Van Buren IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Van Buren, Indiana.
1. WonderLab Science Museum
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE LEARNING CENTER
WonderLab Science Museum offers visitors a hands-on experience with scientific concepts through various interactive exhibits. Children and adults alike can engage with displays that make learning about physics, biology, and chemistry both fun and educational. The museum regularly hosts special events and workshops designed to spark curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of science.
2. Indiana Military Museum
HISTORIC MILITARY COLLECTION
The Indiana Military Museum houses an impressive collection of military artifacts, vehicles, and memorabilia spanning multiple conflicts. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring uniforms, weapons, and personal items that tell the stories of service members throughout American history. The museum provides a respectful and educational environment for understanding the impact of warfare and honoring those who served.
3. The Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy
CLASSIC COMEDY HERITAGE
The Red Skelton Museum celebrates the life and career of the beloved American comedian and entertainer Red Skelton. Exhibits showcase his famous characters, personal memorabilia, and contributions to radio, television, and film comedy. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays and video presentations that capture Skelton's unique brand of humor and his significant impact on American entertainment.
4. Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum
ART IN NATURAL SETTING
Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum combines art appreciation with the beauty of nature on winding paths featuring contemporary sculptures. Visitors can wander through wooded areas where artistic creations harmonize with the natural landscape, creating a unique outdoor gallery experience. The museum occasionally hosts sculpture pouring events where guests can witness the creation process and even participate in making their own metal art.
5. Blue Gate Carriage
TRADITIONAL AMISH TRANSPORTATION
Blue Gate Carriage offers authentic horse-drawn carriage rides through the scenic Amish countryside of Shipshewana. Visitors can experience the gentle pace of traditional transportation while learning about Amish culture and history from knowledgeable guides. The rides provide excellent photo opportunities and a glimpse into a simpler way of life that continues to thrive in this unique community.
6. Blue Gate Performing Arts Center
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Blue Gate Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of live performances including musicals, concerts, and comedy shows in Shipshewana. The state-of-the-art venue combines modern amenities with the charm and hospitality that the region is known for. Visitors can enjoy professional productions featuring both local talent and nationally recognized performers in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
7. Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery
AUTHENTIC AMISH CUISINE
Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery serves traditional Amish and Mennonite cuisine in a warm, family-friendly environment. Visitors can indulge in hearty, home-style meals featuring fried chicken, roast beef, and an array of freshly baked pies and breads. The establishment also offers a selection of local crafts and food items to take home as souvenirs of the authentic Amish country experience.
8. Blue Gate Theatre
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION
Blue Gate Theatre provides quality, family-friendly entertainment with a focus on musical performances, comedy shows, and theatrical productions. Visitors can enjoy shows that reflect the values and traditions of the local community while appealing to audiences of all backgrounds. The intimate setting allows for an engaging experience where every seat offers a good view of the performances that frequently celebrate Americana, gospel music, and wholesome humor.
9. Buggy Lane Tours
GUIDED AMISH COMMUNITY EXPLORATION
Buggy Lane Tours offers guided excursions through the Amish countryside, providing insight into this distinctive cultural community. Visitors travel in comfortable vehicles while knowledgeable guides share information about Amish history, beliefs, and daily practices. The tours often include stops at Amish businesses, farms, and workshops where guests can observe traditional crafts and purchase authentic locally-made products.
10. Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park
INTERACTIVE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park offers visitors close encounters with both exotic and domestic animals in a family-friendly environment. Guests can feed, pet, and learn about various species while enjoying the peaceful rural setting just outside Shipshewana. The park features guided wagon tours through areas where animals roam freely, creating memorable opportunities for wildlife observation and education about animal care and conservation.
11. Eden Meadow Banquets
RUSTIC EVENT VENUE
Eden Meadow Banquets provides a picturesque setting for special events with its charming rural atmosphere and elegant facilities. The venue combines rustic charm with modern amenities, making it perfect for weddings, family reunions, and corporate gatherings. Visitors attending events here can appreciate the beautiful landscaping and thoughtful design that showcases the natural beauty of Indiana's countryside.
12. Shipshewana Trading Place
MIDWEST'S LARGEST FLEA MARKET
Shipshewana Trading Place features hundreds of vendors selling everything from handcrafted furniture to fresh produce in one of the Midwest's largest flea markets. Visitors can browse countless booths offering antiques, collectibles, clothing, and unique gifts while experiencing the bustling atmosphere of this popular attraction. The market operates seasonally and is complemented by year-round shops and an auction house that further enhance the shopping experience.
13. Menno-Hof Amish Mennonite Information Center
CULTURAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
Menno-Hof Amish Mennonite Information Center provides an educational journey through the history and lifestyle of Anabaptist groups including the Amish and Mennonites. Interactive exhibits guide visitors through the European origins, persecution, and eventual migration of these religious communities to America. The center offers authentic insights into how these groups maintain their traditions while adapting to modern challenges, all presented by knowledgeable staff members who can answer questions about this fascinating culture.
14. Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market
TRADITIONAL COMMERCE HUB
The Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market combines the excitement of live auctions with the treasure-hunting appeal of one of the region's most extensive marketplaces. Visitors can experience the fast-paced livestock and antique auctions where Amish and English (non-Amish) buyers and sellers participate in a tradition that spans generations. The vibrant atmosphere features the sights, sounds, and flavors of rural Indiana commerce, making it both an entertaining attraction and an authentic cultural experience.
15. Davis Mercantile
UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Davis Mercantile houses a delightful collection of specialty shops across four floors in a distinctive building featuring a hand-carved wooden carousel at its center. Visitors can browse stores offering everything from quilts and handcrafted furniture to gourmet foods and toys while enjoying the architectural details of this shopping destination. The mercantile serves as a showcase for local craftsmanship and entrepreneurship, reflecting the creativity and skill of the surrounding community.