The season of renewal brings a whole new sense of wanderlust. Rising temperatures and revived greenery invite all to leave their winter lairs and venture into the sunshine. Shipshewana and LaGrange County, Indiana are no exception, providing plenty of opportunities to venture outside after a long, frigid winter. So, if you’re eager to shake off the chill of the last few months, check out some of the fun-filled activities around Shipshewana and see how memorable adventures blossom in our corner of the Midwest.
1. See What’s Happening
Shipshewana has numerous events, providing a space for residents and visitors to gather and celebrate the community and its culture. The town’s premier spring festival, Mayfest, is an annual, two-day celebration that kicks off the season with band and choir concerts, live entertainment, food trucks, kids’ activities, the Grand Mayfest Parade, and more.
Want to bring home some reclaimed treasures for your home? The Ship-Chic Craft & Vintage Spring Show , held in March at the Shipshewana Trading Place. The show features sellers from all over the Midwest offering a variety of products including home décor, crafts, clothing, jewelry, and baked goods. In April, the Ranch Rodeo at the Michiana Event Center promises plenty of rip-roaring action with heart-pounding lassoing and galloping — plus a variety of kids’ activities!
2. Master the Market
Described as one of the top 10 things to do in Indiana, the Shipshewana Trading Place Flea Market is the largest flea market in the Midwest. Peruse over 700 vendors selling home décor, furniture, landscaping, fresh produce, and more!
3. An Easter Extravaganza
Looking to help the Easter Bunny out with a few gifts? Shipshewana is the place to be with plenty of locally owned stores and shops carrying an incredible selection of products, including antiques, snacks and baked goods, quilting supplies, and, of course, handmade Amish furniture!
4. Celebrating Special Occasions
Spring is a time to celebrate in Shipshewana. Graduations, family reunions, weddings… No matter what you’re in town for, discover comfortable places to stay ranging from charming bed-and-breakfasts to cozy cabins and vacation rentals.
5. Down on the Farm
Get in touch with our agricultural roots at the agritourism destinations around Shipshewana that offer guests an opportunity to get up close with some amazing animals. Cook’s Bison Ranch features an 83-acre space for American bison to roam. Guests can feed these powerful animals from the comfort of a covered wagon tour. The expansive Dutch Creek Animal Park features a menagerie of rare and exotic animals like water buffalo, kangaroos, zebras, and one of the only Poitou donkeys in America.
6. Cast a Line
Wet your line in search of your next fishing trophy! Spring is prime season for trout on the Pigeon River, so don’t miss your opportunity to reel in your limit of rainbow, brook, and brown trout. In addition, the Fawn River is stocked with rainbow trout every spring, making it an ideal time for some fly fishing.
7. Hit the Trail
Connecting Shipshewana to the nearby communities of Middlebury and Goshen, the 17-mile Pumpkinvine Nature Trail provides a fantastic chance for cyclists to explore the natural beauty of Northwestern Indiana. The asphalt surface means a smooth ride, while plenty of shady stops along the way offer space to take a breather.
8. Paddle the Pigeon
Portage to the Pigeon River and paddle through the swift, babbling currents. No gear? No problem! Local outfitters offer a variety of vessels — including canoe and kayak rentals — to make your float trip effortless.
9. Go Off the Beaten Path
See a side of Shipshewana few often encounter some of the region’s legends and folklore passed down through generations on the Off the Beaten Path Trail! This print and digital map and an audio tour guide visitors through some of Shipshewana’s hidden gems, including over 100 Amish cottage shops, 80-plus barn quilts, and numerous working farms and tours.
10. Fill Up
Chances are you’ll need to refuel during your getaway. Thankfully, Shipshewana has some delicious diners, restaurants, and eateries with menus that suit even the pickiest eaters in your group. Sample a variety of pizzas from the buffet at East of Chicago, pack for a picnic with sandwiches from Millie’s Market Café, and enjoy the savory flavors of Amish home cooking at the famous Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery.
There’s more to see and do in Shipshewana — plan your springtime getaway today! Order your Official Visit Shipshewana & LaGrange County Visitors Guide today or contact the Shipshewana/LaGrange County Visitors Bureau today at 260.768.4008 to see how we can help plan an unforgettable trip.
