Guide to Visiting Shipshewana Indiana

Shipshewana Indiana, is a captivating destination that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the simplicity and beauty of Amish culture.

Eat Sleep and Play in Shipshewana Indiana

A captivating destination that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the simplicity and beauty of Amish culture.

Located in the heart of Amish Country, Shipshewana offers a unique experience where you can explore the Amish way of life.

Indulge in delicious Amish foods, and discover a wide range of shopping opportunities.

A horse harnessed to a black buggy, waiting under a shelter near RV parks in Shipshewana.

As you venture through Shipshewana and LaGrange County, you’ll be surrounded by picturesque Amish farms and be welcomed into the thriving community of Amish businesses.

Take the time to appreciate the lasting traditions and time-honored craftsmanship that define this remarkable destination.

A large red and beige restaurant with a white fence under a cloudy blue sky.

Shipshewana Indiana Summary

Shipshewana, Indiana, is a hub for experiencing Amish culture and lifestyle.
Indulge in the delicious Amish foods and specialty items available.
Explore the variety of shopping opportunities, from quaint downtown shops to locally produced goods.
Immerse yourself in the simple and peaceful way of life embraced by the Amish community.
Discover the heart of Amish Country in Shipshewana, Indiana.

Rustic outdoor display featuring an antique metal sign, a wooden chair, a rusty barrel, and colorful flower arrangements.

Things to Do in Shipshewana Indiana

When visiting Shipshewana, Indiana, there are plenty of exciting activities and attractions to keep you entertained.

Explore the vibrant charm of this Amish Country destination and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Cariloha store exterior with signage, showcasing an accessible entrance and bamboo-themed decorations.

Here are some top recommendations for things to do in Shipshewana:

Shipshewana Indiana Outdoor Flea Market and Auction

Make sure to visit the renowned Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market, the Midwest’s largest flea market.

Visitors walking through an outdoor market with stalls and an american flag flying in the background on a sunny day.

With over 700 vendors, you’ll find a wide range of unique items, from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts and local produce.

Colorful mural on the side of a building welcoming visitors to shipshewana, with people sitting on benches in front.

Spend the day browsing the stalls and hunting for hidden treasures.

Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park

If you’re traveling with family, a visit to Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park is a must.

This interactive petting zoo features a variety of exotic and farm animals, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Feed the animals, take a wagon ride, and create unforgettable memories.

A welcome sign to dutch creek farm animal park above a photo of an elk grazing in a field.

With these exciting attractions and activities, Shipshewana, Indiana, offers a memorable and immersive experience for visitors.

Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or exploring the local culture, this charming Amish Country destination has something for everyone.

Amish Dining and Food Experiences Shipshewana Indiana Restaurants

One of the highlights of visiting Shipshewana, Indiana, is the opportunity to indulge in Amish dining and food experiences.

To truly immerse yourself in the Amish culture, consider enjoying a meal in an Amish home.

Options like Hoosier Banquets or Buggy Lane Tours offer the chance to savor authentic Amish dishes and experience the warm hospitality of an Amish family.

This unique dining experience allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the Amish way of life.

If you’re looking to sample some delicious Amish specialty foods, make sure to visit Heritage Ridge Creamery.

This local creamery not only offers a wide selection of artisanal cheeses but also provides delightful cheese samples for you to savor.

Additionally, they have an array of Amish specialty foods that are perfect for taking home as souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.

Rise N Roll Bakery and Deli

No visit to Shipshewana is complete without a stop at Rise ‘N Roll Bakery.

Exterior of a bakery and deli with parked cars and interior view showcasing an assortment of bakery items.

This beloved bakery is famous for its mouthwatering cinnamon caramel donuts and other delectable handmade baked goods.

From pies and bread to cookies and pastries, every treat at Rise ‘N Roll Bakery is made with love and care, ensuring a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Choose to dine in an Amish home or explore the local creamery and bakery.

Shipshewana’s Amish dining and food experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Culinary delights offer a window into the Amish culture and traditions.

Allowing you to savor the flavors and hospitality of this unique community.

Vanilla Bean Creamery

Vanilla Bean Creamery in Shipshewana, Indiana, is a charming ice cream parlor that offers a delightful escape into a world of nostalgia and sweetness.

