Elkhart Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Elkhart with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Elkhart, Indiana.


Elkhart, Indiana, is a vibrant city located in Northern Indiana, along the banks of the St. Joseph and Elkhart Rivers. The city is famous for its rich history, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a culture buff, outdoor adventurer, or simply looking for a relaxing vacation, Elkhart has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide to Elkhart, we’ve covered everything you need to know to plan your trip, including the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay.

List of Places to Visit in Elkhart

There are plenty of attractions in Elkhart to keep you entertained throughout your trip. Here is a list of the top must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wellfield Botanic Gardens: Spread over 36 acres, this botanical garden is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.

  • National New York Central Railroad Museum: Located in the heart of Elkhart, this museum showcases the rich history of the New York Central Railroad.

  • RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum: This museum is home to a vast collection of classic RVs and motorhomes.

Natural Attractions of Elkhart: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Elkhart Riverwalk: Take a stroll along the Elkhart Riverwalk, a serene riverside trail connecting several parks downtown.

  • Bonneyville Mill County Park: This 223-acre park is home to scenic waterfalls, historic buildings, and hiking trails.

  • Upper St. Joseph and Elkhart River: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the idyllic waterways of Elkhart.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elkhart

Elkhart has several hiking and biking trails suitable for all abilities. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Harrison Trail: This six-mile trail winds its way through the woods and along the Elkhart River, offering scenic views of the city skyline.

  • Pumpkinvine Nature Trail: This 25-mile trail runs north-south through Elkhart County and is ideal for biking.

Best Things to Do in Elkhart: Activities and Tours

  • Amish Country Tour: Take a tour of the Indiana Amish countryside and learn about Amish culture, history, and traditions.

  • View a Show at The Lerner Theatre: This historic theater is renowned for its broadway-style productions and live performances.

  • Take a Helicopter Ride Over Elkhart: For a unique perspective of the city, take a scenic helicopter tour over Elkhart.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elkhart

Here is an example week-long itinerary for Elkhart:

Day 1: Visit the Wellfield Botanic Gardens and take a stroll along the Elkhart Riverwalk.

Day 2: Take a tour of the National New York Central Railroad Museum and explore the downtown.

Day 3: Spend a day exploring Bonneyville Mill County Park and Upper St. Joseph and Elkhart River.

Day 4: Rent a bike and take a ride along the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail.

Day 5: Take a tour of the Indiana Amish countryside and learn about Amish culture.

Day 6: View a show at The Lerner Theatre.

Day 7: Take a scenic helicopter tour over Elkhart.

Food and Drink Scene of Elkhart

Indiana is known for its comfort food and Elkhart is no exception. Here is what to eat and drink in Elkhart:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hoosier Tenderloin: A classic Indiana sandwich made with a breaded pork tenderloin.

  • Sugar Cream Pie: A creamy and sweet pie made with sugar, cream, and vanilla.

  • Sweet Corn: Elkhart is famous for its fresh and delicious sweet corn.

Local Beverages

  • Goshen Brewing Company: This popular brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers made in-house.

  • Das Dutchman Essenhaus: This Amish restaurant serves homemade root beer, lemonade and apple cider.

Where to Stay in Elkhart: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Elkhart has several accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Elkhart: Located downtown, this hotel features modern amenities and luxurious rooms.

  • Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Elkhart: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms.

  • Gardenia’s Garden Guesthouse: This charming and cozy guesthouse is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Elkhart: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Amish Quilts: Handcrafted by local Amish artisans, these quilts are beautiful and unique.

  • Elkhart County Maple Syrup: Made from the sap of local maple trees, this syrup is a must-try local specialty.

Local Culture and Customs of Elkhart

The local culture in Elkhart is influenced by the Amish and Mennonite communities. Visitors should be respectful of their traditions and customs, including dress code and photography restrictions.

Best Time to Visit Elkhart

Elkhart is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the summer months, May through September, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elkhart

Do:

  • Do sample some local foods, such as Hoosier Tenderloin and Sweet Corn

  • Do visit the Amish countryside and learn about their culture

  • Do show respect for the local traditions and customs

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs of the Amish without their permission

  • Don’t wear revealing clothing when visiting an Amish community

  • Don’t make loud noises or disturb the peace while visiting parks or other natural attractions

Safety and Health

Safety in Elkhart

Elkhart is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take standard safety precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Health in Elkhart

Elkhart has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, for basic healthcare needs.

Getting to Elkhart: Transportation Options and Logistics

Elkhart is well-connected by road and air. Here are some transportation options to get to Elkhart:

Airports Near Elkhart

  • South Bend International Airport is the nearest airport, located 20 miles east of Elkhart.

  • Fort Wayne International Airport is located 60 miles west of Elkhart.

Bus Stations Near Elkhart

  • Greyhound Bus Lines and Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach offer bus services to Elkhart.

Other Options

  • Elkhart is conveniently located near several major highways, including Interstate 80/90 and Interstate 94.

How to Get Around in Elkhart

The best way to get around Elkhart is by car or bike. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Elkhart: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Elkhart is surrounded by several popular destinations and excursion options. Here are some ideas:

  • South Bend: Home to the University of Notre Dame, South Bend is a vibrant college town with a rich history and plenty of cultural attractions.

  • Fort Wayne: Indiana’s second-largest city, Fort Wayne offers a range of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities.

  • Michigan City: Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Michigan City is a scenic and relaxing destination known for its beaches and lighthouses.

Conclusion

Elkhart offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, outdoor adventure, and comfort food. With something for everyone, it is an ideal destination for families, solo travelers, and couples. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide and get ready to fall in love with this charming city in Northern Indiana.