Explore Elkhart County: Museums, Motorhomes, and More

Welcome to Elkhart County, a vibrant hub where history, culture, and nature come together beautifully. The heart of the action is downtown Elkhart, where you’ll find a lively mix of local shops, great restaurants, museums, and some fantastic outdoor urban art.

Elkhart County is featured in our Explore North Central Indiana podcast episode:

Stroll the Scenic RiverWalk

One of the best ways to soak it all in is along the Elkhart RiverWalk. This scenic trail follows the curve of the Elkhart River, linking the city’s Garden District with its Arts and Entertainment District. Along the way, you’ll discover charming boutiques and inviting eateries perfect for a leisurely pause or a quick snack.

Step Back in Time at the Ruthmere Museum

Elkhart’s story dates back to 1831 when Dr. Havilah Beardsley purchased the land where the St. Joseph and Elkhart Rivers meet. Today, you can step back into history at his 1848 home on the campus of the Ruthmere Museum. The estate itself, built in 1908, is a stunning snapshot of the “Gilded Age” with original furnishings and exquisite architecture. The museum offers tours Tuesday through Sunday and is a must-visit for history buffs.

Take in the Arts at Lerner Theatre

Right in the Arts and Entertainment District stands the beautifully restored Lerner Theatre. Originally a 1920s movie palace, it’s now a thriving 1,700-seat performing arts venue hosting musicals, concerts, films, and workshops. If you’re curious about the building’s stunning design, you can book a tour Monday through Friday to see the elegant interiors.

Fun for Families and Garden Lovers

Looking for something whimsical? Linton’s Enchanted Gardens is a wonderland with over 50,000 square feet of indoor shopping plus 9 acres of garden plots, a petting zoo, a train, swan paddle boats, and more. Admission is free, though some attractions have small fees.

For a more serene garden experience, explore the Wellfield Botanic Gardens. Spread across 36 acres, these gardens feature more than 20 themed areas, including lakes, streams, waterfalls, and quiet spots like a children’s garden and a Japanese “Island Garden.”

Unique Museums: Comics and RVs

Elkhart is home to two truly one-of-a-kind museums. The Hall of Heroes Comic and Superhero Museum houses over 70,000 comic books, original artwork, toys, and props—offering a deep dive into 80 years of superhero history.

And if superheroes aren’t your thing, check out the RV and Motorhome Hall of Fame Museum. