Cotton candy sold from a vendor's booth at the Shipshewana Flea Market. Photo: backroads.org
SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET: I posted last week about how the ubiquitous RV business in northern Indiana has really experienced a comeback over the past year.  But there's another economic engine at work in northern Indiana and its beginning to run at full tilt also: The Amish.  The Shipshewana Flea Market itself is not Amish run and the Amish presence there is actually quite sparse.  But if the Shipshewana Flea Market were located in Lexington, Kentucky, it probably wouldn't be near the draw.  What brings people to the market is its location in picturesque northern Indiana's Amish country, at least that is what civic and commerce leaders in the area say. People spill out of the flea market and explore the countryside where they can buy fresh eggs, baked goods and furniture from many of the area's Amish home-based businesses.  The end of the Great Recession has really spurred the tourist trade in the area.  Of course it also contributes to the delicate balance between the area Amish who often rely on the tourist dollars, yet wish to keep 21st century ways at bay.  It's a tough task to balance the two.  Read about the resurgence of tourism in northern Indiana's Amish country. Have you visited the Shipshewana Flea Market? If so, what did you think?
Cheryl
we are hoping ........we go to shipshewana time to time..never
the flea market....
Pam
There are over a thousand booths......some duplication of vendors but there is lots and lots of produce.......plants.......flowers.......trees......besides a few antiques. It a fun inexpensive way to spend the day. You pay to park but not to shop.
Krista
It is a fun place to go.Leave your car in one spot.The area gets very very busy.Then wear comfortable shoes because you will be doing a lot of walking.They have one of the best bulk stores; Yoders. As always respect the Amish , the picture thing gets out of hand alot. Shipshewana is about itwo hours from Chicago via the Indiana Toll Road. A great daycation.
Wendy P
A flea market was instrumental in the revival of my NJ hometown. Unfortunately the McMansions moved in and the flea market was done away with.
June
I went to the Shipshewana flea market when it was in its prime--no commercialization, no outside vendors, when it truly seemed like an Amish place. There were lots and lots of buggies there. There were true antiques--none of this cotton candy stuff. I used to live in northern Indiana--the freshest air you'll ever find. I went there with my parents when I was back visiting. It was probably in the 1960's.