In the northeast corner of Indiana, bordering Michigan and not quite to Ohio, is a land of farms and lakes. A highway runs through it. If you don’t get off the interstate, you might think there’s nothing to see.
Oh, how wrong you’d be.
Shipshewana and LaGrange County is a popular destination and an easy day trip from Chicago and multiple large cities.
But this is a place worth more than a quick visit.
Home to the third largest Amish population in the United States, there are so many things to do in Shipshewana.
It’s a place where you’ll want to spend some time. Unwind. Relax. Disconnect from hectic daily life and try out a slower pace.
You’ll find miles of trails and acres of lakes, live entertainment, and the Midwest’s largest flea market. Stock up on fresh produce and breathe in fresh air.
You can feed bison and fill your belly, discover quilt barns and quilting bees. Enjoy the polished feel of beloved antiques and the sharp scent of new handmade furniture.
Welcome to Indiana Amish Country.
LaGrange County is the heart of Indiana Amish Country. To visit is to step into a simpler time, among people who live simply.
Life is slower. Traffic jams involve buggies. Furniture is hewn from hardwood. Quilts are art. Even the food is simple: peanut butter, mashed potatoes, chicken and noodles, pie.
But simple living doesn’t mean boring. In Shipshewana and the surrounding communities, simple means intentional.
The furniture is sturdy. Reclaiming and repurposing are a way of life. When it comes to the food, it also means delicious. There’s a reason Amish cuisine is prized.
In a time of constant demands for our attention, of “hustle culture” and 24/7 access to information, of phones and tablets buzzing with notifications, of social media and apps and endless digital distractions, sometimes you just want to shut it all off and BE.
This is a place where you can do that. It’s a place where you can see the mist rise off the fields in the morning and, in the evening, witness the sun dip to the horizon as a farmer drives a horse-drawn plow.
But a visit to Shipshewana and LaGrange County isn’t all rocking chairs and pie (although if it were, that wouldn’t be a bad thing).
In this guide, we’ll explore this fascinating area that’s home to Amish culture and within three hours of several major cities and millions of people.
Are you ready? Enough chit-chat. Let’s discover Shipshewana.
My visit to Shipshewana was hosted by the LaGrange County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, but all opinions are my own and not influenced at all by horsies and pie.
Top Things to do in Shipshewana
Tips for driving in Indiana Amish Country
Because of LaGrange County’s significant Amish population, you’ll see lots of horse-drawn carriages and bicyclists. Be careful and aware while driving.
Navigating the county is fairly simple, as there are several north-south and east-west roads. Everything starts with US 20 and State Road 9. East and West roads are oriented around SR 9, and the dividing line for North and South roads is US 20. Each 100 is one mile. So 100 North means 1 mile north of US 20.
Easy, right?
There are a few diagonal and curved roads, but for the most part, it’s easy to get around.
Here are some tips to make driving in Amish country better for everyone.
- Take your time; pedestrians, buggies, and bikes are also sharing the road.
- Give yourself longer to brake—horses can’t compete with automotive speed.
- Resist the urge to pass a buggy on curves or hills; it’s not worth the risk.
- Give a buggy plenty of room at intersections; horses can reverse without warning.
- Be careful when overtaking a buggy; the driver’s field of vision is quite limited.
- Horses are unpredictable. Exercise caution when nearing them.
- Keep an eye out for reflective markings on buggies, especially when driving at night.
Off the Beaten Path Driving Tours
What better way to get the lay of the land than to see the land. Take a driving tour and go on a rural scavenger hunt, searching for barn quilts and Amish shops while exploring the beautiful northern Indiana countryside.
The Barn Quilt Trail starts in Shipshewana and connects six communities around the county. Many of these colorful squares are on the sides of barns, as you’d expect, and others are in more unexpected places, like a log cabin in a campground.
Begun as a way to enhance the Shipshewana Quilt Festival, the Trail is now a draw on its own. It’s simultaneously thrilling and relaxing to drive past farms and fields and encounter one of these works of art.
