow candles is also a unique little shop where visitors may watch Harold hand carve candles.

Anyone looking for something to do with the family that’s close to home this summer, remember Schrock’s Amish Farm and Village, located just one mile east of Berlin on SR 39.