Getting Around Shipshewana: Old-time Travel With A Twist

There’s something magical about waking up in Shipshewana and hearing the steady clip-clop of horse hooves echo down the street. It’s more than a sound—it’s a rhythm that has pulsed through this Amish community for generations. While the rest of the world has shifted into high gear with engines and exhaust, Shipshewana holds on to traditions that began in the 19th century, when Amish settlers first arrived in Indiana. Standing on a street corner, I couldn’t help but smile as each buggy rolled past, reminding me that not all progress comes with horsepower measured in digits. Here, the simple cadence of real hooves sets the pace of life.

We want to thank Visit Shipshewana and Buggy Lane Tours for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

Buggies Everywhere

It’s impossible to miss the buggies in Shipshewana—they’re a constant part of the landscape. We even found one parked right inside the local shopping mall, and of course, we had to take a closer look. The wooden craftsmanship caught our attention, but what surprised us most was the comfort. Soft seats, clever design, and thoughtful details made it clear these aren’t just relics from the past. These practical, well-built vehicles are still serving families today. Generations of Amish artisans have perfected these designs, creating buggies that blend durability with tradition. Suddenly, the idea of traveling by buggy didn’t feel quaint at all—it felt downright inviting.

A Ride with Buggy Lane Tours

Curiosity turned into action when we booked a ride with Buggy Lane Tours. Meeting the horse that would be pulling us was a highlight in itself. With a gentle nudge and a flick of the ears, our steed seemed to size us up. The moment we climbed aboard, the experience shifted from curiosity to connection. Rolling through town behind that horse gave us a new perspective on Shipshewana. Everything slowed down, and instead of rushing from stop to stop, we were able to savor each passing scene like it was framed in a moving picture.

Friendly Hooves and Familiar Faces

What stood out most on our buggy ride wasn’t just the scenery—it was the people. Our guide welcomed us with a warm smile and stories that gave insight into everyday Amish life. As we rolled along, we noticed parked buggies lining the way, each with a horse in the lead. What made us laugh was how many of those horses seemed to perk up at the sight of our steed, as though greeting an old friend. That sense of community, where even the animals seem to know each other, made Shipshewana feel less like a destination and more like a neighborhood.