In the heart of Indiana’s Amish Country, Shipshewana is brimming with tradition and charm of simpler times, offering a getaway from the busy life in the big cities. This community in LaGrange country is home to the third-largest Amish community in the USA and is where you can experience genuine Amish life visiting farms, markets and even wandering around town. The Amish community established Shipshewana in the early 19th century as they sought refuge from religious persecution in Europe. Indiana’s rolling countryside provided a haven to uphold their customs and simple way of life. Shipshewana, with its verdant landscapes and fertile farmlands, became a haven where traditions thrived and a strong sense of community was forged. Today, their legacy is woven into every facet of the town, inviting visitors to journey back in time and experience living history.
Contents
- Shipshewana, Indiana
- 20 Things To Do in Shipshewana: A Local Explorer’s Guide
- 1- Visit The Menno-Hof Amish/Mennonite Information Center
- 2- Experience The Shipshewana Auction and Flea Market
- 3- Take A Ride In An Amish Buggy
- 4- Follow The Quilt Garden Trail
- 5- Go Shopping
- 6- Indulge in Local Culinary Delights
- 7- Sample Dandelion Wine
- 8- See A Live Performance at the Blue Gate Theater
- 9- Go Hiking
- 10- Drift Away on a Boat Tour
- 12- Visit Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park
- 14- See A Show At Michiana Event Center
- 15- David Rogers Memorial Park
- 16- Stutzman Dairy Farm
- 17- Follow The Pumpkinvine Trail
- 20 Things To Do in Shipshewana: A Local Explorer’s Guide
Shipshewana, Indiana
20 Things To Do in Shipshewana: A Local Explorer’s Guide
1- Visit The Menno-Hof Amish/Mennonite Information Center
Explore interactive exhibits that chronicle the history of the Amish and Mennonites through multimedia presentations and life-sized re-creations.
Engaging and informative, the center invites you to experience the lives of the Amish and Mennonites firsthand.
This should be your first stop and where you’ll learn about their customs, beliefs and the challenges they face while striving to maintain their way of life.
In addition to traditional practices and historical narratives, you’ll discover that while the Amish are renowned for their simple living and hesitance to adopt modern conveniences, they are not entirely disconnected from technological advancements.
Most people are surprised at the innovative ways in which the Amish community integrates technology into their lives without displacing the old ways.
For example, although the Amish avoid public electricity, many families use solar technology to harness the sun’s power and farmhouses often use solar panels that power crucial equipment.
Menno-Hof is at 550 S Van Buren St, Shipshewana, IN 46565.
2- Experience The Shipshewana Auction and Flea Market
Open every Tuesday and Wednesday from May through September, the Shipshewana Flea Market is one of the Midwest’s largest flea markets.
Established in 1922 and with over 700 vendors, you’ll find everything from handmade Amish goods to antiques and traditional treats.
Immerse yourself in the local experience of bidding on antiques, collectibles and handmade goods at one of the Midwest’s largest weekly auctions.
You’ll find tasty Amish-style food at the auction restaurant and food stalls too.
- The Miscellaneous and Antique Auction is at 9 am on Wednesdays.
- The Livestock Auction is from 10 am to 4 pm on Wednesdays.
- The Horse Auctions are on Fridays.
Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market is at 345 S Van Buren St, Shipshewana, IN 46565.
3- Take A Ride In An Amish Buggy
Clip clop through open fields in Amish country on a nostalgic journey through history as your buggy driver tells tales of the past.
Sit back on bench-style seating while your buggy meanders down country lanes past fields and historic farmsteads.
The iconic Amish buggy is a symbol of the Amish commitment to simplicity and a slower-paced life.
It’s a distinctive mode of transportation that has remained relatively unchanged since the early days.
Amish buggies are usually black or grey, made from wood and steel, with an enclosed carriage and large spoked wheels.
Horse-drawn buggy are used for daily tasks such as travelling to downtown Shipshewana, visiting neighbours and attending church services.
4- Follow The Quilt Garden Trail
The Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail are a colourful tapestry that connects quilting, gardening and art.
This unique attraction features more than a million vibrant blooms, 16 gardens and hand-painted giant murals.
They are bursting with colour and open late May through October.
Not only are they pretty to look at, they tell the story of the area’s heritage and community, blending the region’s natural beauty with its quilting traditions.
From annuals to perennials, enjoy the patterns and designs of each garden.
These gardens mimic quilt patterns as a tribute to the skill and artistry of local quilt-makers while being maintained by community groups and volunteers.
5- Go Shopping
The Shipshewana Flea Market is not the only place to shop. Davis Mercantile’s brick-lined walkways and charming storefronts give this shopping centre a nostalgic feel.
Housing an eclectic mix of stores that sell everything from fresh produce to handmade Amish goods to jewellery and crafts, you’re sure to find something to take home as a momento.
Stop by Yoder’s Meat & Cheese Co. to taste award-winning cheeses and meats.
For quilts, visit Yoders Department Store.
Hunt for artisan-made goods at Silver Star Leather, Riverwood Pottery or Teaberry Wood Products.
Discover upcycled pieces at 2 Chicks & a Chair, or vintage pieces, antiques, and collectibles at Cherry Pickers and the year-round Shipshewana Trading Place weekly Wednesday auctions.
6- Indulge in Local Culinary Delights
No visit to Shipshewana is complete without tasting Amish delicacies and you can do this at one of the restaurants and bakeries in town.
