Things To Do

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your life here in Shipshewana? A: What most people don’t know is that not only do I have a catering business and bakery but I also live on about 300 acres in Lagrange where I raise Beefalo and bale 110 acres of hay with my husband […]

The origins of the Davis Mercantile building can be traced back to 1891, when original owner Hezekiah Davis built a hotel near the train station to house travelers. What followed was more than 130 years of prosperity, growth, new ownership, relocation, the addition of retail enterprises, a devastating fire, uncertainty, rebuilding, ingenuity, new growth, and […]

The Fall Crafters Fair, located inside the Michiana Event Center, is an exhibition and celebration of our talented local artists and craftspeople, as well as the slower-paced culture of Shipshewana and the surrounding countryside. You’ll find artisans, vintage sellers, hand-made items, personalized gifts, and much more! Vendors surround talented musicians and entertainers, while on the […]

There’s one from Dutch Creek Animal Farm.   And there’s one from Trading Post outfitters in Mongo.  

When the MEC (Michiana Event Center) built it’s new facility in Shipshewana, the motto was Bringing BIG to Michiana, and boy, they weren’t kidding. The multi-purpose venue hosts everything from the concerts of world-class musicians to rodeos, and from enormous craft fairs to holiday spectaculars, it’s become a true destination for big events and entertainment. […]

When people hear the name Shipshewana, they associate it with Amish craftsmanship, buggies, good food, beautiful quilts, amazing shopping, and most likely at least one of the properties run by the Blue Gate Hospitality Company. Currently that list includes a bakery, a restaurant, a theater, a large Performing Arts Center, carriages, a resort-type hotel, and […]

The beneficial relationship between Purple Martins, a type of sparrow, and humans goes back hundreds of years in North America. Purple Martins are voracious consumers of insects, especially mosquitoes, and early Native Americans figured out that attracting them to their land was beneficial to all the people and animals that lived there. Historically, Purple Martins […]

LAGRANGE — “Paddle for Parkview” is back for its 14th year on Friday, Aug. 25. People who enjoy being out on the water in canoes and kayaks are encouraged to register for the event now. Register before Aug. 18 by visiting Parkview.com/LaGrangePaddle. Paddlers are encouraged to share photos from their experience on the river with […]

The LaGrange County Habitat for Humanity is hosting its 27th annual benefit auction on Friday in Shipshewana, starting at 4 p.m. Funds raised from the auction will go toward funding for the organization’s operation, and will in part go toward putting a family in a new home. While the Habitat for Humanity in LaGrange does […]

If either photography or painting is a favorite pastime, LaGrange County needs to be the destination for your next trip. Whether you prefer landscapes, classic architecture, gorgeous farm sunrises, interesting portrait opportunities, or amazingly photogenic animals, there are subjects to be had everywhere you turn. A recent quick stop at Dutch Creek in Shipshewana inspired […]

The term ‘Cottage Shop’ in LaGrange County refers to the many Amish-run businesses that you can find scattered throughout the beautiful backroads surrounding Shipshewana, LaGrange, Middlebury and almost any area where the Amish way of life is prevalent. They are typically small stores next to their homes and workshops, and the products they make and […]

Visiting Shipshewana soon? In September, you’re liable to hear the kind of catchy music that makes you want to get up and dance. For those who love to get out there and play music with others, we’ve got The MEC’s Weekly Food Truck Rally and Jam Session. Every Wednesday until September 15th, you can bring […]

One of the most attractive things about visiting LaGrange County is its wide-open spaces. The gorgeous landscapes, beautiful scenery, and large populations of both domestic and wild animals mean there’s always something new to hold your attention. And there are so many ways to experience your surroundings here: buggy, bike, walking paths, trails, but one […]

Need a great story idea? We’re here to help! Choose from the categories and suggestions below and contact us for the info and illustrative pieces you need. Need info on a topic that you don’t see here? Contact us and we’ll assist with whatever you need!   Historical: The History of Shipshewana The Story of Davis […]

Whether you like soaking up the summer heat or playing in the snow, there’s something to enjoy every season in Shipshewana & LaGrange County. While events, attractions, and activities dot the calendar year-round, we summed it up with 10 reasons why you should visit us! Live Entertainment Every year the level of entertainment we host […]

The holidays come early in Shipshewana, and we LOVE it!! At the end of October, the elves are out hanging lights and decorating all over town. It’s a nice mix of fall and Christmas décor for a period of time, but once November arrives it’s an all-out Christmas extravaganza here in Shipshe! Just in time […]

Typically when you roll into Shipshewana, you’re greeted by endless farms and open fields. The natural beauty here in Northern Indiana can often be underappreciated: many people aren’t aware of hidden gems like the Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area or our many lakes. Follow this scenic fall drive in Shipshewana & LaGrange County and […]

Shipshewana brings simple living, Amish hospitality, amazing shopping, and fun activities to Northern Indiana. Take in the area’s best attractions including shopping the Midwest’s Largest Flea Market, catching a musical at the Blue Gate Music Hall, or eating a home-cooked Amish meal (all group-friendly!). You’ll want to spend more than a day exploring this town, […]

Many vacation destinations have added technology services to make the trip more convenient and efficient – at the cost of making the experiences less personable and tying you to your phone. Shipshewana is one of the few places that is the exception to that trend, and our way of simple living makes us the perfect […]

“We are an adventurous family! While only 5 of us travel together these days….we have 8 children, 2 sons-in-law, and 3 grandbabies and of course, Matt and I. We try to go adventuring as often as possible and find new things to be doing and learning. Creating meaningful family time and making memories is what […]

There’s always one downside for going on vacation, leaving that furry little friend to wonder why you’re not home at 5:42 like a usual day. So, why not just bring them along for the ride? You’d be surprised (and excited about) how pet friendly LaGrange County businesses are! Shipshewana Flea Market Visit on a Tuesday […]

Shipshewana was excited to host Tanya Shelburne, from Traveling Tanya, along with her family for a weekend of activities. Their time was filled with cultural experiences, shopping, wine tasting, and even a concert. She has shared her experience in the blog below so you can what visiting Shipshewana is like first hand! With full days […]

Spring break doesn’t always mean you have to jump on a plane and travel to somewhere tropical. There’s plenty to do within driving distance around the Midwest, like a visit to Shipshewana. With activities both parents and kids can enjoy, these top family vacation / staycation ideas are sure to make everyone happy. Enjoy Hotel […]

There’s one thing you’ll find in the kitchen of every Amish home, as a matter of fact, most homes in LaGrange County: Amish noodles. They’re a staple around here since they’re easy to add to any dish. But where do you buy them? What can you make with them? Can you make them yourself? The […]