# Romantic Couples Getaway Ideas in Shipshewana, Indiana *By James Hills — Updated October 2026* Written by: [James Hills](https://coupleplaces.com/james-hills.html) Created: 03 November 2024 Last Updated: 19 October 2026 Top BlogHits: 2964Reading time: 05:05 Heather and I love taking trips to far off exotic places, but we also enjoy short weekend road trips to go try some new foods and get out of the house for a couple days to help reset ourselves. Shipshewana, Indiana is the perfect place to do that as I discovered during a recent visit while attending the Midwest Travel Network conference there. For couples seeking a charming escape filled with shared experiences and opportunities to deepen their bond, Shipshewana, Indiana, offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious treats. Here’s a roundup of activities that make this Amish country town the perfect destination for a memorable couple's getaway. ******Building A Shipshewana Day Around Both Your Tastes****Article Index** Shipshewana has more to do than one day holds, so the two of you will enjoy it more if you choose a few things deliberately. - **Each pick one anchor.** Before you arrive, choose one thing you each most want to do and build the day around those two. The rest becomes a bonus rather than a checklist. - **Set a souvenir budget first.** Agree on an amount before walking into the flea market or the shops. It keeps the browsing relaxed and avoids a debate at every booth. - **Keep a rainy-day swap.** Know what you would do indoors if weather turns, such as shops, a show or a long meal. Having it decided means you do not lose an hour arguing in a parking lot. - **Bring questions for the Amish dinner.** Think of a couple of respectful things you are curious about, like how a day on a farm works. Listening to the answers together gives you something to talk about on the drive home. - **Stay one slow evening.** If you can, add a night so you are not rushing back after the theater. The town is quiet after the shops close, and that is a good time to just talk. 1. [Things To Consider About Visiting An Amish Community](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#things-to-consider-about-visiting-an-amish-community)[Photo Etiquette in Amish Country](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#photo-etiquette-in-amish-country) 2. [Timing is Everything](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#timing-is-everything) 3. [Old-School Booking Methods](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#old-school-booking-methods) 4. [Sharing the Road with Buggies](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#sharing-the-road-with-buggies) [Bike or Hike Along the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#bike-or-hike-along-the-pumpkinvine-nature-trail)[Dine in an Amish Home](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#dine-in-an-amish-home)[Take an Amish Buggy Tour](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#take-a-buggy-tour)[Visit the Shipshewana Trading Place Flea Market or Auction](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#visit-the-shipshewana-trading-place-flea-market-or-auction)[Share Some Amish Treats Together](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#share-some-amish-treats-together)[Attend a Concert at Blue Gate Theater](https://coupleplaces.com/romantic-couples-getaway-ideas-in-shipshewana-indiana.html#attend-a-concert-at-blue-gate-theater) Now to be fair, I didn't have Heather with me on this trip but I can't wait for her to join me sometime soon. However, as I walked through some shops and talked with folks it became clear - Shipshewana is more than just a place to eat a big hearty Amish meal and attend an auction. There's tons of great stuff that both of us would enjoy doing together! ### This Heart-Shaped Waffle Maker Is Perfect for a Romantic Breakfast in Bed Who doesn't love heart-shaped waffles to enjoy as part of a romantic breakfast in bed. CouplePlaces [Read More](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/xy7ahgVo9CB5KKMAYnHjDQ.632) ### Let's Get Deep Question Card Game for Couples A 200 card question game that builds intimacy, great for date nights, couples gifts and long distance relationships. Amazon (affiliate) $12.97[Check Price on Amazon](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/xy7ahgVo9CB5KKMAYnHjDQ.2075) ### Romance In Ohio This Fall: Discover Why This State Is The Heart of It All! Romantic fall getaways in Ohio offer couples scenic hiking, lakefront cruising, and wine country charm. Perfect for sophisticated partners seeking meaningful autumn adventures with authentic Midwest hospitality and surprising romantic discoveries. CouplePlaces [Read More](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/xy7ahgVo9CB5KKMAYnHjDQ.625) Promoted by FlowAds ## Things To Consider About Visiting An Amish Community If you've never visited an Amish community before, you might not be aware that this is a truly different culture. While many of the folks you meet engage with "English" folks on a daily basis, they still maintain their traditions and religious as well as cultural preferences. Remember, you are a guest in their community, so it is essential to respect them and their culture. After all, that's why you've traveled to experience this unique place ... right? With that being said, here in