A Swiss Cheese-Making Hub In The Midwest Is Known As The 'Little Switzerland Of Ohio'

The United States is a country built by immigrants, and people making the long journey over the past 250 years have understandably wanted to bring some of their food, culture, and traditions with them. No wonder there are so many must-visit ethnic neighborhoods for culture-seekers from the vibrant Little India in Jersey City and the bustling Little Ethiopia in Washington, D.C. to the host of Little Italys and Chinatowns from coast to coast that offer distinctive color and flavor to their cities. But sometimes a strong international flair extends beyond the confines of a neighborhood, even influencing an entire town. This is the case in Sugarcreek, a Midwestern town known as the "Little Switzerland of Ohio."

There are several places in Continental America where you can experience Switzerland without breaking the bank, but Sugarcreek has perhaps the greatest claim to that title. Not only does it have a Swiss cheese-making heritage going back to the late 19th century, it is also home to one of the world's largest cuckoo clocks. Nestled in Tuscarawas County between Columbus, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh, Sugarcreek is also known as a gateway to Amish country. It was the Amish, along with Swiss and German migrants, who first settled in the area and left an indelible impression on the village we see today. Less than a two-hour drive from either of the three urban centers, Sugarcreek makes for a fascinating trip — indeed, for a community with a population of just 2,300 people, there is enough going on to warrant a longer stay to savor the atmosphere. And the cheese. Let's take a look at some of the highlights.

One of the first things you'll notice as you amble through the tiny downtown area of Sugarcreek is the distinctly Alpine look of many buildings. This is the legacy of painter Tom Miller, who began painting storefronts in the Swiss style back in the 1950s and encouraged his fellow citizens to do the same. It took a while to catch on but, as tourism grew and locals fully embraced their Old World roots, Sugarcreek became the riot of colorful architecture and murals that visitors enjoy today. The centerpiece is the World's Largest Cuckoo Clock. Built in 1972, it technically lost that record to an even bigger one in Schonach, Germany in 1994, but no-one seems to mind Sugarcreek holding onto the title. Every 30 minutes, the bird pops out and a clockwork polka band plays as a couple in traditional costume dance.

Elsewhere in town, you can explore Sugarcreek's fascinating history at the Alpine Hills Museum and check out the fine collection of vintage locomotives at the Age of Steam Roundhouse. As part of Ohio's large Amish community, you will find plenty of traditional arts and crafts and even get a chance to ride a horse-drawn trolley through the streets. Sugarcreek is a delightful place all year round, but perhaps the best time to visit is in September for the Ohio Swiss Festival. Expect oompah music, costumes, parades, cheese and wine tasting, activities for the kids, and an unusual Swiss sport called Steinstossen, in which competitors throw a heavy stone as far as they can.

Sugarcreek is situated in a rural area surrounded by many dairy farms and making Swiss-style cheese is a time-honored tradition in these parts. As such, no visit to the town would be complete without sampling some of the local products. One of the most famous factories is Guggisberg Cheese, originators of the Baby Swiss, a milder variety aged less to cater for American tastes. Also check out Broad Run Cheesehouse, a family-run deli and boutique shop that has been producing over 30 types for the best part of a century. Naturally, cheese pairs well with wine and you can also enjoy a drop of their Swiss Heritage varieties. For more wine in a convivial atmosphere, Winetageous is a small winery that hosts regular live music and food truck events.

Apart from Sugarcreek's delicious cheese, you can also tuck into home-style Amish cooking at Dutch Valley Restaurant. The lunch and dinner buffet is something of a local institution with its broasted chicken and other simple but heartening favorites. For tasty breakfasts and sweet treats, head to Amish Country Donuts & Cafe — don't sleep on their speciality sourdough donuts with the maple glaze. If you are more of a brew fan than a wine lover, Bags Sports Pub might be the place to go. The friendly hangout offers a good range of bottled, draft, and craft beers to wash down the menu's selection of classic pub grub like giant pretzels, burgers, wings, and prime Angus steaks.

For a budget-friendly adventure when the weather is warm enough, you can camp at Winklepleck Grove. It's a short drive from the town center, and whether you're bringing a tent or RV, sites cost just $25 per night. Alternatively, the charming Sugarcreek Village Inn is in the heart of town and open year-round, where rooms start at about $100 per night.