Things To Do
in Elkhart
Elkhart sits along the St. Joseph River in northern Indiana, offering a friendly Midwestern welcome and a surprising arts scene. Once known as the RV manufacturing hub, the city blends industry heritage with riverside parks and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can explore museums, a vibrant festival calendar, and a compact downtown with local eateries.
With nearby outdoor trails and lakes, Elkhart is a convenient base for easy day trips in northern Indiana.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at one of Elkhart's charming cafés, where you can savor local pastries and fresh coffee. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll around the historic downtown area, admiring the beautiful architecture and unique shops. Don't forget to visit the Elkhart County Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich heritage.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the Ruthmere Mansion, a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture. After the tour, relax at the nearby Island Park, where you can take a peaceful walk along the St. Joseph River. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park's scenic surroundings.
As evening falls, dine at a local restaurant that showcases Elkhart's culinary scene, perhaps trying some regional specialties. After dinner, head to the Elkhart Civic Theatre for a live performance or a movie screening. End your night with a leisurely walk along the riverfront, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your day at the Midwest Museum of American Art, where you can explore an impressive collection of American art through the ages. Engage with the interactive exhibits and enjoy the serene ambiance of the museum's galleries. Grab a quick coffee at the museum café before heading out for the day.
Spend your afternoon at the Elkhart ArtWalk, a vibrant event featuring local artists and their creations. Stroll through the streets, engaging with artists and perhaps purchasing a unique piece to take home. Stop for lunch at a nearby bistro, enjoying the local flavors and atmosphere.
In the evening, attend a live music event at a local venue or pub, where you can experience the rhythm of Elkhart's music scene. After the show, savor dinner at a restaurant that offers a farm-to-table dining experience, showcasing local ingredients. Cap off the night with a nightcap at a cozy bar, sharing stories about your artistic discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week for one person | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transit or local transport pass (monthly) | $30-60 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with easy access to parks and riverfront.
- Strong local arts scene and family-friendly attractions.
- Proximity to nature and easy day trips to lakes and farmland.
- Narrower nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Some areas are more car-dependent outside the city center.
- Weather can be variable; winters are cold and snowy.
Places to Visit in Elkhart
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic riverfront path with bridges, public art, and reflections on calm water—great at sunrise.
Beaux-Arts mansion with ornate exterior and lush grounds perfect for architectural photography.
Colorful murals and street art along Main Street—great for urban photography.
Food in Elkhart
Elkhart Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy, vanilla-inflected dessert and Indiana classic, best found at local bakeries and diners.
Must-Try!
A thick, crispy breaded pork tenderloin served on a bun with toppings; a Midwestern staple in many diners.
A sweet molasses pie with a crumbly topping, often found in regional bakeries and Amish markets.
Stuffed dumplings reflecting Eastern European influences; available in family-owned eateries and at market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market featuring local produce, baked goods, cheeses, and prepared foods in downtown Elkhart.
Pop-up stalls and food trucks around the downtown core offering varied snacks and lunches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful of private property and farming operations; ask before taking photos of people or farms; dress modestly when visiting rural areas; avoid loud behavior near communities.
Politeness goes a long way; greetings are typically casual; waiting in lines; tipping is customary in service industries.
Safety
Tipping in Elkhart
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, leave 15-20% tip for good service; tips are customary for sit-down dining and not required for fast casual; tip jars at casual venues are optional.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments; cash is accepted everywhere; some vendors at markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; spring showers can be frequent; perfect for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Warm to hot days with humidity; expect outdoor concerts and river activities; carry water and sunscreen.
Crisp air and fall foliage; great for photography along the river and campus areas; be prepared for cooler evenings.
Cold and sometimes snowy; indoor museums and cozy cafes are good choices; plan for occasional travel delays due to snow.
Elkhart at Night
Hiking in Elkhart
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle loop trails around a scenic pond; good for easy hikes and birdwatching.
Several county parks offer wooded trails and picnic areas within a short drive.
Scenic rural routes with gentle rolling hills and farmland views.
Airports
How to reach Elkhart by plane.
Closest major airport with domestic flights; about 25 miles west of Elkhart; rental cars and rideshares available.
Larger regional airport with access to several carriers; about 70 miles northeast.
Major international hub about 100-110 miles west; accessible by car or longer-distance rail/bus options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of traditional Midwestern families and newer residents attracted to affordable housing and suburban neighborhoods.
Active senior communities and healthcare access draw retirees to Elkhart.
Nearby colleges in Goshen and Notre Dame region contribute to a younger demographic in certain districts.
Distinct rural communities nearby with traditional practices and local markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite in schools and community leagues; local gymnasiums host games throughout the year.
Local youth and adult leagues play in parks and school complexes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Elkhart.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in downtown eateries; look for veggie sandwiches, salads, and grain bowls; ask for meat-free sauces.