10 Things To Do in Shipshewana, Indiana (2023)

Shipshewana is a small town in Northern Indiana with a population of just over 2,000 people. It’s a quaint little place with a lot of history and a lot to do.

The town is most known for its large Amish and Mennonite communities. Visitors can take horse and buggy rides, visit Amish businesses, and learn about the Amish lifestyle.

There are also a number of state parks and lakes in the area for visitors to enjoy. In addition, Shipshewana is home to the world’s second-largest flea market. Here are 21 Things To Do in Shipshewana, Indiana!

Things To Do in Shipshewana At Shipshewana Flea Market

The Shipshewana Flea Market is one of the biggest flea markets in the Midwest, located in Shipshewana, Indiana. The market is open from May through September every year, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8 am to 4 pm.

There are over 700 vendors selling a variety of items such as handmade crafts, antiques, furniture, clothing, jewelry, and more. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy food stands and live entertainment. It is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, attracting up to 35,000 visitors each week.

Flea Market

Things To Do in Shipshewana is Take a horse and Buggy Ride

Taking a horse and buggy ride can be a charming and nostalgic experience, reminding us of a simpler time before cars and technology took over. The steady clip-clop of the horse’s hooves sets a relaxing tempo as the buggy creaks and sways along the road.

Without the sound of an engine, you can hear birds chirping, leaves rustling, and other natural sounds that might have been drowned out otherwise. Depending on where you ride, you might see scenic views of fields, forests, or historic landmarks. It’s a great opportunity to slow down, unwind, and appreciate the world around you.

Things To Do in Shipshewana the Menno-Hof Amish and Mennonite Museum

The Menno-Hof Amish and Mennonite Museum is a museum located in Shipshewana, Indiana, USA. This museum is a unique and informative place that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the history, culture, and faith of the Amish and Mennonite communities. Here are some of the things you can expect to see and learn about in the Menno-Hof Amish and Mennonite Museum:

Interactive Exhibits

This museum has interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get a hands-on experience of Amish and Mennonite culture. You can milk a cow, ride in a buggy, and try on traditional Amish clothing. There are also exhibits that simulate the night sky and showcase the stars that guided the Amish and Mennonite people on their journey to America.

History and Faith

The Menno-Hof Museum explores the history and faith of the Amish and Mennonite communities. Visitors can learn about the origins of these groups, their migration to America, and the challenges they faced in their new country. There are exhibits that explore the religious beliefs and traditions of these communities, including their pacifism and separation from the modern world.

Artifacts and Artwork

The museum has a collection of artifacts and artwork that showcase the material culture of the Amish and Mennonite communities. You can see handcrafted furniture, quilts, and other household items that were made by members of these communities. There is also artwork that depicts the daily life of the Amish and Mennonite people, such as paintings and photographs.

Guided Tours

The Menno-Hof Museum offers guided tours that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Amish and Mennonite culture. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer your questions and provide insights into the history and faith of these communities.

The Menno-Hof Amish and Mennonite Museum is a fascinating place to explore the history, culture, and faith of the Amish and Mennonite communities. Whether you are a history buff or just curious about these communities, this museum is definitely worth a visit!

Things To Do in Shipshewana at the Shipshewana Antique Mall

The Shipshewana Antique Mall is located in Shipshewana, Indiana, and offers a wide variety of vintage items, antiques, and collectibles. The mall features over 26,000 square feet of space and is open year-round. The mall has over 125 vendors, each offering unique treasures and finds, and is one of the largest antique malls in the Midwest. Visitors can find anything from vintage clothing and jewelry, to furniture, glassware, and comics.

In addition to the antique mall, Shipshewana offers a variety of other shops and attractions, including an Amish market and flea market, restaurants, and scenic tours.

Things To Do in Shipshewana at the Davis Mercantile

The Davis Mercantile is a historic shopping and dining destination located in Shipshewana, Indiana. It has been operating since 1906 and features a variety of stores selling handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and home decor items.

The mercantile also has several restaurants serving Amish-style cuisine and other dishes. Visitors can enjoy the old-fashioned charm of the buildings and find unique souvenirs to take home. The Davis Mercantile is open year-round, and hours vary depending on the season.

Things To Do in Shipshewana AT the history of the town at the Shipshewana Town Center

The town of Shipshewana has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. It was founded in 1835 as a small settlement and was named after Chief Shipshewana, a prominent figure in the Potawatomi tribe.

