Charming Shipshewana, Indiana
Shipshewana and Middlebury Offer Amish and Modern Attractions
Shipshewana and Middlebury, Indiana, offer a great look at America's heartland. This picturesque area features the best of Amish and contemporary travel destinations.
Shipshewana, Indiana, is a great travel destination for families, couples or retirees. Located in the heart of Amish country in north-central Indiana, Shipshewana and nearby Middlebury feature a terrific variety of activities, restaurants, lodging and shopping.
Amish and Mennonite Country
The Shipshewana area is home to one of the world’s largest Anabaptist communities. The presence of a large number of Amish and Mennonites is certainly evident and there are numerous opportunities to enjoy a small aspect of their lifestyle through buggy ride tours, Amish Home Tours and Amish Home Thresher’s Meals.
Those interested in learning more should consider visiting Meno-Hof. This non-profit learning center offers a more in-depth look at the Anabaptist beliefs that shape the lives of the Amish and Mennonites. They have displays, recreations and multi-image presentations that offer an accurate and historical perspective on the lives of these frequently misunderstood people.
Area Attractions
The area has numerous regular and seasonal attractions. There is live family theater and musical presentations performed each day. Shipshewana is also home to a large indoor water park and resort. Children would enjoy the marionette puppet show theater.
Seasonal events feature a fall crafter's fair, Christmas events, an antique festival, and a MayFest each year.
Restaurants
Restaurants abound in Shipshewana and Middlebury. There is a definite emphasis on home-style cooking, frequently served family-style. There are several large restaurants such as Das Dutchman Essenhaus and The Blue Gate Restaurant which feature family-style dining. The pie lover will think he or she has landed in a little bit of heaven as some of the larger restaurants offer a selection of dozens of pies each day.
The area also features smaller cafes and diners for those looking for a quick bite to eat or who prefer a smaller establishment. There are numerous bakeries for taking a little bit of Amish and Mennonite flavor home.
Lodging
Shipshewana offers a diverse selection of accommodations. Visitors can choose from bed and breakfasts, national chains, local inns and country hotels, conference centers, indoor water parks, and campgrounds. Reservations are critical, especially during peak visitor seasons.
Shopping
Shipshewana is home to the Midwest’s largest flea market each Tuesday and Wednesday from late spring through early fall. The grounds also offer antique, horse and livestock auctions each week. The Shipshewana Flea Market attracts hundreds of vendors and lots of shoppers so plan ahead and be prepared for huge crowds and lots of activity.
Those preferring something a little quieter will enjoy shopping in downtown Shipshewana. There are over 100 shops featuring handmade crafts, antiques, home décor, crafting supplies, quilts, and fine arts. Amish made furniture is a thriving industry in north-central Indiana. There are several shops that feature this beautiful hand-crafted furniture made by those living right in the area.