Indulge in homemade Amish peanut butter spread on fresh, locally-baked bread and munch on a warm chewy hand-rolled soft pretzel.
Don’t miss out on whoopie pies, fluffy cream filling between two soft, cake-like cookies, and shoofly pie, a molasses-filled sweet dessert.
7- Sample Dandelion Wine
Indulge in local wine at Fruit Hills Winery and Orchard, which is just outside Shipshewana.
This family-owned winery has a selection of fruit wines, from apple to blueberry to peach to dandelion wine.
Relax on their porch with a glass of wine and enjoy the views of the countryside.
8- See A Live Performance at the Blue Gate Theater
Talented musicians, comedians and performers take to the stage in this state-of-the-art venue, which puts on over 300 shows annually.
From tribute shows to musicals and country music, you’re sure to find something that will appeal.
The theatre’s restaurant dishes up Amish-style dishes made from scratch and is a top spot for a pre-show meal.
The Blue Gate Theatre is at 175 N Van Buren St, Shipshewana, IN 46565.
9- Go Hiking
Explore the serene beauty of Indiana’s countryside with a hike around Shipshewana.
The area offers a variety of trails that cater to both novice and keen hikers.
Here are a few trails worth exploring:
Pumpkinvine Nature Trail: This popular trail stretches for nearly 17 miles and connects Shipshewana with Goshen. It offers a smooth, level path for walking and cycling and picturesque views of Amish farms, woodlands, and wetlands.
Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center Trails: A short drive from Shipshewana, Merry Lea has over 8 miles of trails winding through wetlands, prairie and forests. It’s an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.
Bonneyville Mill Park: About 20 minutes from Shipshewana, Bonneyville Mill Park features trails through rolling hills and woodlands. The park is home to the historic Bonneyville Mill, which is still operational and provides a glimpse into the region’s milling history.
Maple Wood Nature Center Trails: This nature centre in nearby LaGrange County has multiple trails ideal for leisurely hikes. The trails traverse forests, wetlands, and open fields, providing a peaceful retreat into nature.
Dallas Lake Park: Another gem in LaGrange County, Dallas Lake Park offers several trails that meander through wooded areas and the lakeshore. It’s an excellent spot for a family hike and includes picnic areas for a post-hike meal.
So pack a picnic and immerse yourself in the natural splendour surrounding Shipshewana.
10- Drift Away on a Boat Tour
With over 70 lakes and miles of navigable rivers, LaGrange County is the perfect summer destination for power boating, canoeing, and kayaking.
Hop on a boat and drift through the tranquil Back Waters of Amish River Country. Fully narrated tours provide fascinating insights into Shipshewana’s ecosystem, history and culture.
Keep an eye out for wildlife like bald eagles, ospreys and beavers.
Soak in the picturesque scenery as you glide along the shimmering waters, experiencing the town from a unique perspective.
12- Visit Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park
At Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park, you can feed the animals and ride a safari-style wagon to see antelopes, zebras, and water buffalo.
The Petting Zoo is great for kids.
14- See A Show At Michiana Event Center
Michiana Event Center (MEC) hosts shows and events throughout the year.
You can attend thrilling rodeos where skilled cowboys and cowgirls showcase their roping, barrel racing and bull riding talents.
If motorsports get your adrenaline pumping, take advantage of the electrifying monster truck rallies and demolition derbies, which always promise high-octane action and edge-of-your-seat thrills.
Family-friendly events include circus performances filled with acrobats and clowns.
There’s always something going on, from concerts by popular artists and dance competitions to trade shows and craft fairs.
15- David Rogers Memorial Park
This picturesque park is a tranquil retreat dedicated to David Rogers, a pioneer and philanthropist who played a significant role in the early development of LaGrange County.
It’s home to six meticulously preserved pioneer log buildings that offer a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity and resilience of the early settlers in LaGrange County.
You can explore the log cabin, blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, trading post, barn and smokehouse.
As you stroll through the park, you’ll discover historic monuments and markers that tell the fascinating story of David Rogers and his contributions to the community.
The park is also a haven for nature lovers, featuring walking trails that meander through woodlands along peaceful streams.
These trails offer perfect opportunities for bird watching and photography, and there are picnic areas and playgrounds.
Look for historical reenactments and educational programs that provide a glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life.
David Rogers Memorial Park is at 2355 W 550 S, Wolcottville, IN 46795.
16- Stutzman Dairy Farm
A unique farm experience on a 6th generation family-owned farm less than a mile from downtown Shipshewana is a fun place to immerse yourself in local culture.
Watch daily milking and learn about local milk products, feed the animals and play with the baby animals.
Stutzman Dairy Farm dates back to the 1880s and began as a small family operation with just a handful of cows.
Stutzman Dairy Farm is at 1360 N 850 W, Shipshewana, IN 46565.
17- Follow The Pumpkinvine Trail
Following the Pumpkinvine Trail is one of the top things to do in Shipshewana.
The 17-mile biking and walking trail connecting Elkhart, Goshen, Middlebury and Shipshewana.
It runs through the beautiful Northern Indiana countryside, with stops along the way to sit in the shade, grab some lunch and see Amish country.
Originally a railway corridor, the trail is well-paved and marked with mile markers, maps, and informational signs.
Refreshments and restroom facilities are available along the way.
Access points along the trail connect it to nearby parks, nature reserves and local attractions.
Spending a day on the trail is a great way to explore.
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