In the late 1800s, the town began to grow thanks to the construction of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad. This brought in new residents and businesses, and Shipshewana became a hub for commerce and agriculture. The town was particularly known for its production of high-quality hardwoods, such as oak and walnut.

In the early 1900s, Shipshewana became a popular tourist destination thanks to its location in the heart of Indiana’s Amish country. Visitors came to admire the town’s well-preserved historic buildings and to witness the Amish way of life up close.

Today, the Shipshewana Town Center serves as a hub for learning about the town’s rich history. The center features exhibits and displays exploring the early settlement of the area, the role of the railroad in the town’s growth, and the Amish way of life.

Visitors can also take guided tours of historic sites throughout the town, including the landmark Blue Gate Theater and the Menno-Hof Amish and Mennonite Information Center.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the fascinating story of one of Indiana’s most charming towns, the Shipshewana Town Center is a must-visit destination.

Also More Read: 15 Fun Things to Do in Lafayette, Indiana

Things To Do in Shipshewana the Blue Gate Theatre

The Blue Gate Theatre is located in Shipshewana, Indiana, and is a popular destination for live performances including concerts, musicals, and comedy shows. The theater is known for its excellent acoustics and comfortable seating arrangements. The theater can accommodate up to 325 guests and offers a range of ticket prices depending on the performance.

To book your tickets for an upcoming show, you can visit the Blue Gate Theatre website or call their box office at (888) 447-4725. Some popular upcoming performances include “A Tribute to the King,” “A Neil Diamond Tribute,” and “The National Quartet Convention.”

Blue Gate Theatre

Things To Do in Shipshewana the Amish countryside

Welcome to the guided tour of the Amish countryside. Today you will experience the peaceful and simple way of life of the Amish people.

First, we will visit the Amish farm, where you can see the traditional red barn and crops being grown without modern equipment. The Amish people use horses and hand tools to farm and maintain their land.

Next, we will stop at an Amish schoolhouse, where you will learn about the importance of education in the Amish community. Here, you can also see how they keep their classrooms simple without modern technology.

After that, we will visit an Amish furniture store, where you can see beautiful and durable handcrafted furniture. The Amish people take great pride in their craftsmanship, and their furniture is known for its quality and durability.

We will then have lunch at an Amish restaurant, where you can taste the famous homemade food, such as chicken pot pie, mashed potatoes, and homemade apple pie.

Finally, we will visit an Amish quilt shop, where you can see the intricate and colorful hand-stitched quilts, which are made without the use of electricity or machines.

Throughout the tour, you will learn about the Amish way of life, their beliefs, and their traditions. This tour offers a unique and eye-opening experience, showcasing the simplicity and beauty of the Amish lifestyle.

Visit Yoder’s Meat & Cheese Company for some delicious Treats

If you’re looking for a tasty treat or a gift for a foodie, be sure to stop by Yoder’s Meat & Cheese Company. Located in southern Ohio, Yoder’s is a family-owned store that offers a wide variety of meats, cheeses, jams, jellies, and other delectable goodies.

One of the highlights of Yoder’s is their selection of smoked meats. Whether you’re in the mood for ham, turkey, or beef, you can find it here. You can also find fresh cuts of beef, pork, and chicken, as well as homemade sausages and brats.

For cheese lovers, Yoder’s is a must-visit destination. They offer a variety of cheeses, from sharp cheddar to creamy brie, and many of them are made locally. You can even watch them make cheese in the store!

They also offer a variety of gourmet foods, including locally made jams and jellies, pickled vegetables, and hot sauces. You can also find homemade baked goods and snacks, like cookies, brownies, and popcorn.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Yoder’s Meat & Cheese Company is a delicious destination for foodies of all ages. So stop by and indulge in some delicious treats!

Things To Do in Shipshewana is Go Birdwatching at the Pine Knob Park

Pine Knob Park is a popular spot for birdwatching in Michigan. The park contains a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, making it an ideal location for a diverse range of bird species to thrive.

Some of the common bird species you can spot at Pine Knob Park include:

  1. Bald Eagle
  2. Red-tailed Hawk
  3. Eastern Bluebird
  4. American Robin
  5. Brown Creeper
  6. Black-capped Chickadee
  7. Northern Flicker
  8. Red-bellied Woodpecker

To get the most out of your birdwatching experience at Pine Knob Park, it’s essential to carry a pair of binoculars and a field guide to help you identify the different bird species. Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon when birds are most active.

Make sure to follow the park’s rules and regulations to avoid disturbing the birds and their habitat. Remember, the goal is not to get close to the birds but to observe and appreciate them from a safe distance.

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