Handcrafted with care using premium ingredients, their artisanal ice cream comes in a tantalizing array of flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Beyond the delicious treats, the parlor provides a welcoming space for the community to gather, fostering connections and creating cherished memories.

Stay for a bit and play a few games.

With its commitment to tradition, quality, and genuine hospitality, Vanilla Bean Creamery is more than just a destination, it’s an experience to savor and share.

Das Dutchman Essenhaus

Located in Middlebury, Das Dutchman Essenhaus is a must-visit restaurant known for its pies and homestyle American food.

Whether you choose to order from the menu, enjoy the buffet, or opt for family-style dining, you’ll be treated to a delicious meal.

The Essenhaus also offers gift shops, a bakery, classic car cruise-ins, horse and buggy rides, and a theater.

Assorted baked goods on display and views of an empty restaurant's interior.

Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a delectable slice of pie, Das Dutchman Essenhaus has something to satisfy every appetite.

While dining, make sure to explore the gift shops, indulge in the bakery’s sweet treats, and catch a performance at the theater. It’s a true destination for food, fun, and entertainment.

Complete Dining Experience

Experience the warmth of Amish hospitality and savor the flavors of traditional American cuisine at Das Dutchman Essenhaus.

A person standing by a car in front of "das dutchman essenhaus," an amish country-style restaurant offering banquets, a bakery, and gifts.

The food was amazing as was the bakery. Choose from table service or buffet.

A collage of images showcasing food items from 'essenhaus', including a sign, a plate with ribs and onion rings, a serving of apple dumpling with caramel sauce, and an assortment of frosted donuts.

BlueGate Restaurant & Theatre

For a taste of Amish and Mennonite cuisine, head to the BlueGate Restaurant & Blue Gate Theatre.

Indulge in delicious home-cooked meals while enjoying live entertainment.

From traditional comfort foods to mouthwatering desserts, this iconic establishment offers a true taste of the region.

White two-story building with restaurant signage, adorned with red, white, and blue bunting, surrounded by greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Shipshewana Attractions: Downtown Shipshewana and Shopping

Immerse yourself in the charm and character of downtown Shipshewana.

You’ll find a delightful array of shops, cafes, and boutiques.

Yoder’s Red Barn Shoppes

The Red Barn was just one of my favorites.

Red barn-like building housing various businesses including wana fancy foam chair, r&d bargains, and red bud gifts coffee tea cafe, with a posted store hours sign, bicycle parked outside, and landscaped green shrubbery.

This charming area is a must-visit for those seeking unique treasures and a taste of local culture.

A cozy indoor corridor with wood flooring, featuring a staircase on the left, boutique and café signs, and sandwich boards with written offerings.

Exploring Harrison Street

One of the highlights of downtown Shipshewana is Harrison Street, a vibrant hub of shopping and dining.

As you stroll along this picturesque street, you’ll discover a variety of stores that cater to a wide range of interests.

A view from a car showing a commercial building with signs for "craft barn" and "christmas showroom," under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

From quaint home decor boutiques to artisan craft shops, Harrison Street offers a delightful shopping experience.

Take your time to browse through the carefully curated selection of goods, including handcrafted pottery, locally made jewelry, and one-of-a-kind artwork.

Davis Mercantile: A Shopper’s Paradise

If you’re looking for a one-stop shopping destination, look no further than Davis Mercantile.

Exterior view of davis mercantile, a rustic two-story building with a wooden façade and ornate iron balcony railings.

This historic building houses a collection of unique stores, each offering its own specialty items.

An assortment of handbags on display in a retail store with clothing racks in the background.

At Davis Mercantile, you’ll find everything from delicious treats at JoJo’s Pretzels and Aunt Millie’s Chocolate & Candy to handmade quilts, toys, and clothing.

It’s the perfect place to find souvenirs, gifts for loved ones, or something special for yourself.

Yoder’s Shopping Center: Convenience and Delights

Yoder’s Shopping Center is another must-visit location in downtown Shipshewana.

This bustling complex offers a range of shopping experiences, all under one roof.

Explore the department stores for a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and household items.

You’ll also find a hardware store with all your DIY needs and a delightful bakery.

The Dutch Coffee Cup, where you can indulge in freshly baked goods and a warm cup of coffee.

A serving of apple pie topped with whipped cream and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, placed on a white plate with a caramel drizzle.

