Four Fun Activities in Shipshewana, Indiana

If you're fascinated by Amish lifestyle, then you must visit Shipshewana, Indiana. Shipshewana is the heart of Indiana's Amish country and offers a captivating array of cultural activities. Here are four excellent endeavors that highlight Amish culture or just provide some good old fashioned fun for the whole family.

Mennohof

Mennohof is a non for profit learning center that invites its guests to embrace Amish and Mennonite history, customs, faith and lifestyle with multimedia displays and interactive presentations. The Dungeon Room, for example, provides visitors with a snapshot of how the Amish, at one time, were tortured and persecuted for their belief system. And the Tornado Theatre simulates harsh Midwestern wind storms that frequently occur in the rural Amish countryside. Mennohof also offers an on-site book store, a traditional Amish meeting house, a print shop and a sailboat. For more information, log onto www.mennohof.org.

Shipshewana Flea Market

Who would think a small town like Shipshewana, Indiana would be home to such an immense flea market? But it's true, every Tuesday and Wednesday from May through October, Shipshewana is host to one of the Midwest's largest flea market, featuring everything from fruit, flowers, crafts and clothing to pet supplies, perfumes, stamps and clocks. Literally hundreds of vendors line the fields to sell antique treasures, custom built furnishings, hand crafted toys and much, much more. There's even an on-site livestock auction as well as an authentic Amish restaurant advertising hearty home cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Davis Mercantile Shops

If you don't find what you're looking for at the flea market, consider a visit to the Davis Mercantile shops. This multi-level building boasts over 20 stores presenting Amish breads, candies, nuts, scrapbooking supplies, quilts, candles, coffee, teas and more. Take a break from browsing to nibble a handmade pretzel from JoJo's. These delicious twisted treats are available in garlic, cheese or cinnamon flavors and are made from a secret Amish recipe. And don't leave the Mercantile without taking a spin on the 1906 restored
carousel.

Splash Universe

Okay, this one has absolutely nothing to do with Amish culture, but its fun! Right smack dab in the middle of Indiana Amish country lies the Splash Universe hotel and waterpark. Splash Universe features 154 rooms or suites and an 84 degree indoor waterpark complete with meandering slides, a lazy river, an aquatic jungle gym and fort and much more. The hotel also advertises a spa, game room and cozy country décor. For more information, rates and reservations, visit www.splashuniverse.com.