Picture this: Seat heater on, PSL in hand, and autumn leaves in view. That’s right, we’re hitting the road to Northern Indiana this fall.
Consider changing things up this fall by planning a road trip to Shipshewana and Elkhart County, where celebrations, harvest vibes, and coziness await.
🍎 For those looking to explore the charming countryside
One of the highlights of heading north is experiencing the picturesque countryside firsthand. Use the Heritage Trail audio driving tour to visit historic towns like Goshen, Middlebury + Nappanee, or the Off the Beaten Path Trail audio driving tour to visit 120 Amish cottage shops and 80+ barn quilts throughout Shipshewana.
For handmade crafts, freshly-baked goods, and traditional quilts that reflect centuries-old craftsmanship, stop by local Amish-owned businesses, like:
- Dutch Country Market
- Teaberry Wood Products
- The Quilt Shop at Das Dutchman Essenhaus
- Silver Star Leather
- Menno-Hof
- Owl Toy Craft
- E&S Sales
🍂 For the nature enthusiasts
What do hiking, biking, birdwatching, and apple picking have in common? They’re all fall activities you can experience in the county’s parks, nature preserves + the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. The fall foliage provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities, offering photographers and nature lovers endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the season.
Visitors can also explore the giant straw bale art trail scattered across Shipshewana + Middlebury. There are 39 locations featuring “ag art.” Snap a selfie with them from Sept. 1 through Nov. 2.
Pro tip: Don’t miss apple picking at Kercher’s Sunrise Orchard in Goshen. This family-owned U-pick apple orchard and pumpkin patch specializes in Indiana’s finest homegrown and homemade products. It also offers free hayrides, a corn maze, and, of course, lots of fall family fun.
🥧 For the gourmands
Autumn is harvest season, which means delicious seasonal bites are on the menu. Local eateries and farmers’ markets brim with fresh produce, homemade pies + jumbo pretzels.
Whether you’re savoring a hearty Amish meal at Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury or enjoying the famous Amish buffet at the Blue Gate Restaurant in Shipshewana, the flavors of fall are sure to delight your taste buds. Don’t forget to indulge in gourmet treats and coffee at Main Street Roasters in Nappanee or Kitchen Cupboard in Shipshewana.
Pro tip: After a long day of shopping at the Shipshewana Flea Market, put your feet up and relax on their Farmstead Inn wrap-around porch.
🎃 For the festival goers
Mark your calendars for:
- Middlebury Fall Festival | Friday, Sept. 5 | Celebrate the arrival of fall in the heart of Middlebury.
- The Pumpkinvine Classic | Saturday, Sept. 6 | This beloved cycling event is back for its 24th year — start and end at Das Dutchman Essenhaus, in Middlebury, IN, with all routes offering the crisp fall air while traveling the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail and the scenic countryside.
- Celebration Under the Stars featuring Kool & the Gang with special guest The Commodores | Saturday, Sept. 6 | Enjoy a free concert at Central Green in Downtown Elkhart.
- LaGrange County Barn Tour | Friday, Sept. 12-Saturday, Sept. 13 | Experience standout examples of LaGrange County’s rich agricultural history
- Nappanee Apple Festival | Thursday, Sept. 18-Sunday, Sept. 21 | A local favorite that’s home to Indiana’s largest 7-foot baked apple pie.
- Corn School | Monday, Sept. 30-Saturday, Oct. 4 | This week-long celebration features carnival rides, games, talent shows, food vendors, parades, and the traditional vegetable awards.
- Fall Crafters Fair | Thursday, Oct. 2-Saturday, Oct. 4 | This fair is a tribute to the crafting and old-fashioned culture in the surrounding Shipshewana countryside.
- Ship-Chic Fall Craft & Vintage Show | Saturday, Oct. 25 | Come shop authentic products and meet the folks who are selling them.
Explore Shipshewana’s full calendar of events and Elkhart’s fall event lineup to help plan your visit. Don’t miss the chance to join in the festivities and connect with the friendly locals.
🚗 Before you hit the road
Download the Autumn Adventure Shopping Pass to score discounts at local stores and restaurants like Jo Jo’s Pretzels and Cariloha.
Enhance your visit to Elkhart County with the Deals & Discounts Pass.
Pack your camera, bring your appetite, and prepare for an unforgettable journey up north this fall.
