Big Valley, PA: What to Do, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay
Are you planning a trip to Big Valley, PA? I’ve got you covered with things to do, places to eat, and where to stay while in Big Valley.
I recently took a trip to the Juniata River Valley and got to experience much of what this area of Mifflin County has to offer over a few days.
As you drive through, you’ll enjoy stunning views of beautiful rolling farmland nestled in between mountain ridges. Amish buggies are a common sight along PA-655 which is the main road through Big Valley.
The official name of the valley is Kishacoquillas Valley after a friendly local Shawnee Chief but over the years it has become commonly known as Big Valley.
Whether you’re looking for good hikes, a glimpse of the Amish culture, or a fun winery, Big Valley will deliver!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through this link, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for keeping Stuck On The Go going! I was hosted by the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau for my time in town. All opinions are my own.
Things to Do in Big Valley, PA
Big Valley is absolutely gorgeous no matter if you’re looking from the road or above from the mountains. I highly recommend that you take a scenic drive through this area and just stop at the locations that catch your eye. I’m sure there will be plenty of those!
Explore the Amish Stores in Belleville & Nearby
Big Valley, PA is home to one of the largest plain communities in the state. They have three different sects of Amish that live here as well as Mennonite communities.
This means you’ll find all kinds of interesting Amish stores in the Valley! If you’re visiting on a Wednesday, then make sure you head to the Belleville Livestock Market where the Belleville Sale will be happening from about 7 – 11 am.
Whitehall General Store is over 200 years old and the floors are original. They have an amazing sandwich counter in the back where you can pick up a hoagie. Grab a bag of chips and a drink to make it a meal.
Hostetler’s Country Market is also a cool general where you can pick up groceries, grab a sandwich for breakfast or lunch, or pick up coffee or ice cream. Sit in the rocking chairs out front and enjoy taking it slow.
At The Wood Lathe Shop, you can pick up household items like rolling pins and clocks as well as beautiful furniture made out of wood. Peachey’s Furniture is also a popular Amish furniture shop in Big Valley, PA.
Check Out the Belleville Sale on Wednesday
If you want an authentic experience, make sure you’re in town on Wednesday morning. Head over to the Belleville Livestock Market for access to outdoor vendors, a flea market, auctions, and a good meal.
Typically, the sale gets underway at 7 am and goes until 11 am, especially during the summer heat. Arriving early is a good way to avoid the crowds. I pulled in around 7:30 am, and there were only a few people here, but by 9:30, the lot was packed.
You can find everything from produce, plants, baked goods, and handmade crafts among the vendors plus so much more. I visited on a rainy day and there weren’t as many vendors as usual, but there were still plenty of options.
For breakfast, head over to the Hayloft Restaurant, located upstairs in the building with a cow up top. They offer breakfast sandwiches or heaping plates of eggs, potatoes, meat, or pancakes.
There was also a food truck outside and another restaurant located in the building where the produce auction takes place in the mornings. The Livestock Auction takes place in the afternoon.
You’ll find a lot of horses and buggies in the parking lot as this is a popular event for the Amish community.
Go Wine Tasting at Brookmere Winery
This family-owned winery, celebrating 43 years in business in July 2026, is the perfect place to spend a few hours. Especially if the weather is nice and you can enjoy their outdoor patio.
They offer a nice selection of wines ranging from dry to sweet, as well as fruit wines, fortified wines, and spumantes which are sparkling wines. Free tastings are available, but please be respectful of their time.
They also offer Pennsylvania beer, refreshing slushies, and host all kinds of fun events such as the Kentucky Derby party and an Adult Field Day. They even have a Bed & Breakfast on-site.
They are committed to buying grapes from Pennsylvania growers and grow 40% of their grapes on-site. Visiting the wineries near Lewistown is one of the best things to do in the area!
Hike to the Stone Mountain Hawk Watch
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll want to check out this hike with incredible views. Although short, this well-marked path takes you across a rock field which is pretty neat. Good balance and sure footing is pretty important here though.
Start by parking up at the gravel parking lot at these coordinates. Note that the road up to the lot is gravel as well – you’re going the right way!
The trail follows part of the Standing Stone Trail for around 0.3 miles and will lead you to the Hawk Watch platform.
Keep an eye out for the sign that says “Hawk Watch” and climb some rock stairs to get to the platform. In the fall, volunteers are stationed here to monitor and track hawk migrations.
The views of Big Valley really are breathtaking and the reward is amazing for such a short hike. Sunrise is a particularly gorgeous time to do this hike.
