Picture this: Windows down, seat heater on, PSL in hand, and autumn leaves in view. That’s right, we’re hitting the road to Northern Indiana.
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 newly-expanded 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
- Davis Mercantile
🍂 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.
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.
Visitors can also explore the giant straw bale art structures scattered across Shipshewana + Middlebury. Bonus: There are 20 murals across Shipshewana to visit and snap a selfie with.
🥧 For the gourmands
Autumn is harvest season, which means delicious seasonal bites are on the menu. Local farm stands and farmers’ markets brim with fresh produce, homemade jams + pies.
Whether you’re savoring a hearty Amish meal at Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury or indulging in gourmet treats and coffee at Main Street Roasters in Nappanee, the flavors of fall are sure to delight your taste buds.
Have a big appetite? Head to Blue Gate in Shipshewana for a cozy — and delicious — home-style Amish meal. Pro tip: After a long day of shopping at the Shipshewana Flea Market, put your feet up and relax on their wrap-around porch.
🎃 For the festival goers
Mark your calendars for:
- Buggies and Bluegrass Week | Tuesday, Sept. 3-Saturday, Sept. 7 | This year’s lineup features The Del McCoury Band, Sam Bush, and more.
- Middlebury Fall Festival | Saturday, Sept. 7 | Celebrate the arrival of fall in the heart of Middlebury.
- Goshen Hispanic Heritage Festival | Saturday, Sept. 14 | Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the union of cultures, music, folk dances, Latin American food, as well as live music.
- Nappanee Apple Festival | Thursday, Sept. 19-Sunday, Sept. 22 | A local favorite that’s home to Indiana’s largest 7-foot baked apple pie.
- Shipshewana Fall Crafters Fair | Thursday, Oct. 3-Saturday, Oct. 5 | Shop handmade and Amish-made items, including hand-woven baskets, 100% beeswax candles, and more.
- Middlebury Pumpkin Race | Saturday, Oct. 4 | Grab your crew of family + friends, design your pumpkin, and have some serious fun.
- Ship-Chic Fall Craft + Vintage Show | Saturday, Oct. 26 | 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 like Heritage Ridge Creamery + The Barn Door. 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.
