Elkhart, Indiana, is rightfully proud of its titles as the “RV Capital of the World” and “Band Instrument Capital of the World” due to its noteworthy manufacturing heritage. But it also takes great pride in being recognized as a vibrant and diverse community, celebrating its natural beauty, economic vitality, history and culture.
The city’s walkable downtown is uniquely situated at the juncture of two rivers, attracting visitors and residents to its Gateway Mile of shops, restaurants and parks. Elkhart and the surrounding area are also home to one of the country’s largest Amish communities, offering a unique glimpse into their lifestyle.
Check out these things to do in Elkhart for an unforgettable spring trip.
See more: Winter Thrills Meet Small-Town Charm with These 8 Things to Do in Steuben County
1. A Blooming Good Time to Visit
Spring is the perfect time to visit Elkhart, and Wellfield Botanic Gardens enchants visitors with 36 stunning acres, including more than 20 themed garden areas, lakes and waterfalls. Linton’s Enchanted Gardens, Indiana’s largest garden center, offers a family-oriented entertainment center with a petting zoo, exotic birds (including Blossom, the blue-and-yellow macaw featured on the cover), train rides, gemstone mining and more within its 9-acre site.
2. Commune with Nature
Elkhart’s natural surroundings are the perfect setting for a variety of outdoor activities. The city has 20 parks encompassing more than 250 acres of gardens and green spaces, with a host of trails ideal for strolling, hiking or biking. Plus, the St. Joseph and Elkhart rivers are ideal for a peaceful kayak or canoe outing.
3. Stroll the Gateway Mile
Be sure to tour Elkhart’s downtown Gateway Mile with its inviting collection of shops, restaurants, outdoor art and murals, and gorgeous parks and gardens. The city’s scenic Riverwalk meanders along the St. Joseph and Elkhart rivers, connecting to an expansive series of parks, gardens and green spaces that invite strolling, picnicking and quiet reflection. The downtown also hosts numerous special events throughout the year.
4. Where Art Abounds
A vibrant arts and culture scene in Elkhart celebrates the area’s history and its local artisans. The Midwest Museum of American Art showcases artwork, sculpture and ceramics, including the state’s largest collections of Norman Rockwell lithographs and Overbeck pottery as well as original works by Andy Warhol. Built in 1908, Ruthmere Museum is an eclectic beaux arts-style home restored and lavishly appointed to offer a window into America’s Gilded Age. For another taste of the past, visit Lerner Theatre, a 1920s-era movie palace transformed into a performing arts complex.
See more: Find Fall Fun with 8 Things to Do in French Lick, Indiana
5. Meet Your Favorite Superheroes
Here’s your opportunity to visit one of the few superhero and comic book museums. The Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum captures the history of superheroes through more than 70,000 comic books, original art, film and animation, plus over 10,000 toys, artifacts and props, including costumes from Adam West’s “Batman” and Clayton Moore’s “Lone Ranger.”
6. On the Road Again
More than 80% of recreational vehicles in the United States are produced in and around Elkhart, making it the ideal location for the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum. The Founders Hall displays trailers, photos and memorabilia tracing the history of recreational vehicles from the 1920s to today’s advanced homes on wheels. And you can even park your own RV on-site while you visit.
7. Riding the Rails
If trains are your thing, you can recapture the glory days when the New York Central Railroad reached Elkhart in 1851 and then stretched across America. The National New York Central Railroad Museum honors what was once the country’s second-largest railroad, featuring steam and diesel locomotives, a variety of train cars, historical artifacts, a kids’ play train, and train rides.
See more: The French Lick Scenic Railway Transports Visitors Into a Winter Wonderland
8. A Trail of Blooms and Heritage
The 90-mile Heritage Trail is an easy drive, allowing you to enjoy Elkhart and the surrounding towns. Happening May through September, the award-winning Quilt Gardens blend gardening and art into a patchwork of blooms and giant hand-painted murals. Also along the country lanes is the best way to fully experience the Amish heritage and culture, with Amish-owned shops showcasing crafts and tasty treats.
9. Eats and Treats Galore
Have no fear when your hunger bell rings because Elkhart can satisfy your taste buds with choices ranging from Artisan with its AAA Four Diamond rating to relaxed cafes and bistros such as The Vine, as well as Iechyd Da Brewing Company and Brass Elk Brewing for pizza and beers. Bakeries and coffee shops are ready to indulge you with a variety of goodies. And this is also the perfect opportunity to experience traditional Amish-style dining found along the Heritage Trail, such as the family-owned Das Dutchman Essenhaus.
See more: 9 Things to Do in Hendricks County This Spring
To learn more and discover additional attractions, check out visitelkhartcounty.com.
