Indiana’s Amish Country is home to one of the largest Amish communities in the United States, drawing visitors from around the world who are eager to experience its peaceful landscapes, handmade goods, and rich traditions. Whether you’re stopping by for a weekend or planning a longer stay, knowing a few key things before you go can help you better understand the culture and make the most of your time. Here’s a quick guide to Shipshewana, Indiana.
What to Know About the Amish Before Visiting Indiana’s Amish Country
When visiting Indiana’s Amish Country, it is essential to understand and respect the culture that makes the area so unique. First, photography of Amish individuals is a no-no due to religious beliefs, so instead of snapping portraits, focus on capturing the beautiful countryside, roadside stands, and handcrafted details. Second, life moves at a gentler pace here, so don’t be surprised if service is slower or shops close early. It’s all part of the charm. Third, be sure to carry cash, as many Amish-run businesses don’t accept cards and often operate on an honor system. Fourth, keep in mind that Sunday is a sacred day of rest, meaning most businesses will be closed. And most importantly, as you drive through the area, expect to share the road with horse-drawn buggies. Slow down, pass carefully, and take it all in.
Pro-tip: Got more questions? Here are the top 10 Things to know
Things to Do in Shipshewana on a Sunday
Looking for a relaxing Sunday in Shipshewana and Indiana’s Amish Country? Start your day with a swim or a visit to a nearby lake. Enjoy a peaceful hike, bike ride, or paddle on the river. Grab brunch at a cozy local spot, cool off with a sweet treat, or sip wine in the afternoon. Visit a museum, stroll through a garden, or join a seasonal event. Take a scenic drive to see barn quilts, public art, or blooming landscapes. Sundays here are perfect for slowing down and enjoying the simple things.
🛶 Go kayaking and paddle with Trading Post Outfitters or T&L Canoes
🚴♂️ Bring your bike and ride the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail for a day of exploration
🍳 Have Sunday Brunch at Twin Six Restaurant in Wolcottville, or El Zorrito 2
🍷 Imbibe at a wine tasting at Fruit Hills Winery & Orchard, Bristol
🏛️ Learn some history at Ruthmere Museum in Elkhart or No Place Like Oz Museum & Gift Shop in LaGrange
Pro-tip: Find all the things to do on a Sunday here.
Where to Dine in an Amish Home in Shipshewana, Indiana
Dining at Yoder’s Homestyle Cooking in Shipshewana, Indiana, is more than just a meal, it’s an experience rooted in tradition and hospitality. Set on a peaceful Amish farm, guests are welcomed into a simple, yet inviting dining room that overlooks a serene lake. Here, you’ll enjoy hearty, family-style meals like a classic thresher’s dinner, a savory haystack, or a lighter breakfast or lunch, all made with fresh ingredients and family recipes. The calm, rural setting and fresh country air invite you to slow down and savor the moment. Reservations are required, and if you’re looking to learn more, cooking classes are also available offering a chance to bring a bit of Amish culinary heritage home with you.
Things to do After 5 pm in Shipshewana, Indiana
Looking for things to do after 5 p.m. in Amish Country? While many shops and attractions close earlier in the day, there’s still plenty to enjoy once evening rolls around. Grab dinner at a local favorite; many restaurants stay open until 7, 8, or even 9 p.m. with everything from homestyle cooking to pizza, burgers, and pub fare. Shipshewana is still full of things to do after 5, whether you’re in the mood for a quiet evening or live entertainment; there are still ways to enjoy the charm of Amish Country after the shops have closed.
🍽️ Choose one of the many local restaurants listed here
🚴♀️ Bike or walk the Pumpkinvine Trail; there is a trailhead right in Shipshewana
🌅 Hop in the car for a leisurely drive on the backroads to see the Barn Quilt Trail or the Quilt Garden Trail as the sun sets
⛳🌳 Enjoy a local park or disc golf at Delt Church Park.
🎭 Grab some tickets to the Blue Gate Theater for a night of music, laughs, or a special show
Pro-tip: Read our complete list of things to do here to enjoy everything an evening in Indiana’s Amish Country has to offer.
Things to Do with Kids while Visiting Indiana’s Amish Country
Shipshewana, Indiana, is a fun and affordable family getaway, perfect for making memories with your kids. From hands-on activities to outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do together. Ride the hand-carved 1906 carousel inside Davis Mercantile, paddle down peaceful waterways in a kayak, or take a classic buggy or carriage ride through town. Kids will love getting up close to animals at Cook’s Bison Ranch or Dutch Creek Animal Park where you can even feed the animals and hold baby piglets! Spend time outdoors hiking scenic trails, swimming at one of the local lake beaches, or playing a round of mini golf at Shipshe Pizza and Mini Golf after grabbing a slice of pizza. Rent bikes and explore the Pumpkinvine Trail, which stretches from Shipshewana to Goshen. And for some indoor fun, stop into kid-friendly shops like Kids Kreations or Aunt Millie’s candy shop where little ones can indulge their sweet tooth. Shipshewana is packed with fun, low-cost activities that the whole family will enjoy.
Pro-tip: You can find all the fun in our blog, Things to Do with Kids in Shipshewana
Lodging Made Easy in Shipshewana
Did you know you can book your stay in Indiana’s Amish Country all in one place? At VisitShipshewana.org, the booking widget at the top of the homepage lets you check real-time availability and compare lodging options with just a few clicks. Whether you’re looking for a cozy inn, a family-friendly hotel, or a charming bed and breakfast, it’s all right there, easy to use, with real-time availability, and quick to book. No need to hop from site to site, just one-stop booking for the perfect stay in Shipshewana!
Where to Find Information about Things to Do in Shipshewana
As you research your adventure through Shipshewana and LaGrange County, make your first stop the Visitors Center at 350 S. Van Buren Street. You’ll find friendly staff ready to answer questions, give local tips, and help you plan your perfect itinerary. Don’t forget to grab the latest Visitors Guide, a free coupon book, and the Off the Beaten Path Audio Driving Tour, great tools to make the most of your visit, the Visitors Center is the best place to start. It’s open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., it’s your gateway to all the hidden gems and unforgettable experiences in the Heart of Indiana’s Amish Country.