In search of unique finds, or delicious treats, or simply want to soak up the atmosphere of a quaint Amish town, downtown Shipshewana is the place to be.

Explore the streets, discover hidden gems, and take home a piece of this charming destination.

Educational Experiences in Shipshewana Indiana

When visiting Shipshewana, Indiana, there are several educational experiences that offer insights into the Amish and Mennonite cultures.

One notable destination is the Menno-Hof Amish/Mennonite Information Center.

This center provides a comprehensive look at the faith and life of the Amish and Mennonite communities through engaging displays and exhibits.

For a more personal and immersive experience, Amish Country Guided Tours offer visitors the opportunity to explore working farms, shops, and homes within the Amish community.

Sign advertising buggy rides, amish home-cooked meals, and dairy farm tours with a phone number for inquiries.

These guided tours allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Amish culture and traditions, as well as interact with local Amish residents.

Menno-Hof Amish/Mennonite Information Center

I wanted to go on the Amish Farm and House Tour, but the tour was closed that day. 🙁

Amish Country Guided Tours

Tour Options	Duration	Price per Person
Amish Farm and House Tour	2.5 hours	$35
Amish Artisans and Homestead Tour	3.5 hours	$45
Ultimate Amish Experience Tour	5 hours	$60

“Visiting the Menno-Hof Amish/Mennonite Information Center was an eye-opening experience. The exhibits provided a deep understanding of the Amish way of life, and the staff was knowledgeable and friendly. I highly recommend taking an Amish Country Guided Tour to get a firsthand look at the Amish community and their traditions. It was a truly enriching and educational journey.” – Jane

With these educational experiences, visitors to Shipshewana can gain a greater appreciation for the Amish and Mennonite culture, further enhancing their trip to Amish Country.

Quilt and Mural Trails

Shipshewana, Indiana, is not only known for its rich Amish culture and delicious food but also for its unique art trails.

Visitors can explore the Barn Quilt Trail, featuring over 30 hand-painted quilt murals scattered throughout LaGrange County.

A colorful floral quilt pattern displayed in a park with green hills in the background.

These vibrant and intricate murals add a touch of beauty to the countryside, showcasing the region’s artistic talent and celebrating the heritage of quilting.

Each quilt mural tells a story and invites visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity of the local community.

Quilt Mural Examples:

Mural Name	Location	Description
Star of Bethlehem	Amish Farm	A stunning representation of the iconic Star of Bethlehem quilt pattern, symbolizing the Amish faith and heritage.
Tulip Garden	Small Town Park	Colorful tulip-shaped quilt blocks create a vibrant garden scene, capturing the beauty of spring in Shipshewana.
Ohio Star	Historic Downtown	A classic Ohio Star quilt pattern adorns a building in downtown Shipshewana, paying homage to the region’s quilting traditions.

In addition to the Barn Quilt Trail, visitors can also explore the Walldog Murals in Shipshewana.

These 16 stunning wall murals depict the history and culture of the community, showcasing its agricultural roots, vibrant heritage, and close-knit community.

Each mural is a work of art, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the town and its people.

From large-scale depictions of horse-drawn buggies to scenes of traditional farming practices, the Walldog Murals bring the stories of Shipshewana to life.

Walldog Mural Examples:

Mural Name	Location	Description
Harvest Time	Main Street	A mural capturing the beauty of autumn and the hard work of harvesting crops, showcasing the importance of agriculture in the community.
The Amish Quilter	Downtown Area	A tribute to the Amish quilting tradition, featuring a skilled quilter meticulously working on a colorful quilt.
Community Celebration	Community Center	A lively mural depicting a vibrant community gathering, showcasing the spirit of togetherness and celebration in Shipshewana.

Whether you choose to explore the beautiful quilt murals or immerse yourself in the town’s history through the Walldog Murals, Shipshewana’s art trails offer a unique and visually captivating experience for visitors to enjoy.

Shipshewana Indiana Amish Food and Grocery Stores

Shipshewana, Indiana, offers a variety of options for those looking to experience authentic Amish food and stock up on groceries.

Two notable stores in the area are E&S Sales and Yoder’s Meat & Cheese.

E&S Sales

E&S Sales is an Amish-owned bulk food store that provides visitors with a wide range of options.

