Delivers great tastes, Amish culture and adventure
The Heritage Trail has a little bit of everything, and a lot to offer everyone from foodies to adventure seekers to those looking to slow down and relax. 2018 marks the 25th anniversary of the Heritage Trail.
This 90-mile loop has been rated by the editors of Life magazine as one of America’s top scenic drives. Follow along through Elkhart, Bristol, Middlebury, Shipshewana, Goshen, Nappanee and Wakarusa where you can explore area attractions, vibrant downtowns and rural Amish life.
OLD-FASHIONED GOODNESS
Handmade and hand-crafted is not a trend for the Amish. If you’re an early riser, start your day at Dutch Country Market in Middlebury, where you’ll get a peek into the world of noodle-making with Katie Lehman and her family. Try the supersized cinnamon rolls at Country Lane Bakery or indulge in a slice of Das Dutchman Essenhaus’ 30 varieties of pie. Both can be found in the charming town of Middlebury.
Discover why the Amish are known for their woodworking skills. The Schmucker brothers at Homestyle Furniture in Nappanee specialize in hand-crafted furniture. Tour the wood shop at Teaberry Wood Products, Middlebury, where you can witness hand-carved puzzles and beautiful baskets being made.
DON’T MISS THIS
Take home a great memory with snapshots from our best selfie spots. Marvel at old-school technology with a demonstration at an historic grist mill at Bonneyville Mill County Park and discover why it’s the most photographed spot in Elkhart County. Let the giant toadstools dwarf over you at Krider World’s Fair Garden in Middlebury. Or explore the urban oasis of Wellfield Botanic Gardens in Elkhart for the perfect post by the idyllic pond.
DELICIOUS DESTINATIONS
There’s no way you’ll go hungry on the Heritage Trail. For Amish favorites such as roast beef, noodles and mashed potatoes, look no farther than Amish Acres in Nappanee or Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury.
Amazing family-owned pizzerias can be found in every city and town, including a “life-changing” pie at Pizzeria Venturi in Goshen. Elkhart’s Gateway Mile offers gourmet fare and fine wine at Artisan while Iechyd Da Brewing Co. serves up craft beer and pizza.
Sweet tooths will have no problem finding freshly made treats, from the scrumptious doughnuts at Rise ‘n Roll Bakery in Middlebury to hand-dipped delights at Olympia Candy Kitchen, Goshen.
Get nostalgic with a candy selection from your childhood at the Wakarusa Dime Store or snag a stool at the 1940s soda fountain for a burger paired with a Green River soda at Goshen’s South Side Soda Shop.
NIGHTTIME ENERGY
Live entertainment heats up the night with everything from musical theatre to indie concerts. The Lerner Theatre in Elkhart offers a full schedule of touring concerts and comedians while Ignition Music in Goshen has become a favorite with emerging artists.
Enjoy live concerts and family friendly theatre productions at the Heritage Hall at Das Dutchman Essenhaus. The historic Bristol Opera House offers award-winning community theatre, and The Round Barn Theatre at Amish Acres in Nappanee brings the audience to its feet with their exciting Broadway-style musicals.
