Winter in Shipshewana and LaGrange County brings a magical charm, turning the area into a haven for cozy and exciting activities. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, indoor entertainment, or a little bit of both, here are some of the best things to do in winter in Indiana that’ll make you smile through the winter blahs.
Marvel at Shipshewana’s Ice Fest
Plan your weekend trip to Shipshewana’s annual Ice Fest, a winter highlight you won’t want to miss. Talented artists transform blocks of ice into stunning sculptures right before your eyes. Stroll through the town to see these incredible frozen creations, and don’t forget to vote for your favorite! The festive atmosphere and friendly competition make it a perfect winter outing. Grab your Ice Festival Pin at the Shipshewana Visitors Center for $20 to enjoy event admission and score great deals at participating shops all January.
Shipshe Pro-tip: Make sure to purchase a ticket to the chili cook-off to share in the voting fun for People’s Choice.
Explore Shipshewana’s Auction
Hey bidder-bidder! Known as the Midwest’s largest flea market in the warmer months, the Shipshewana Auction doesn’t slow down in the winter. Visit the year-round auction house on Wednesdays to find unique antiques, collectibles, and handmade goods. It’s a treasure hunter’s paradise!
Shipshe Pro Tip: With six to nine live auction rings running simultaneously at the Shipshewana Antique Auction, you’ll want to stay on your toes! Move from ring to ring to snag the best deals on a wide variety of unique merchandise.
Enjoy Indoor Fun
If you’d rather stay toasty indoors, Shipshewana and LaGrange County have plenty of indoor attractions to keep you entertained and all within easy driving distance from one another. JoJo’s Pretzels is a local favorite for a quick snack, while Menno-Hof offers fascinating exhibits on Amish and Mennonite history. For live entertainment, head to the Blue Gate Theater for a variety of shows that are sure to help you sing or laugh your winter blues away.
If you are looking for something out of the box, make time for a whimsical stop at the No Place Like Oz Museum, featuring over 6,000 Wizard of Oz collectibles and themed gifts.
Wintertime Shopping in Shipshewana
Shipshewana offers a shopping experience like no other, even in the heart of winter! Start at Yoder’s Shopping Center, where three stores in one offer everything from clothing and hardware to gifts and over 20,000 bolts of fabric. Browse Yoder Department Store, Yoder’s Shipshewana Hardware, and Hoosier Banquets for a one-stop shop adventure. (Travel writer Brandy Gleason stops here every visit to grab some shoes from their large selection!) Head to Davis Mercantile, a four-story wonder packed with unique finds, from games and clothing to the historic 1906 carousel, JoJo’s Pretzels, and the cozy Kitchen Cupboard Coffee House.
Looking for home décor with charm? The Barn Door features antiques, repurposed furniture, and rustic gifts. Wander through the Morton and Harrison Street Shops for downtown shopping at its finest, with dozens of stores within walking distance of The Blue Gate and Davis Mercantile. For grocery needs, E & S Sales has everything from bulk food items to specialty groceries. Don’t forget to visit Yoder’s Meat & Cheese and fill your cooler with over 150 cuts of meat, 80 varieties of cheese, and a delicious selection of jams and jellies. Shipshewana has it all this winter!
Take a short drive to LaGrange, where you can browse all things lavender. Breathe in the sweet smells of summer as the wind blows cold outside at Bloomfield Lavender Apothecary. Before you drive out of LaGrange, make a stop at Polish Girl Collectibles where every find is a treasure of the past.
Shipshe Pro Tip: Grab a 2026 Shipshewana/LaGrange County Visitors Guide for a full list of shopping!
Dive into Fun at an Indoor Pool in Shipshewana
Ready to enjoy a warm pool and the feeling of relaxation? Are the kids driving you a bit stir-crazy? Book a night at a hotel in Shipshewana with an indoor pool. You can relax poolside or unwind in a hot tub while the kids splash around and have fun, helping to chase away those winter blues. Families love the Blue Gate Garden Inn for its family-friendly amenities and an ice cream parlor. The Farmstead Inn provides a spacious environment for enjoying all the water fun, while the Van Buren Hotel offers a cozy atmosphere. Each hotel provides a unique experience for your family getaway.
Shipshe Pro tip: Looking to stay out by 80/90? Splash at the Best Western Plus or Holiday Inn Express.
Savor Delicious Comfort Food
Warm up with hearty comfort food at local restaurants. Shipshewana’s dining scene includes Amish-style buffets, home-cooked meals, and delightful bakeries. Be sure to try the famous pies and cinnamon rolls, they’re worth every bite! Don’t let us tell you where to find your flavors; check out our list of the best places to eat and find the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Local Favorite:
- Blue Gate Restaurant – 195 N Van Buren St
- Corn Crib Cafe – 920 N SR 5
- East of Chicago Pizza – 350 S Van Buren St
- Hoosier Banquets & Cafe – 300 S Van Buren St
- JoJo’s Pretzels – 225 N Harrison St
Shipshe Pro Tip: Looking to dine in an Amish home? Click here to learn how! Remember to make a reservation upon arrival!
Winter Events in Shipshewana
Winter in Shipshewana is packed with reasons to bundle up and come play. Sweeten things up February 2–28 with the Heartland Handmade Chocolate Trail, pick up your $35 box and collect 16 chocolate treats from 16 Amish Country businesses in Shipshewana and Middlebury. Then slip into something comfy for Pajama Day Sales on February 7, when early-bird shoppers at 6 a.m. can score up to 60% off for one day only. March keeps the momentum going with March Mania, featuring something new every weekend, from Shipshewana Card Fest to the Midwest Camping & RV Show and even the circus, making late winter and early spring a perfect time to plan a getaway.
Winter in Shipshewana and LaGrange County invites you to slow down and savor the season. Crisp air and warm, welcoming shops set the tone for days filled with winter fun and easygoing exploration. From seasonal events and one-of-a-kind shopping to comforting meals and quiet moments that feel exceptionally peaceful this time of year, there’s a rhythm here that makes winter feel warm and memorable. Experience the charm, linger a little longer, and discover why winter is such a special time to visit Amish Country in Indiana. Live out your Winter Dreams in #VistiShipshewana! – Use #VisitShipshewana to share your winter fun!
Find a complete listing of events in Shipshewana and LaGrange here.
