Shipshewana is right in the heart of Indiana’s Amish Country. As you drive in, the scenic landscapes set the stage for a relaxing and rewarding getaway. With simple living, Hoosier hospitality, and amazing shopping, this corner of northern Indiana is a destination you’ll want to come back to again and again.
What to expect when visiting Shipshewana
Amish people live simple lives. They don’t like to complicate things and strive for naturalness. The locals call it “Shipshe” and the term could have a varied meaning, but the expression, most of all, symbolizes the simplicity that Amish life stands for. Extravagant attractions aren’t the Amish way. From a visitor’s perspective, it’s more a laid-back place for simple activities like strolling in the corn fields, and people-watching and enjoying peaceful meals.
Shipshewana/ Visitelkhartcounty | Shipshewana was named after a local Potawatomi Indian
Tradition keeps most businesses closed on Sundays and one can’t expect establishments to be open till late. Consequently, Sundays and evenings are best spent enjoying the peacefulness and all the scenic views in the area. But that’s part of the experience when you visit Shipshewana. In Shipshewana, you can turn off for a while and just spend some quality time without any distractions. Entering Shipshewana in Indiana is in many ways like stepping back in time. Just a couple of miles takes you hundreds of years away.
Visit the Amish In-Home Dining
The best way to get the full Amish Country experience is to enjoy dinner in an Amish home. Not only is the food amazing, but so is the hospitality! It’s a great opportunity to get your questions answered about Shipshewana’s heritage.
Trip Advisor/ Getty Images | For many, the Amish are a mystery, a tourist attraction even
Book a meal at Hoosier Banquets, an Amish dining experience that can serve groups of up to 100 people. You can also reserve a meal tour with Miller’s Buggy Line. You’ll ride in a buggy through scenic Amish Country in and around Shipshewana, culminating in an authentic meal with all the fixings. It’s a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience!
Visit the Flea Market
Trip Advisor/ Getty Images | Shipshewana Auction and Flea Market offers unique shopping and selling opportunities
The Flea Market in Shipshewana is the region’s largest and a highlight when visiting Shipshewana. At the outdoor Flea Market in Shipshewana, you find a wide range of products to buy. Get yourself a deal on anything from crafts and home decor to plants and beauty supplies. The Flea Market in Shipshewana is certainly a great place for making unique finds. Make sure that you check the Flea Market dates and hours before you go.
The History of the Amish
Many of the Amish began to arrive in Pennsylvania at the beginning of the 18th century for the same reason as many other immigrants. When William Penn founded the colony, he promised that there would be religious tolerance. However, their history dates back to 1693 when a group of Swiss Mennonites, under the leadership of Jakob Ammann, broke away to form their own religion. The primary reason for the break was a disagreement over the practice of shunning or excommunicating members of the church. The Amish believed in stronger enforcement of these rules, as well as more strict regulations about the clothing that was permitted. Today, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania still has the highest Amish population in the United States, although Amish settlements can be found in 30 states.