The history of barn quilts dates back to early Pennsylvania immigrants. It’s said the patterns were used to celebrate heritage as well as navigational tools. Since 2001, they’ve become increasingly popular.
As you’re driving from one town to the next to find the next quilt, take some time to stop at one of the many county parks, grab a bite to eat, and maybe even row on the Pigeon River for a bit.
You could also go shopping. If you see a sign selling crafts, baked goods, or other items, feel free to pull over–unless it’s a Sunday.
Amish goods are another reason people visit LaGrange County, and the Amish Shop Trail makes it easy to find them. This trail is primarily on the western side of the county, where the concentration of Amish live.
You can download a map featuring all the stops on both of these trails, as well as additional places to eat and drink, at visitshipshewana.org.
I also recommend picking up a paper map at the visitor’s center. And while you’re there, you can check one of those barn quilts off your list.
Learn the Story of the Amish at Menno-Hof
One of your first stops when you visit Indiana Amish Country should be Menno-Hof Amish & Mennonite Story. This non-profit information center tells the stories of the Anabaptists, from their origins in Switzerland to the Mennonites, Amish, and Hutterites of today.
Menno-Hof opened in 1988, prompted by the many questions attendees of the Shipshewana Flea Market had about the local population.
Inside, Menno-Hof takes you through five centuries of history, but it’s not done in a dry manner. Instead, there are interactive displays: you’ll sit in a medieval dungeon, explore a 17th century ship, and see what a 19th century printing shop was like.
You can experience what a tornado feels like, and view a replica of an Amish home.
Menno-Hof is open Monday through Saturday. A guided tour lasts about an hour and fifteen minutes. It’s located on State Road 5 (South Van Buren) across the street from the flea market and down the road from the Visit Shipshewana visitors’ center.
Be sure to stop at the gift shop. It’s filled with locally-made items.
Outdoor Things to do in Shipshewana
One of the best ways to slow down is to get outside. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities for enjoying Mother Nature in LaGrange County.
As you’re driving along the backcountry roads, searching for quilt barns or Amish cottage shops, you’ll find hiking trails, public beaches, lakes just waiting for your fishing rod, and even an archery range.
There’s also a bison ranch, where you can feed the nation’s mammal, and an animal park where you can meet—and feed – all sorts of other creatures.
History buffs will love discovering pioneer log buildings which have been relocated from around the county. You can go canoeing, kayaking, and hunting, and ride your bike.
With nearly two-dozen lakes and miles of trails, if your idea of a great vacation includes some time in the fresh air, LaGrange County’s got you covered.
Cook’s Bison Ranch
If you’re fascinated by the national mammal, then planning a visit to Cook’s Bison Ranch is a must. This is one of many unique things to do in Shipshewana, because not only do you get to see the animals, you get to feed them.
This family-owned business is a working bison ranch, so check their website or call ahead, because they don’t have a regular tour schedule.
LaGrange County Parks
LaGrange County has plenty of parks and nature preserves, offering a variety of experiences.
Started in 1969, the LaGrange County Department of Parks & Recreation has carefully developed a series of outdoor settings that mix cultural richness with nature’s beauty.
These ten park properties include public beaches, nature preserves, and lots of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including picnic areas, archery and disc-golf.
Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park
Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park is a hands-on animal park where you can feed a variety of species from deer to zebras. Ideal for families, it offers educational animal shows and a petting zoo area.
You can tour the entire farm in your own vehicle or via a horse-drawn wagon. If you want to feed the animals, the wagon’s the way to go.
Canoeing and Kayaking
LaGrange County’s a paddler’s paradise. The Fawn River is one of Indiana’s clearest and most natural rivers, and it flows through the northern part of LaGrange County.
T & L Country Canoes will rent you canoes or kayaks so you can enjoy some time on the water and see unspoiled country. You can rent a vessel for as little as an hour (min. 2 vessels) or up to seven hours.
Head to Mongo and Trading Post Outfitters and travel through the Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area. They offer four different trips, including one that’s for thirteen miles and meant for experienced paddlers.
They also have a beautiful campground on the Pigeon River with both primitive sites and those with hookups.
