The days are getting warmer and that means more time spent outdoors relaxing and enjoying family and friends.

In Amish Country, we know a thing or two about slowing down and savoring those moments together. We also know how important a beautiful outdoor space can be to making summer memories.

The good news is that our region has an array of options to help you create your backyard oasis.

Let’s start with construction plans. Want to expand your patio, add a firepit or design a grilling station? Keim Home Center has everything you need to bring your Pinterest-inspired landscape to life. From building materials to home décor and everything in between, Keim is a home improvement paradise. Before you check out, be sure to go upstairs to the Carpenters Café for a sandwich and birds-eye view of impressive retail space.

If you need a safe place for your pets to play, Swiss Valley Fence has you covered. They’ll help you select the right fence and railing and make the process easy with professional installation services. Learn how you can customize your fence with a wide range of colors and design features.

Next, let’s look for the perfect outdoor fireplace. A visit to Erb’s Stove Center is a must. The store offers many styles of fireplaces, pits and grills. Their team is there to guide you and make sure you know how to properly care for and maintain your purchase. While there, you’ll also be able to explore pergolas and sheds that can be customized for your yard. The Amish countryside provides a beautiful backdrop and will have you envisioning new potential for your property.

Perhaps you’ll need more seating to create a place for conversations, lounging and sharing a meal. Amish Country has many locations for you to find eye-catching outdoor furniture – from rustic porch rockers to Poly furniture in contemporary styles. The furniture builders in our region are known for crafting durable and lasting pieces, and we want you to love them as much as we do. Kauffman Lawn Furniture, Luxcraft, The Cabin Store and Homestead Furniture are among the places we recommend visiting. You’re sure to be inspired by the variety of colors, styles and fabrics available.

For the finishing touches to your project, head on over to the Sheyiah Market campus. The Gardens, an indoor/outdoor garden center, has an endless selection of plants, pots, baskets, decor and accents that will make you excited for the possibilities in your own backyard. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you learn about all the ways you can transform your landscape.

To add a whimsical element to your property, visit nearby Sol’s in Berlin for lighthouses, wishing wells and yard terrariums.

No outdoor party is complete without something delicious to eat. Where better than Ohio Amish Country to find bulk meats, cheeses and sides? Stop by one of the many area markets for local flavors and the freshest options. Walnut Creek Cheese, Troyer Market, Heini’s Cheese Chalet, The Ashery, Guggisberg Cheese and Winesburg Meats are just a few of our favorites.

As you prep for your next outdoor project, we invite you to visit the traditional hardware stores and modern home centers on our DIY Day Trip.