Shipshewana Travel Tips
Shipshe Travel Tip #1
Always start out by stopping by the Visitors Center, located at 350 S Van Buren St. in Shipshewana! You’ll find knowledgeable staff, coupon books, and answers to all of your questions! You’ll also be able to pick up a copy of the brand-new 2024 Visitors Guide!
Shipshe Travel Tip #2
Planning to browse the Amish cottage shops? Make sure you pick up the Off the Beaten Path brochure that contains a handy map! Some Amish business owners are cash only, and there aren’t a lot of ATMs on the back roads, so plan ahead, and bring cash!
Shipshe Travel Tip #3
Check calendars and event listings to see what activities and shows are available. There’s so much to do here, that you may miss something if you don’t plan ahead!
Shipshe Travel Tip #4
Shipshewana has many outdoor and animal experiences available, but they may be seasonal, or closed due to weather conditions. Call the Visitor’s Center to make sure: (800)254-8092
Shipshe Travel Tip #5
Be patient and take it slow. Figuratively & literally! The pace here is slower than what you may be used to. Relax and enjoy…
And if you’re driving, slow down on the roads and keep a sharp eye out, because we have a lot of tractors, buggies, bikes, and young people traveling in town and out in the countryside.
Shipshe Travel Tip #6
The famous Shipshewana Flea Market is the largest in the Midwest, and a visitor favorite, but it is seasonal! Open from May through September, they also have extended weekend hours four times a year. Check the calendar!
Shipshe Travel Tip #7
Many visitors find that they want to take home A LOT of local food! Make sure to save space in your vehicle, and think about bringing a cooler with you for any perishables.
Shipshe Travel Tip #8
Contrary to what most people think, many Amish are fine with having their pictures taken, as long as it doesn’t show their face. Always ask permission first!
Shipshe Travel Tip #9
If you’re traveling to our area to learn more about the Amish and Mennonite Communities, start your visit at the Menno-Hof, a cultural museum dedicated to relating the beginnings, history and culture of the Amish and Mennonite communities.
Shipshe Travel Tip #10
If you’ve visited another Amish community in the United States, don’t make the mistake of assuming that they are all alike! Amish communities vary from area to area, based on their own district churches, and local customs. Shipshewana alone has 21 different Amish districts!
Shipshe Travel Tip #11
Make sure to note the OPEN days and hours of Shipshewana businesses that you’d like to visit, because they’re likely to be closed after 5pm, and the Amish-run businesses are always closed on Sundays.
