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Shipshewana is known for its Amish community, and I enjoy visiting. If you like handmade treasures, shopping, and dining, then you’re in luck.
This area in Indiana is also a historic place where you can learn more about cultural traditions. Find delicious food and people traveling in horse and buggy.
So come along as I share what to know when going, what to see and do, and tips.
Getting to Shipshewana
Coming from Michigan, I traveled on I-80/I-90 East. This is a toll road, but also a faster route.
Taking IN-13 to IN-120 East, we ended up on North Main St. and followed that down past many stores. The whole trip was about 50 miles, or a 1-hour drive.
There’s a big parking lot across from the Blue Gate. Visiting during the week, it wasn’t too crowded.
Visiting Shipshewana
If you want to visit the area in one day, I recommend getting there early. Many of the stores close before 3 or 4 p.m.
Arriving in the afternoon, some stores were closing at 2 p.m. If you plan on doing a few activities, you might want to start in the morning.
The outdoor flea market is only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 8 a.m. To 4 p.m. The open season is from spring to fall, and on some weekends.
Historic Land
Before parking, you might drive around to get the lay of the land. You’ll notice lots of farmland and people in horse-drawn buggies.
In the early days, the Potowatomi Indians were the first inhabitants of this land, before they were pushed out by the government. The Native Americans were led by Chief Shipshewana, which became the name of this town.
The European settlers came in the early 1800s, with the Amish eventually building much of the area you see today. And you can find many people continuing to live the preserved lifestyle.
It’s a different pace, and so opposite of the hustle and bustle I’m so used to. You might see big families and notice people living a simpler life.
There are many family-owned stores and historic buildings in the area. The horses waiting patiently amid cars refueling at the gas station were a beautiful contrast of past and present.
By the way, if you pass them on the road, you’ll want to slow down and give them space.
Shopping
A big thing to do in Shipshewana is to shop. If you’re looking for hand-crafted items, it’s the place to go.
Besides going to the flea market, there are many family-owned businesses with unique items. In one store, a lady recommended seeing all the nice, handmade furniture in the area.
She pointed out places on a directory. Being the crafty person that I am, I wanted to see these places.
Now, the woodworking and leather crafts are really something to see. You can find lots of accessories, clocks, and art pieces.
I spoke to an employee at a furniture store, and he said that their locally-made furniture was shipped all over the world. They even do some custom orders if you want pieces modified.
So, if you want a durable, rustic, show-stopper for your house, you might find it here.
Besides that, many stores sell knick-knacks and decorations for the home. They weren’t all locally made, so you’ll want to check the tags or ask.
Blue Gate Restaurant and Theatre
Another thing that’s popular to do in this area is dining. People recommended eating at the Blue Gate Restaurant.
They also have a theatre where you can watch live shows, but we just came for dinner. You can either get the buffet or order a plate.
When I walked in, I spoke to the hostess, and she said it’s pretty busy all the time. I had mentioned my food allergies, and they said they’d make some menu changes for my needs!
Well, I ordered the turkey dinner, and it was delicious. It felt like Thanksgiving, as our plates were loaded with food.
And by the way, our server was as kind as could be.
Afterwards, you’ll want to stop at the bakery. They had a lot more homemade sweets.
Other Activities
By the “Welcome to Boardwalk” sign, they had more to see. Buy some shaved ice and take a buggy ride.
The man at the stand said they have packages where you can ride based on time. I read about other buggy rides where you can explore all over the area, plus enjoy a show and dinner.
It was too hot this time, but this would be great when the weather is cooler.
Some other things to explore in the area are the dairy farm, animal park, carousel, and museum.
Further down the road, we stumbled upon a campground, so that’s something for people who like staying outdoors.
Travel Notes
The best time to visit would be when it’s not so hot. However, if you’re looking to go to the flea market, be sure to check the dates.
Once you park, there’s plenty to see within walking distance. But there are other stores spread out on Main Street.
I’d wear some good walking shoes and bring a hat if it’s sunny outside.
Also, I saw some signs at stores that said “no pictures.” I’m sure they don’t want people posting their one-of-a-kind arts and crafts on social media. I don’t blame them!
That being said, you’ll want to respect the community when visiting. This is a deeply religious area, and you don’t want to disrupt their lifestyle.
Overall
I enjoyed visiting Shipshewana, and it’s well worth seeing. It’s a great place to go shopping and grab a hearty meal.
Next time, I’d like to catch a buggy ride and maybe check out the dairy farm. If you’d just like to walk around and view the craftsmanship, you’ll see some amazing things!
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