Ohio’s Amish Country is a serene, family-friendly destination for people looking to have wholesome connections and quality time on their next vacation. In the cooler fall and winter months, you might not be as up for a hike or outdoor excursion.
So, what else is there to do? At Your Family’s Place, we curate multigenerational vacation experiences that deliver ultimate comfort and relaxation in our lodges, cottages, and home rentals. Plus, we’re experts in all Ohio Amish Country events and local spots.
Our favorite activity as the colder weather creeps up? The theater, of course! We’ll walk you through the region’s most popular theaters, what they’re known for, and why Your Family’s Place is your choice vacation rental company for your trip to Ohio’s Amish Country.
1. Kent Tusc Performing Arts Center
- Address: 330 University Dr. NE, New Philadelphia, OH
- Website: kent.edu/tuscpac
Any acoustics nerds in the house? You won’t be disappointed with the sound quality at the Kent State University campus performing arts theater. The 2023/2024 season brings plenty of old and new shows, like the 50th-anniversary production of the infamous “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
And if you’re not one for musicals? Enjoy a rib-ticklin’ comedy show instead, as Impractical Jokers star Joe Gatto picked the center for his tour stop! You can also watch orchestras and dance shows here, while families with children and adolescents are bound to appreciate the educational workshops and affordable $15 designated shows.
2. Tuscarawas Philharmonic
Where else can you see world-class cellists, fiddlers, and even clarinetists in Ohio’s Amish Country? Orchestra and classical music lovers look forward to winter performances from the Tuscarawas Philharmonic. The best part? All the holiday-themed choruses and performances. We always recommend the children’s chorus concert every December — it’s wholesome, inspiring, and free!
If you packed an elegant gown with you, this is the place to flaunt it! Exude class and sophistication while enjoying the finer things in life via international musicians and performances.
3. Little Theater
- Address: 466 Carrie Ave NW, New Philadelphia, OH
- Website: thelittletheatreonline.org
Musicals, dramas, children’s plays, and comedies are all common shows at the Little Theater. The non-profit establishment relies solely on donations, making every show much more special.
Catch a showing of Tuck Everlasting or the infamous Christmas pageant this year — both ideal kid-friendly activities in East Central Ohio. You can also attend the annual Community Variety Show, which includes a raffle, wine pull, and special performance.
4. Ohio Star Theater at Dutch Valley
- Address: 1387 Old, OH-39, Sugarcreek, OH
- Website: dhgroup.com/theaters/the-ohio-star-theater
The Dutch Valley is a popular destination for local baked goods, fresh produce, and regional yummies to write home about. But once you’re done exploring, why not rest your feet and enjoy a show at the valley’s Ohio Star Theater? Families across the county flock here for Christmas musicals, comedy acts, and other historically inspired shows!
Do you have a penchant for the booming sounds of trumpets and tubas? Don’t miss out on the December River City Brass Christmas Brasstacular showing!
5. Quaker Cinema
- Address: 158 W High Ave, New Philadelphia, OH
- Website: quakercinema.com
How many theaters have seen the passage of many decades of history? There are not many in New Philadelphia, but the Quaker Cinema has kept its old-timey charm uninterrupted for the last 70 years.
The New-Philadelphia theater treats patrons to modern movie showings with a 1950s ambiance. Talk about vintage! If you’re feeling extra exclusive, you could even rent out an entire movie theater for a truly special evening with the whole family.
A Tuscarawas county gem, Quaker Cinema offers more affordable admissions and concessions than average theaters, so travelers with big groups won’t feel as heavy a pinch on the wallet.
6. Trumpet in the Land
- Address: 1600 Trumpet Dr. NE, New Philadelphia, OH
- Website: trumpetintheland.com
Named after Ohio’s state play and famous outdoor theater production, Trumpet in the Land is renowned in Ohio’s Amish Country for American historical plays and reenactments, popular stories like Dracula, and special productions that rotate weekly. Of course, you can usually catch a live theater show for Trumpet in the Land frequently, no matter the weekend you visit.
Sit back with your kids and loved ones as you listen to tales of American history peppered with engaging humor, inspiring music, and talented voices.
7. Amish Country Theater
- Address: 4365 OH-39, Millersburg, OH
- Website: amishcountrytheater.com
The Amish Country Theater always brings top talent to their audiences. They’re renowned for their comedy shows, which span different styles and special events like ventriloquism by the legendary Ken Rodes, talent shows, and holiday specials. You’ll also feel a hint of national pride as this establishment pays tribute to America’s veterans as finales and precursors to their shows.
Whether you’re after a laugh and a drink with your beau or a full-fledged musical with the kids and entire family, the Amish Country Theater and its charming old-style decor have a show in store for you.
8. Lynne Drive-In
- Address: 9735 US-250, Strasburg, OH
- Website lynndrivein.com
There’s something so deliciously comforting about a movie drive-in. You don’t have to leave the warmth and comfort of your car, making you feel completely relaxed and at home with your loved one.
The Lynne Drive-In will wake up nostalgia even in the seniors on your vacation, as it’s been airing movies since the black-and-white days of 1937! If you arrive early, venture over to the concessions hub and try your hand at the old-school Space Invaders arcade game!
Pro tip: Head over on a Sunday afternoon for the weekly flea market for knick-knacks, gizmos, and artisan snacks!
Engage Your Senses at Ohio’s Amish Country Theaters
Whew, that’s a lot of theaters for a small region in Ohio! The good news? Families, singletons, couples, and friend groups alike will all find something that tickles their fancy at any one of these theaters. Orchestra enthusiasts can flock to the Tuscarawas Philharmonic, while casual moviegoers can check out the Quaker Cinema.
Keep tabs on the local event schedule for theater events and live music shows that pop up across cities like Dover, Walnut Creek, Sugarcreek, New Philadelphia, and more. And if you ask your friends here at Your Family’s Place, we’d be happy to recommend some of the most sought-after shows during your stay.
And once you finish your show? It’s time to retreat back to your comfortable abode, complete with cozy fireplaces, plush bedding, ample games, and close proximity to nature so you can take in the winter views of snowfall and sunrises.