It can be chilly up here so bring some layers. I got caught in some rain/sleet the first time I hiked up here.
From the platform, you have two options: if you’re feeling up for it, continue your adventure down the trail another 0.4 miles to Sausser’s Stone Pile, or head back the way you came to your car.
Visit the Quaint Town of Reedsville
Reedsville is an adorable little town in Big Valley where you’ll find some cute stores and good places to eat.
Gritwell is an awesome store that makes beautiful leather goods like pocketbooks, wallets, key chains, and so much more. They also partner with East End Coffee to make their own roast of coffee beans.
You’ll also find soap, shirts, and other great gift options here. East End Coffee is located right beside them too so you can stop in for a hot drink.
On the other side of Gritwell, you’ll find Reedsville Creamery where you can get some of the best ice cream. Try the Biscoff Cookie Butter. They also serve hot dogs and hamburgers.
Finally, diagonally across the street, there is Seven Mountains Wine Bar & Stonefly Cafe. They have a huge wine list, full bar, and beer on draft. I also tried their Smashburger and it was delicious.
Take a Tour With Dayze Gone Bye Carriage Rides
During my visit to Big Valley, I went on a carriage ride with Dayze Gone Bye, which was one of the coolest experiences ever. It gave an interesting glimpse into Amish and Mennonite life in the Valley.
It was a rainy day, so we weren’t able to ride in the open carriage but instead got to enjoy the backroads of Big Valley in an enclosed Amish buggy.
Seeing the beautiful farms and riding the backroads from this perspective was just so neat. We saw cows, horses, sheep, and many other farm animals too.
If you’re ever near Big Valley, definitely add Dayze Gone Bye Carriage Rides to your bucket list. You might even get a chance to stop at a local farm or Amish store if the weather holds out for you.
This is also one of the best things to do near Lewistown, PA!
Grab a Sweet Treat
If you’ve never had a whoopie pie or fry pie made by an Amish baker then move this up to number 1 on your list. I literally said a prayer to thank God the first time I ate a fry pie.
And the whoopie pies… Oh my goodness. They have all kinds of flavors but I got to try the chocolate with cream filling. So good.
There are many places that you can pick these up but a few spots where I noticed them were at Whitehall’s and Hostetler’s and also at the Belleville Sale on Wednesday.
You can likely find them at most general stores or country markets in Big Valley. Don’t forget ice cream at many of these general stores or you can visit Reedsville Creamery!
Restaurants in Big Valley
While you may not think there are many good restaurants in such a rural area, I am here to prove you wrong. You’ll find plenty of good places to eat in Big Valley!
Taste of the Valley
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch, then try Taste of the Valley. You can tell that this is a local favorite and everyone is so friendly.
I went for breakfast and they have lots of sandwiches, wraps, and pancakes. They also have some amazing baked goods – I had the cinnamon roll and it was light and fluffy with the perfect amount of icing.
Their Sale Barn wrap was also delicious and filled with egg, bacon, peppers & onions, and pepper jack cheese. Breakfast was SO affordable too.
For lunch, they have a variety of paninis, wraps, and soups. Don’t forget dessert! You’ll also find a variety of drinks here from smoothies and specialty coffee to tea and hot chocolate.
Seven Mountains Wine Bar and Stonefly Cafe
If you’re in Big Valley and looking for a spot with incredible burgers, great wine, and a variety of drink options, head over to Stonefly Cafe.
Their wine list is extensive, and they even do flights of beer, wine, and mimosas. With a full bar, draft beer, and wine from Seven Mountains Winery, everyone in your group will be happy.
On Wednesdays, they offer any burger listed for only $10. Highly recommend the Smashburger. Their fries are also amazing.
After your meal, head across the street to Reedsville Creamery for some amazing ice cream.
Whitehall General Store
Whitehall General Store is an absolute must-visit whether you’re looking for a delicious and reasonably priced lunch or just love visiting old general stores.
Established over 200 years ago, this historic store still has its original floors and exudes old-time charm and warmth. But a big draw to Whitehall is the sandwich counter in the back where they serve up some of the best hoagies you’ll ever taste.
Grab a bag of chips and a drink, and you’ve got yourself a fantastic meal on the go. Trust me, this place is a great spot to create a picnic lunch for a day of exploring Big Valley. Especially if you want to go on a hike *hint hint * to Hawk Watch.
They do have a couple of tables outside though if you want to enjoy your meal right there. Don’t forget their ice cream either!