Hunt and Fish
Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area is nearly 12,000 acres, including seventeen miles of free-flowing river. A dedicated area for hunting and fishing, the preserve requires a state license for both activities.
It offers a variety of fish, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, and game such as deer, pheasant, wild turkey, and waterfowl. There’s also a shooting range.
If you just want to view the wildlife, head to the L2 parking lot and the Waterfowl Resting Area overlook. Canoeing and kayaking are permitted, but some areas are restricted during waterfowl season.
Like LaGrange County parks, foraging for mushrooms, berries, and nuts is allowed.
Hike or Bike
Want some exercise after indulging in JoJo’s Pretzels at Davis Mercantile? Walk a couple blocks to the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail.
The Pumpkin Vine Railroad, so named because of its twists and turns, served the area for a century before shutting down in 1980.
Today, it’s a paved biking and walking trail that stretches from Goshen through Middlebury to Shipshewana. Its nearly seventeen miles pass through farmlands and forests, offering both scenery and a well-maintained path.
Shopping in Shipshewana and LaGrange County
Shopping in Shipshewana is a true delight, even if, like me, you don’t consider yourself a shopper. This is a place where commerce intertwines with culture and tradition.
Whether you leave with full bags or simply with memories and insights, the experience is unique and enriching.
One important note: Shipshewana closes down on Sundays. If shopping is part of your itinerary, plan to visit the other days of the week.
Shipshewana Flea Market
More than just a place to find bargains, the Shipshewana Flea Market is the largest flea market in the Midwest.
With over 700 vendors and a history stretching more than a century, this market is a piece of the area’s history and a vital part of the community.
The Shipshewana Flea Market takes place from May through September and is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Davis Mercantile
Speaking of community, another must-stop is Davis Mercantile. It’s more than just four floors of amazing shops featuring unique items.
It’s a family-owned business in a structure built in an old-fashioned barn raising after a devastating fire. Don’t miss the vintage carousel on the top floor.
Downtown Shipshewana
As you stroll around downtown Shipshewana, the sheer number of shops is mind-boggling. In addition to Davis Mercantile are several boutiques lining the streets.
The main shopping drags are Harrison Street and Morton Street. There are antique, clothing, home goods, and quilting shops, and furniture stores.
Amish Cottage Shops
As you’re driving the back roads of LaGrange County, keep your eyes peeled for signs advertising goods. These are known as “shingle shops,” so named because they hang a shingle on the side of the road.
You can find a whole variety of products, including baked goods and quilts. And, as Rebecca Haarer said, “if you see a sign that says ‘eggs for sale,’ go buy some.”
Quilt and Fabric Shops
If you’re a quilter, or interested in learning, you’ve hit the jackpot. Quilting shops can be found all over the county, but primarily in Shipshewana.
Downtown you’ll find Lolly’s Fabrics inside Davis Mercantile and Rebecca Haarer Arts and Antiques on Morton Street. You can pick up a brochure listing area shops at the visitor’s center.
Lehman’s Variety Store
Lehman’s Variety Store is aptly named; it’s got a huge variety of goods on its shelves. Catering to the Amish, the store carries battery-operated appliances and fans, toys, books, canning supplies, linens—pretty much everything you’d need to supply a house in the country.
Lehman’s is on a dirt road behind a farmhouse. There’s a sign, but it’s easy to miss.
E & S Sales
Just south of the Shipshewana Flea Market, E & S Sales is easy to find. The Amish-owned bulk foods store offers a wide range of items—from various cuts of meat and an array of cheeses to home-style noodles made on-site.
Shoppers can also find a comprehensive selection of baking essentials such as spices, nuts, and flours, along with a variety of jams, jellies, and snacks.
Fresh produce and freshly baked items round out the offerings, making it a one-stop shop.
Dining in LaGrange County
Pack your stretchy pants for your visit to Shipshewana, because when you eat in Amish Country, you won’t go hungry. The area’s known for hearty cuisine and generous portions.
Blue Gate Restaurant and Bakery
If you’ve heard of Shipshewana, you’ve probably heard of Blue Gate Restaurant and Bakery. The dining room can seat almost as many people as the town has residents, and the bakery has more varieties of pie and baked goods than you could finish in a month.