Shipshewana, things are a bit different, and they've done a great job of building out a fantastic tourism experience that blends the best of Amish and English cultures. That's why I thought that sign above at the Blue Gate Garden Inn was so funny. On the surface you think this might be some sleepy boring place to visit but it's got a ton of great stuff to do, taste, and see! Let's take a look at some basic tips though, to make sure you have an awesome romantic getaway in Shipshewana, Indiana! ### Photo Etiquette in Amish Country Many Amish avoid being photographed because of the Bible's command against making graven images, and because posing for pictures can seem prideful. While you can take pictures of buildings, buggies, and scenery, avoid photographing Amish people directly. If someone turns away from your camera, respect their wishes. ### Timing is Everything Most Amish businesses are closed on Sundays to observe the Sabbath. Many shops also close earlier than you might expect - often by 5 PM. Some restaurants and stores only accept cash, so visit the ATM beforehand. The famous Shipshewana Flea Market operates only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from May through September. ### Old-School Booking Methods Many local restaurants and lodging options don't have websites or online booking systems. The best way to make arrangements is often by phone - keep a pen handy to write down directions, as GPS may not be reliable for some Amish-area addresses. Some B&Bs and restaurants still rely on paper reservation books. ### Sharing the Road with Buggies You'll be sharing the roads with horse-drawn buggies, so drive cautiously, especially at dawn, dusk, and on rural roads. Pass buggies slowly and give them plenty of space - the horses can be startled by cars passing too quickly or closely. Watch for the reflective orange triangles that mark buggies and keep your high beams off when approaching them at night. ## Bike or Hike Along the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail Explore the lush landscapes of Northern Indiana together by biking or hiking the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. This scenic trail winds through picturesque Amish farmland, offering opportunities for quiet conversation, fresh air, and beautiful views. This 17-mile trail connecting Shipshewana with neighboring towns can be done as one long bike ride or just pick a spot for a leisurely stroll. Bonus points if you go and pack a picnic with home-made cheeses, meats, fresh lemonade, and maybe even a fried pie or some other delicious treat made by local Amish families. To make this experience more than just another ordinary adventure, bring a snack with you that you haven't tried before. For instance, when you're shopping at one of the local markets like Yoders or E & S, try looking for something special like butterscotch peanut butter or Amish peanut butter spread and talk about what thoughts come to mind as you try something new for the first time. ## Dine in an Amish Home Years ago when I was younger, Amish communities were pretty closed off and mysterious. Here though, you can actually book a [dinner hosted by an Amish family](https://visitshipshewana.org/dining-in-an-amish-home-an-unforgettable-experience-in-shipshewana-indiana/) in [one of their homes](https://visitshipshewana.org/listings/yoders-homestyle-cooking-llc/). While we love the Blue Gate Restaurant ... this experience can be so much more authentic! Sharing a meal in an Amish home allows you and your partner to enjoy authentic Amish cuisine while learning about the traditions and lifestyle of the local community. While it's easy to look at someone in a buggy as you pass them by on the road and wonder ... now is your chance to ask questions and maybe even learn something new about building a stronger relationship without modern distractions like cell phones and TV. If the schedule doesn't allow for the full in-home experience, try something authentic like an [Amish Haystack Supper](https://shipshewanatradingplace.com/blog/amish-haystacks-and-where-to-get-them-in-shipshewana) at one of the local restaurants. ## Take an Amish Buggy Tour You've probably hired a horse-drawn carriage ride for a romantic tour through a park or some historic town before but here it's a chance to do something that isn't simply reviving an ancient method of transportation. Instead, you can actually experience how Amish families get back and forth to Church or visit their neighbors. You can hop on a classic Amish buggy ride. A local guide will take you through the scenic streets and countryside, providing a peaceful, slower-paced way to explore Shipshewana. If a short tour in a traditional Amish Buggy isn't really your style, don't worry. Companies like Buggy Lane Tours offer a more full experience including their "Four Star Tour" that features a 20 min trip to their farm where you can see cows being milked, tour the farm, and learn more about their culture. They also offer a "Five Star Tour" that includes a family-style dinner with an Amish family plus farm tour. ## Visit the Shipshewana Trading Place Flea Market or Auction Experience the excitement of the Shipshewana Trading Place, one of the Midwest’s largest flea markets and auction houses. Browse countless booths filled with unique goods, antiques, and handmade crafts that you can bring home as mementos of your trip. Exploring the market together encourages teamwork and makes for fun conversations over which treasures to pick. While obviously, this is a great opportunity to shop for curios and knickknacks to decorate the house, take advantage of this opportunity to share memories about your childhood while browsing through a display of baseball cards, old movie posters, or classic signs.    ## Share Some Amish Treats Together Shipshewana is famous for its delectable Amish treats and sharing them is a sweet way to connect with someone special. From freshly churned ice cream, to warm pretzels right out of the oven, a nearly endless variety of homemade pies, and crunchy popcorn from local vendors ... there's something for everybody here. Sampling these treats together allows you to savor the town’s authentic flavors while enjoying each other’s company. Don't forget to try some "retro" candies like honey sticks, maple sugar candies, and other confections too! ## Attend a Concert at Blue Gate Theater Finally, it's time to wrap up your day with a live performance at the Blue Gate Theater. This is a surprisingly good venue that offers a variety of concerts, musical theater, and plays in an intimate setting. From Christian music to classic rock and seasonal concerts featuring Christmas music, you and your partner will certainly have a great time dancing, singing, and building memories!  So, if you can't tell already, I CAN'T WAIT to take Heather here and create our own experiences. She grew up in [North East Ohio](https://coupleplaces.com/travel-ideas/ohio-romantic-getaways.html) near an Amish community and over the years she has shared tales about friends she knew there and the craftsman and farmers etc. so for us, this will be an even more special opportunity for her to take her memories of childhood and create new experiences together that will be uniquely ours! Top Picks Flow Voyages ### Book your next cruise with Heather at Flow Voyages Flow Voyages is a travel advisor specializing in cruises and resorts. [Contact Flow Voyages](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/uL_tSbGVImy4TiVx6QakqA.617) Promoted by FlowAds --- Written by: [James Hills](https://coupleplaces.com/james-hills.html) Pro-BloggerExpert BloggerThought Leader James Hills is a travel blogger and relationship content creator who, alongside his wife Heather, a Certified Recreational Therapist, has spent over 20 years discovering how shared travel experiences strengthen marriages and deepen emotional connections. Through two decades of marriage, they've learned that the most meaningful relationships grow through intentional adventures, quality time together, and the kind of authentic experiences that create lasting bonds between partners. Drawing from their extensive travel experience and Heather's professional background in recreational therapy, James founded CouplePlaces.com to help sophisticated couples enhance their relationships through thoughtfully chosen getaways, romantic experiences, and premium travel opportunities. His approach focuses on substance over spectacle - identifying the specific elements of luxury resorts, cruises, and destinations that truly contribute to relationship building rather than just impressive social media posts. James specializes in helping established couples navigate the balance between comfort and adventure, creating travel experiences that accommodate different preferences while fostering deeper intimacy and connection. His practical advice stems from real-world experience managing the complexities of long-term relationships, from newlywed adventures to empty-nester rediscovery phases. ### 🚢 Ready To Book A Getaway? Need a cruise or all-inclusive resort for a romantic getaway? Let's [**Plan Your Couples Getaway**](https://coupleplaces.com/book-a-romantic-getaway.html) today! #### Is A Cruise Or All Inclusive Resort A Better Choice For A Warm Weather Winter Getaway [Is A Cruise Or All Inclusive Resort A Better Choice For A Warm Weather Winter Getaway](https://coupleplaces.com/cruise-or-resort-for-warm-weather-winter-getaway.html) [Plan Your Next Vacation Today!](https://coupleplaces.com/book-a-romantic-getaway.html) ### Related Articles #### Kadún Gives Couples a Different Option For A Romantic Cabo San Lucas Weekend Getaway [Kadún Gives Couples a Different Option For A Romantic Cabo San Lucas Weekend Getaway](https://coupleplaces.com/kadun-boutique-hotel-cabo-san-lucas-couples.html) #### Before the Baby Arrives: A Practical Babymoon Planning Guide for Couples [Before the Baby Arrives: A Practical Babymoon Planning Guide for Couples](https://coupleplaces.com/babymoon-tips-to-plan-pre-childbirth-getaway.html) #### Before You Book a Couples-Only Resort, Know What You're Actually Booking [Before You Book a Couples-Only Resort, Know What You're Actually Booking](https://coupleplaces.com/couples-only-what-to-know-before-booking-an-all-inclusive-resort.html) #### Active Listening Ideas For Couples To Try On Vacation [Active Listening Ideas For Couples To Try On Vacation](https://coupleplaces.com/active-listening-ideas-for-couples-to-try-on-vacation.html) © [Flow Media Marketing](https://flowmediamarketing.com) 2022 - 2026 CouplePlaces features Travel Blogger James Hills and his wife Heather, a Certified Recreational Therapist. 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