Trying to get rid of the winter blues? During the cold-weather season, there’s plenty of indoor and outdoor adventures to be had in Shipshewana.
Not only does Indiana’s Amish Country have outdoor parks for winter fun, but there are plenty of indoor entertainment and shopping activities for the entire family as well! Check out six great ideas below.
1. Go Sledding at Bonneyville Mill
Just a few miles west of Shipshewana a gorgeous park that is perfect for snow fun – Bonneyville Mill County Park.
Bonneyville Mill Park has two great sledding hills, a warming building, and miles of cross-country ski trails. (You can also check out some of their Events for added fun winter activities while you’re here!)
For more outdoor fun, visit one of the other seven LaGrange County parks. Walking trails are available and they also have planned activities, so be sure to check out their calendar. You never know what surprising wildlife you might encounter on the great trails at some of these parks.
One of my favorites is Dallas Lake Park and there is a small per car admission fee for this park, but it is worth it with the walking paths, wetland observation deck and swimming areas during the summer months.
2. Attend & Bid at a Live Auction
There are plenty of fun indoor auctions to attend year-round in Shipshewana.
Our favorite is the Shipshewana Antique & Misc. Auction held inside the heated Shipshewana Auction Barn every Wednesday at 9 a.m. – even in the winter! There are even some Specialty Sales you won’t want to miss happening all year long.
You may find a piece of furniture for your next up-cycling project. Or, you may find a quality antique ready for decorating your home without any work at all. Register for a buyer’s number in the office, and you’ll be set to bid on a variety of items as auctioneers sell simultaneously in six to ten different rings – all under the same roof!
3. Experience the Shipshewana Ice Festival & Chili Cookoff
Watch as professional carvers make beautiful ice masterpieces that are displayed for the winter season all over Shipshewana.
This fun annual event features:
- Ice Sculptures
- Special Deals with the purchase of a limited Ice Festival Pin
- Chili Cook-Off
4. Enjoy a Spectacular 2 Mile Drive-Thru Light Display
Photo Courtesy of Keith James Photography
Don’t miss this spectacular Christmas and holiday lights drive-thru experience of more than 2,000,000 LED lights displayed in a two mile symphony of beautiful scenes in November and December each year.
Make traditions with family and tune in your radio as you listen to Christmas music and enjoy over half an hour of sparkling lights in the beautiful little town of Shipshewana, IN at Shipshewana Lights of Joy.
5. Go on a Shopping Spree
Lots of store owners in Shipshewana have shops that are open all winter! Favorites include the Davis Mercantile (many stores all under one roof, pictured above), Harrison Street and Morton Street shops, Yoder’s Shopping Center, Red Barn Shoppes, and many more.
Plus, don’t forget to stop for lunch or dinner at one of the delicious places to eat in town.
Winter hours for individual businesses may vary, so be sure to call ahead before making plans!
6. See a Show or Concert
Most people are surprised to learn that the quiet town of Shipshewana brings in world-class entertainers, musicians and shows all year long.
Before planning your trip, be sure to check out the show schedules at the Blue Gate Theatre and the Michiana Event Center (MEC) for a list of big names and fun events!
Looking for more Shipshewana trip ideas? Check out our free e-book… the Ultimate Guide to Shipshewana!