The Blue Gate Restaurant specializes in home-style Amish cuisine. You can order off the menu or go all-in with one of their buffets.
Signature items include Blue Gate Fried Chicken (highly, highly recommend), roast beef, mashed potatoes, noodles, beans, corn, and other hearty options. It’s basically an all-you-can-eat homage to comfort food, Midwest-style.
The Carriage House
If you want to get a true Amish country experience, have dinner in an Amish home.
The Carriage House is a mother-and-son team that hosts Amish family wedding feasts and other special events. Elaine will even teach you how to make cinnamon rolls.
You’ll need to plan in advance for this one, but it’s worth it. It’s one of the best things to do in Shipshewana.
Shipshewana Auction Restaurant
If you’re in Shipshewana for the auction and flea market, do yourself a favor and stop at the Shipshewana Auction Restaurant. It’s right next to the action, making it an easy stop between rounds of bargaining.
The menu is a mix of Amish favorites and classic American comfort food. Think fried chicken that’s crispy and juicy. And don’t even get me started on the pies—apple and rhubarb are the stars here.
Best part? Most of the ingredients come from local farms, so you’re getting a real taste of the area.
Arts & Entertainment in Shipshewana
Shipshewana’s entertainment scene is vibrant and a perfect encapsulation of this complex area. There are live performances, big name entertainers, rodeos, and more.
Art is on public display with several murals in LaGrange County’s communities, especially the series painted by the Walldogs.
There are also many barn quilts, which you can discover while taking one of the driving tours.
Blue Gate Music Hall and Blue Gate Performing Arts Center
Located conveniently above the Blue Gate Restaurant, the Blue Gate Music Hall (formerly Blue Gate Theatre) seats 325 and specializes in Broadway-style musicals. There are also concerts, and in this intimate space, there isn’t a bad spot in the house.
Down the road next to Blue Gate Garden Inn, the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center (PAC) is where the big artists come to play. This 1500-seat venue attracts nationally touring artists like Marina McBride, Marie Osmond, and STYX.
Michiana Event Center
The Michiana Event Center, commonly known as the MEC, is a key entertainment venue in LaGrange County.
The center’s coliseum can seat up to 6,000 people, accommodating a diverse lineup of events, and they’ve got a 100,000 square foot trade show area.
Murals of LaGrange County
If you’re from the Midwest, or have driven through a few small towns, you might have noticed that murals have become increasingly popular.
Towns like Dubuque, Iowa; Delavan, Wisconsin; and Pontiac, Illinois are a miniscule sampling of communities who have turned bland buildings into works of art.
So has Shipshewana.
Many of these murals are painted by a group called Walldogs, a collection of talented muralists who travel the country to make it more beautiful. Not only are these murals attractive, they also tell the stories of the communities.
Walldogs came to Shipshewana in 2014. The collection of sixteen murals they created introduce you to important figures in the area’s past.
These aren’t the only murals in town. Stroll through the Shipshewana Flea Market and you’ll see a few that were added in 2023.
Over in the county seat of LaGrange are even more, as well as in Howe. Each one helps to bring the past to life.
You can take a self-guided walking tour to view most of the Walldogs murals in Shipshewana. There are maps at the visitor’s center.
LaGrange County and Indiana Amish Country are magical places inviting you to slow down, reconnect, and rejuvenate.
Discover even more things to do in Shipshewana with my curated, full-color guidebook!
Show Me Shipshewana
Are you ready to plan a visit to Shipshewana? Then you’ll need Show Me Shipshewana: a Guide to Indiana Amish Country.
Show Me Shipshewana: a Guide to Indiana Amish Country invites you to step away from the frenzied pace of day-to-day life. You’re invited to relax. To eat (a lot). To enjoy connecting with your loved ones, with nature, and with yourself.
Show Me Shipshewana is more than a travel book; it’s a companion that invites you to experience the third largest Amish community in the world and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Get your copy today and you’ll be planning your Shipshewana getaway!