Middlebury IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Middlebury, Indiana.
1. Pumpkinvine Nature Trail
SCENIC RAILS-TO-TRAILS PATH
The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail is considered one of the top rails-to-trails in Indiana and serves as the backbone of the Trails of Middlebury. Visitors can pedal past giant toadstool statues and an English tea house as they explore this beautiful pathway through pastoral scenes of Amish life and golden fields. The Rail to Trails Conservancy describes it as a 'must-visit trail' for experiencing genuine Midwestern Americana.
2. Krider World's Fair Garden
HISTORIC BOTANICAL GARDENS
Krider World's Fair Garden is a 2.4-acre space featuring tranquil walking paths, botanical gardens, waterfalls, and a pond that originally appeared at the 1934 Chicago World's Fair. Many pieces from the fair, including the toadstools, windmill, and sculptures, were moved back to Middlebury for the community to enjoy. The garden, described as the gem of the Middlebury Park System, offers a perfect setting for picnics and an idyllic backdrop for photography.
3. Das Dutchman Essenhaus
LARGEST INDIANA RESTAURANT
Das Dutchman Essenhaus is the largest restaurant in Indiana, owned and operated by three generations of the same family. The establishment serves authentic Amish-style recipes that showcase the culinary heritage of the region. Visitors can also enjoy Classic Car Cruise-ins held on Thursdays from May through September at this popular dining destination.
4. Heritage Ridge Creamery
AWARD-WINNING CHEESE SHOP
Heritage Ridge Creamery offers visitors a chance to sample and purchase award-winning cheeses, including their renowned pepper jack. The creamery showcases traditional cheese-making techniques in the heart of Amish country. Visitors can watch cheese being made and enjoy fresh cheese curds and other dairy delicacies.
5. Middlebury Fall Festival
AUTUMN COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Middlebury Fall Festival transforms the town's beautiful parks with displays of food, pumpkins, and mums when the leaves start to change. The celebration features impressive fireworks that light up the autumn sky. Visitors can stroll through the festival grounds enjoying seasonal treats and activities that showcase the community's harvest traditions.
6. Middlebury Summer Festival
LARGE SUMMER PARADE EVENT
The Middlebury Summer Festival is held annually on the last weekend in June in the downtown parks, kicking off summer fun with one of the state's largest festival parades. The celebration includes music, a 5k run, games, and plenty of food vendors. Families can enjoy a full weekend of entertainment and community activities in the heart of Middlebury.
7. The Mill Shopping Center
UNIQUE LOCAL RETAIL HUB
The Mill is a shopping destination in Middlebury where visitors can find stunning home décor at Joyfully Said and modern country finds at Gathered Goods. This retail hub showcases a variety of locally-owned shops with distinctive merchandise. Shoppers can discover unique gifts and home furnishings with authentic Midwestern charm.
8. The Barn Door
VINTAGE ANTIQUES SHOP
The Barn Door offers a unique selection of quality antiques and shabby chic repurposed furnishings with vintage charm. This specialty shop allows visitors to browse through carefully curated items that reflect the area's rich heritage. Shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind pieces with character and history will find plenty to admire in this Middlebury establishment.
9. Legacy Home Furniture
AMISH-CRAFTED HARDWOOD FURNITURE
Legacy Home Furniture is an Amish-owned store featuring hand-crafted hardwood furnishings made with traditional techniques. The showroom displays beautiful pieces that exemplify the region's reputation for quality woodworking and craftsmanship. Visitors can purchase heirloom-quality furniture directly from local artisans who continue generations-old traditions of excellence.
10. Pumpkinvine Cyclery
BIKE SHOP AND RENTALS
Pumpkinvine Cyclery serves as a starting point for exploring the renowned Pumpkinvine Nature Trail by bicycle. This full-service bike shop offers rentals, repairs, and equipment for cyclists of all experience levels. Visitors can get trail information, cycling gear, and local recommendations before heading out to experience Middlebury's scenic pathways.
11. Village Inn Restaurant
BELOVED LOCAL DINER
Village Inn Restaurant is a family-friendly diner beloved by locals for its homestyle American classics. The restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can enjoy comfort food prepared with care. Diners can experience authentic Middlebury hospitality while sampling hearty, traditional fare.
12. Riverbend Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Riverbend Park hosts the annual Riverfest celebration featuring fish shocking demonstrations, informational booths, and kayaking on the Little Elkhart River. The park offers beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor recreation and relaxation throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful riverside setting while participating in various seasonal activities and events.
13. Middlebury Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Middlebury Historical Museum preserves and displays artifacts that tell the story of this area rich in history. Exhibits showcase the influence of Amish families farming the land alongside the development of modern industries like RV manufacturing. Visitors can explore the town's evolution from its early settlement days to its current blend of traditional and contemporary culture.
14. Rise'n Roll Bakery
FAMOUS AMISH PASTRIES
Rise'n Roll Bakery offers visitors a taste of authentic Amish baked goods including their famous cinnamon caramel donuts and other pastries. The bakery creates its delicious treats using traditional recipes and techniques passed down through generations. Visitors often line up early to purchase these freshly made delicacies that have developed a devoted following throughout the region.
15. Wedgewood Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Wedgewood Brewing Company serves locally crafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere that reflects Middlebury's community spirit. The brewery offers a variety of handcrafted ales and lagers that showcase traditional brewing methods with creative local influences. Visitors can relax and sample unique beverages while experiencing the town's growing craft beverage scene.