Several years ago, I had the opportunity to experience a unique evening out. Friends of mine and I visited an Amish farm in hopes of having a good meal and an evening of fun. Not knowing much about the culture of Amish families, I was pleasantly surprised to meet such wonderfully creative people. Our meal although served simply, was charming. The accommodations were quaint and sparsely decorated, however, immaculately clean and pleasing to the eye. The dinner served before us was a feast of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, biscuits, beans, and ice cold tea. We tasted homemade pies for desert, and then set out in an open wagon for a leisurely ride through the farm, laughing and enjoying one another’s company.

I’ve looked back on that evening oftentimes and wished for more of those. How relaxing and comforting those few hours were especially when spent with friends. Those Amish families are gone now. Moved on. Only memories are left. When I discovered Northern Indiana – I knew once again I had found a revival of those memories of that long ago evening. This is Amish country (www.amishcountry.org) with the Heritage Trail Tour which can be driven through at your leisurely pace. You can take either the cassette narrated guide tour or drive your own route down back country roads. Meet unforgettable men and women who are gifted in old-world craftsmanship. You’ll see vistas, pastoral settings, and landscapes, and charming towns along this 90 mile drive. This is where you want to get out of your vehicle and take in a deep breath, throw your head back gaze up into the azure sky, or sit quietly on a grassy slope and watch the sun’s golden glow as it slowly lowers itself behind a distant vista.

Northern Indiana is known also for its odd industrial segment of America. RV’s are waiting in line to be shipped out to the rest of the country. You’ll find numbers of these fabulous homes–on-wheels in nearby Nappanee, Indiana. You want to upgrade your rig? This is the place to get the information. Next door to the RV’s is Mary’s Pastries. This pastry shop holds rows of various pies, jellies, jams, cookies, fudge, and LICORICE!!! My favorite is the black kind. You can’t stop here without checking out at least a piece of pecan or apple pie. Further on in Goshen you’ll meet friendly faces at Olympia Candy Kitchen. Besides the sweet treats, laptops sit on tables waiting to be used. For a small ($1.50 at time of writing) fee, one can eat sweets, drink coffee, and check email. Just the time to send a note home and make those left behind, jealous of all these wonderful experiences.

In Middlebury you can sample Old Hoosier Meats and cheese factory Deutsch Kase Haus. Onto Shipshewana for more food! Jojo’s Pretzels and Yoder Popcorn will finish filling you up. Elkhart, Indiana (RV Capitol of the World) you’ll discover a range of RV’s from simply economical (a desirable trait during these outrageous gas prices) to opulence, refined, and luxurious! One kid (whose dad had bought the largest class A land RV available) said to another, “you can’t believe what kind of RV my grandparents bought – it’s better than the one we’ve got!” Grandpa had bought a type B conversion style. That just goes to prove that beauty is in the eye of the beholder – even if it is a 10 year old!

Seems that all I’ve done is talk about food on this trip. I promise there are some great sites and activities for all ages in Northern Indiana. Besides the yearly RV rallies which congregate, try for an RV manufacturer tour. Ever wonder what goes in behind that console? The Elkhart and Goshen areas are busting with economy and jobs. Hey, you might want to settle in Northern Indiana if you are looking for a job! RV’s abound everywhere around here and everyone has an opinion on these homes-on-wheels. Camping World just happens to be here also. Who could ask for a better place to spend time looking over the newest items for RV’s and everything to make your life easier on the road? Some even suggest renting an RV and driving to Northern Indiana for the experience (www.gorving.com).
Beware of the red hat women! They role out the red carpet just for the girls! Red hatters like RV’ing too and will find talent shows, parades, entertainment and special discounts waiting for them (www.middleburyin.com). June 24-25 is the red hat date! During the month of May, varied activities will interest those who travel through these Amish areas. Mayfest – May 6-7 in Shipshewana brims with baking contests, parades, children’s games, live entertainment, and shopping. Experience the Battle of Bonneyville – May 13-15 this Civil War enactment complete with period dress is a living historical experience (www.elkhartcountyparks.org). RV’ers will want to check out these parks while in the area: Eby’s Pines Campgrounds 1-574-848-4583, Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds 1-574-533-3247, Middlesbury KOA 1-800-562-5892, Riverside Campgrounds 1-260-562-3742, Shipshewana Campground and Amish Log Cabin Lodging 1-260-768-7770, Shipshewana Campgrounds South 1-260-768-4669, Twin Mills Camping Resort 1-260-562-3212, Elkhart Campground 1-574-264-2914, and Pla-Mor Campground 1-574-546-3665.

I’ve talked about food so much, I’m feeling full and yet I could try one more candy apple, pecan pie, licorice, or maybe a few more pretzels. Northern Indiana flavor, of course! Happy Traveling!

(All photos are courtesy of Elkhart County CVB)