From home-style noodles to an extensive selection of cheese, E&S Sales offers a taste of traditional Amish fare.

Whether you’re looking for pantry staples or unique ingredients, this store’s diverse selection is sure to satisfy your culinary needs.

Yoder’s Meat & Cheese

Yoder’s Meat & Cheese is another must-visit store in Shipshewana.

Here, you’ll find farm-fresh meat, over 100 varieties of cheese, and a variety of other Amish specialty foods.

It’s the perfect place to stock up on delicious ingredients for your meals or to find unique gifts to bring back home.

A collage of images from a meat shop, showcasing a deli counter with various cuts of meat, packaged meats in a freezer, shelves with assorted products, and a refrigerator filled with stacks of meat boxes.

Exploring these Amish food and grocery stores is not only a gastronomic adventure but also an opportunity to support local businesses and experience the richness of Amish culture.

So, don’t miss the chance to indulge in the flavors of Shipshewana during your visit.

Shipshewana RV Parks

If you are looking to stay in Shipshewana Indiana in your RV, then there are a few campgrounds to choose from.

We ended up staying at Shipshewana Campground South Park and were highly impressed.

Electronic signboard announces the "shipshewana campground south park" is now open, under a clear blue sky.

While there, we were able to get our Aquahot serviced right at the campground.

Head over to our complete Shipshewana RV Parks post to find out more.

Two horses grazing in a sunny pasture with trees and a blue fence in the background.

Shipshewana Hotels

Shipshewana offers a range of hotels and lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences.

Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, there’s a hotel in Shipshewana that’s perfect for you.

When it comes to hotels in Shipshewana, you can expect a comfortable stay with a variety of amenities.

Many hotels in the area offer free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, and even pet-friendly options.

With an average rating of 3.8 based on 5030 reviews, you can trust that these accommodations have been enjoyed by many satisfied guests.

Exterior view of davis hotel with a large sign, under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Some of the popular hotel choices in Shipshewana include the Blue Gate Garden Inn, Van Buren Hotel, Super 8 by Wyndham Shipshewana, and the Farmstead Inn and Conference Center.

These hotels offer a comfortable stay and are conveniently located near popular attractions and amenities.

Explore the Heart of Amish Country in Shipshewana Indiana

Shipshewana, Indiana, is a captivating destination that offers a truly immersive experience in Amish Country.

Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of Amish culture, the delicious Amish foods, or the abundance of unique shopping opportunities, this charming town has it all.

Shipshewana serves as a hub for Amish businesses. It is surrounded by picturesque Amish farms, making it the perfect place to explore and discover.

Dutch Country Market

Discover Dutch Country Market in Shipshewana, Indiana, where tradition and authenticity thrive.

From the aroma of freshly baked goods to the rows of handcrafted treasures, this market offers a journey into the heart of Amish and Mennonite culture.

Embrace the commitment to quality and community as you indulge in homemade delights, explore artisanal goods, and connect with local artisans and fellow shoppers.

Experience the flavors of the region with famous cheeses made from local dairy farms.

Dutch Country Market is more than just a market; it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and community that’s worth savoring.

Two images: the top shows a red barn with a "dutch country" sign, and the bottom displays a storefront with a horse-drawn buggy parked outside.

Conclusion

With its wide range of attractions and activities, Shipshewana provides endless entertainment for visitors.

From browsing the largest flea market in the Midwest at the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market to indulging in mouthwatering Amish and Mennonite cooking at the Blue Gate Restaurant & Theatre, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Entrance to the shipshewana flea market at gate 1 against a clear sky.

Families can also delight in the Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park. Where exotic and farm animals come together for an unforgettable experience.

To truly immerse yourself in the Amish culture, don’t miss the opportunity to dine in an Amish home or explore the rich history at the Menno-Hof Amish/Mennonite Information Center.

The Barn Quilt Trail and Walldog Murals provide unique art trails for visitors to admire, showcasing the creativity and storytelling of the community.

And of course, no visit to Shipshewana would be complete without sampling the delicious Amish specialty foods and exploring the local food and grocery Mennonite stores.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Shipshewana promises a memorable and enriching journey.

Plan your trip to this enchanting destination with our comprehensive travel guide.

Make the most of your next visit to Shipshewana, Indiana, and the heart of Amish Country.