Take a Deep Breath and Disconnect: A Family Trip Through Northern Indiana’s Amish Country

Sometimes the best family adventures are the ones where you can truly slow down, breathe a little deeper, and step into a whole new way of life. Just a short road trip from Central Iowa, Northern Indiana’s LaGrange and Elkhart Counties are home to the third-largest Amish community in the United States.

Here, families can explore a culture that values simplicity, hard work, and connection. all while discovering fun hands-on experiences, delicious food, and plenty of kid-friendly adventures. Whether you’re pedaling along scenic trails, rolling your own pretzel, or taking in a live show, Amish Country is the perfect destination for families who want to learn, play, and grow together.

Here are our Top 5 Family-Friendly Ways to Learn About Amish Culture in Northern Indiana (plus a few bonus stops you won’t want to miss!).

1. Hands-On Learning Experiences

Nothing sparks curiosity in kids more than doing something with their own hands, and Amish Country has no shortage of opportunities.

  • Pretzel Rolling at Ben’s Pretzels: Who doesn’t love pretzels? Families can take a pretzel-rolling class, learn the craft, and then enjoy the delicious results for lunch. Located in Shipshewana, Indiana.
  • Amish Doll Making at Kid’s Kreations: A truly unique experience where kids can create their very own Amish doll while learning about traditions behind this handmade toy. Located in Shipshewana, Indiana.
  • Cook’s Bison Ranch: Step outside the ordinary with a wagon ride and the chance to hand-feed bison. Kids will love the up-close animal encounter. This experience is only available by reservation. Contact them ahead of time! Located in LaGrange County, Indiana.

These hands-on activities make Amish Country feel like a living classroom … but way more fun.

2. Food That Brings People Together

Amish Country is known for its hearty, homestyle meals which is perfect for families with hungry bellies after a day of exploring.

  • Das Dutchman Essenhaus: A classic stop for delicious Amish-style dining (don’t miss the pie! There are over 30 different options!). Their bakery is filled with amazing baked goods including Long Johns as long as your forearm! Located in Middlebury, Indiana.
  • Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery: From fried chicken to fresh baked goods, this spot has something for everyone. Located in Shipshewana, Indiana.
  • In-Home Amish Dinner & Buggy Ride: Perhaps the most memorable dining experience of all. Sitting down at a family table with Amish hosts gives kids a taste of everyday life and an opportunity to connect in a meaningful way. Reservations for this experience limited. Reach out to Visit Shipshewana to help schedule your meal.
  • Olympia Candy Kitchen: A sweet stop where families can enjoy old-fashioned candies, chocolates, ice cream, and basic lunch items. Located in Goshen, Indiana.

Food is one of the best ways to introduce children to another culture and in Amish Country, every bite comes with a story.

3. Outdoor Adventures

If your family loves to stay active, there are plenty of ways to soak in the countryside.

  • Bike the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail: An estimated 15-mile, scenic path perfect for families who love to ride together. This bike trail is truly unique and mostly flat. Perfect for all abilities. You will ride through the country side, see many farm animals along the way, and more! Forgot to bring your bikes? Contact Pumpkinvine Cyclery and they can help!
  • Kayaking with Pigeon River at Trading Post Outfitters: For older kids and teens, this paddling adventure is a beautiful way to experience Amish Country’s natural side. They also offer campsites for tent camping or RV camping! Located in Mongo, Indiana.
  • Wellfield Botanical Gardens: A calm, colorful stop where kids can stretch their legs, see beautiful flowers, and relax as a family. They offer many events throughout the year and have a large amphitheater where they host music nights in the garden. Located in Elkhart, Indiana.

This is where Amish Country really shines as a “take a deep breath and disconnect” destination. Wide open spaces and slower rhythms are perfect for reconnecting as a family.

4. Arts, Music, and Culture

Learning about Amish Country doesn’t stop with food and farms. There’s a vibrant cultural side too.

  • Blue Gate Theatre: A must for families who enjoy live entertainment. Concerts and shows here are family-friendly and fun. Located in Shipshewana, Indiana.
  • Midwest Museum of American Art: A great spot to expose kids to creativity and history. They host the largest Norma Rockwell Collection! Located in Elkhart, Indiana.
  • Davis Mercantile: A four-story building filled with shops, toys, and the famous carousel is sure to be a hit with kids. Located in Shipshewana, Indiana.

Families can balance hands-on learning with cultural experiences that spark imagination.

5. Unique Places to Stay

Where you sleep can become part of the adventure!

  • Hotel Elkhart: A modern, clean hotel in downtown Elkhart with a fun rooftop bar for parents (and a great view).
  • Blue Gate Garden Inn: Perfect for families staying in Shipshewana, with amenities that make traveling with kids easy and enjoyable. They offer a huge indoor pool, arcade, ice cream shop, and a lovely patio with firepits. A great spot to stay!

The right accommodations help keep the trip stress-free, giving parents space to recharge after busy days.

Bonus Stop Ideas

If you have extra time, here are a few more places to round out your trip:

  • Shipshewana Auction at the Trading Place: A bustling experience where kids can watch the excitement of live auctions. This is the Midwest’s largest flea market! You could easily spend a day wandering and shopping.
  • Brass Elk Brewing: A family-friendly spot where parents can enjoy a local brew while kids dig into good food. Located in Elkhart, Indiana.

Why Families Will Love Amish Country

Travel is one of the best teachers. In Northern Indiana, kids don’t just see another culture; they live it through hands-on experiences, delicious meals, and authentic encounters. Amish Country offers families a chance to slow down, disconnect from screens, and reconnect with each other.

Whether you’re biking through the countryside, rolling pretzels side by side, or laughing together at the Blue Gate Theatre, Amish Country is a place where memories are made. The kind your kids will talk about long after the trip ends.