Visiting Shipshewana felt like taking a gentle step back into another era, where the pace of life slows and the charm of tradition shines. Strolling through the town, we found ourselves immersed in a blend of novelty and nostalgia that made the trip uniquely memorable. Every corner seemed to offer a glimpse of simpler times, yet wrapped in experiences that felt fresh and exciting. That balance of old and new created a sense of discovery around every turn. It quickly became clear why people rave about the many things to do in Shipshewana. Here, family-friendly fun is paired with genuine hospitality that makes visitors feel at home. Before long, we realized this was more than a destination—it was an experience that stirred curiosity and invited us to savor each moment.
We want to thank Visit Shipshewana for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.
Blue Gate Music Hall
Our evening at the Blue Gate Music Hall was one for the books. Tucked in the heart of Shipshewana, this intimate venue provided the perfect setting for a night filled with laughter, nostalgia, and music that touched the soul. The headliner for our visit was the Sensational ’60s Review, a production that had the audience singing along before the first number even ended. The hall itself seemed designed to draw people closer—not just to the performers, but to one another. By the second song, strangers were swaying side by side, and the energy in the room was contagious. If you’re looking for activities in Shipshewana that bring generations together, this is the place. It’s the kind of evening that feels timeless, reminding you that music has a way of making friends out of fellow travelers.
The Show
The Sensational ’60s Review was more than a concert—it was a journey back to an era defined by unforgettable melodies. The performers dazzled the crowd with classics such as “Sweet Caroline,” “I Got You Babe,” “Respect,” and “Pretty Woman.” Each song brought smiles, tapping feet, and bursts of applause. Costume changes added a splash of excitement, keeping the show lively from start to finish. Every outfit seemed to capture the spirit of the era, from fringe dresses to sharp suits that looked straight out of a jukebox musical. What stood out most was the way the performers connected with the audience. They weren’t just singing—they were sharing a story, and we were all part of it. For families looking to bond over a shared love of music, this is one of the most memorable things to do in Shipshewana.
Shipshewana Flea Market
No trip to Shipshewana would be complete without a visit to the famous Shipshewana Flea Market—the largest in the Midwest. Row after row of vendor booths stretched out before us, a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and enticing aromas. From antiques to handcrafted goods, it felt like a living treasure hunt where every turn revealed something unexpected. There was no rush, no need to hurry. The joy was in meandering, letting curiosity guide us from one stall to the next. Families with kids darted between booths, while couples strolled arm in arm, pausing to admire something unique. With more than 700 vendor spaces, this market could easily fill an entire day’s adventure. It’s the perfect example of how things to do in Shipshewana can appeal to every member of the family, no matter their age or interests.
Food at the Market
If the shopping wasn’t enough to capture our attention, the food certainly sealed the deal. The Shipshewana Flea Market offers a spread that could tempt even the most disciplined eater. We passed stands overflowing with fresh produce, glistening jars of homemade jams and jellies, and baskets filled with candies wrapped in bright foil. Every step carried the fragrance of something new—cinnamon wafting from baked goods, tangy notes of pickles, and the comforting sweetness of fudge. Local vendors proudly offered tastes of their family recipes, eager to share their culinary traditions with curious visitors. It wasn’t just about eating; it was about connecting with the people who pour heart and soul into every jar, loaf, and slice. The market reminded me that food has always been one of the most straightforward and most enjoyable ways to experience a place.
Tastes We Tried
Eventually, our curiosity (and appetites) got the better of us. We gave in to the aroma of freshly baked Ben’s Pretzels—warm, chewy, and perfectly salted. A few steps later, we sampled locally made pierogies, each bite a pocket of rich, comforting flavor that tasted like someone’s grandmother had just served it from her kitchen. To wash it down, we couldn’t resist a cup of fresh-squeezed lemonade, tart and sweet in equal measure. Together, the trio of treats was a snapshot of Shipshewana’s food culture: homemade, hearty, and unforgettable. Sharing bites reminded me of why these moments matter—because the best memories are often tied to simple joys. It was one of those experiences that made me grateful for the variety of things to do in Shipshewana, especially when they involved both flavor and fun.
Hunting for Treasures
With our hunger satisfied, we turned our attention back to the market’s endless rows of vendors. Each booth seemed to hold a story, from handcrafted quilts to vintage records. I found myself pausing to admire the handmade birdhouses, while Crystal sifted through racks of boutique apparel. Bargains mixed with rare finds, and every purchase came with a tale from the vendor. There was a thrill in knowing that tucked among the 700+ stalls might be something you never knew you wanted until you spotted it. This treasure hunt atmosphere brought out the kid in me, eager to discover what was just around the corner. In a world where so much feels mass-produced, it was refreshing to find unique, meaningful keepsakes that carried the spirit of the town itself.
A Guidebook to More Adventures
Uncovering activities in Shipshewana was made easier with the Visit Shipshewana Visitor Guidebook, a symbol of all the possibilities still waiting to be discovered. It was more than just a pamphlet—it was a fountain of ideas, pointing us toward museums, buggy rides, and more hidden gems scattered throughout town. Looking through it, we realized our adventure had only scratched the surface of what was available. The guidebook served as both a souvenir and an invitation to return. That’s the beauty of Shipshewana: no matter how much you explore, there are always new experiences to uncover. In the end, it’s about the memories those moments create and the stories we carry home.
We’ve driven past Shipshewana a few times but never stopped. After reading this, I think it’s time we finally pull over and explore.
You definitely should! It’s one of those towns that surprises you once you take the time to stop. A mix of culture, food, and entertainment is waiting for you.
We brought our kids to Shipshewana and they loved the buggy rides. It really made them feel like they stepped back in time.
What a great memory! Those buggy rides really do capture the spirit of the area—it’s like history comes alive right before your eyes.
I had no idea there was so much live entertainment in Shipshewana. Adding this to our weekend getaway list!
That’s wonderful to hear! Between the Blue Gate Theatre and all the seasonal events, you’ll definitely have no shortage of things to keep you smiling.
We visited Shipshewana last summer and fell in love with the flea market! I swear we spent half the day just wandering the aisles.
It’s easy to do that, isn’t it? The Shipshewana Flea Market feels like it just keeps going and going—always something new around the corner. Glad you enjoyed it as much as we do!