Hostetler’s Country Market
Another one of my favorite spots here was Hostetler’s Country Market. I was sad my mom didn’t come with me because she would have loved this little store!
They offer made-to-order or premade breakfast sandwiches, a deli counter for lunch, a coffee bar, and an ice cream counter. The best part? They have a walk-up window outside where you can order coffee or ice cream and hang out in the rocking chairs.
I grabbed one of their premade sausage, egg, and cheese sandwiches and it really hit the spot after a night of camping.
If you want to cook a few of your meals while visiting then they also have groceries so you can pick up what you need.
Hayloft Country Family Restaurant
Located at the Belleville Livestock Market, this restaurant is only open on Wednesday mornings. If you want a hearty breakfast though, then this is the place for you.
I had their Farmer’s Breakfast which came with potatoes, eggs, bacon (can also choose ham or sausage), and toast. I definitely didn’t leave hungry.
They have a variety of breakfast plate options as well as pancakes and sandwiches. This is a quick spot for a meal and the prices are so reasonable!
Reedsville Creamery
Reedsville Creamery is the perfect spot to grab a meal and some of the best ice cream in Big Valley. Not only do they offer a variety of unique flavors like Biscoff Cookie Butter and Strawberry Cheesecake, but they also have your typical flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
They serve hot dogs and hamburgers if you’re looking for a full meal. While their seating is outdoor only, when the weather is nice, there’s truly nothing better than enjoying a cone of their ice cream.
Whether you come for a meal or not, trying their ice cream is a must when you visit Big Valley!
Where to Stay in Big Valley
There aren’t many hotel options in Big Valley but they make up for that with unique vacation rentals and quaint Bed & Breakfasts. Check out a few of these when you book your Big Valley vacation.
Airydale Retreat
Airydale Retreat is the perfect choice for anyone who loves the outdoors but also likes the luxuries of a cozy room.
Airydale’s glamping sites include two domes and four canvas tents, each with its own fire pit, cooking setup, and bathroom facilities. Two of the canvas tents are big enough for families and two are the perfect size for couples.
During my trip, I got to stay in one of the domes which truly spoiled me because when I camp, I’m typically in a tent. The bed was super comfortable, and the pellet stove kept me warm all night in the chilly May weather.
The bathroom even had a rain head in the shower, which was a fun surprise. The location is tucked away and private, but you’re still close to plenty of the attractions of Big Valley as well as Huntingdon and Raystown Lake.
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat and a chance to reconnect with nature, then you won’t be disappointed with Airydale Retreat.
✅ Check reviews on TripAdvisor here. ✅
Dayze Gone Bye Vacation Rental
If you love history or are into old timey things, then the Dayze Gone Bye house is worth checking out for your Big Valley trip. This historic home has been renovated to preserve its original charm while still offering modern amenities like WiFi and a television.
The decor, appliances, and furniture all transport you back in time, giving you a glimpse into what life was like in the past. Plus, being located in Belleville makes it a convenient spot to stay while exploring all that Big Valley has to offer.
This is owned by the same couple who runs Dayze Gone Bye Carriage Rides and they are so welcoming and friendly. They are so knowledgeable about the area too!
Brookmere Winery & Vineyard Inn
For luxury and relaxation, check out the Brookmere Winery & Vineyard Inn. Not only can you indulge in their delicious wines, but their beautiful bed & breakfast is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
The house has three different rooms, all with private bathrooms, and each room is decorated in a unique and cozy style. With a good breakfast and friendly hosts, what more could you want? Plus, you can’t beat the gorgeous views of the vineyard.
This is the perfect spot for a romantic weekend away or a girl’s getaway.
✅ Check reviews on TripAdvisor here. ✅
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Reedsville – State College Area
If you’re a standard hotel kind of person, you’re covered here. The Holiday Inn Express is in a convenient location in Reedsville right at the intersection of PA-655 and Highway 322.
The hotel includes free parking and a full breakfast and they also have a heated indoor pool. Some dogs are allowed (with restrictions) but they do have a pet fee.
Just note that since it’s convenient to State College, it will fill up on football weekends and for other Penn State events. Prices may be higher during these popular times as well.
Wrap Up: Guide to Visiting Big Valley, PA
Big Valley, PA is such an amazing place to visit and explore. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking or scenic drives, interesting stores and experiences with the Amish community, great food options, or unique vacation rentals – you’ll find it here!
This is the perfect place for an extended weekend getaway especially when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Big Valley offers a slower pace to life and a relaxing break from the everyday routine.
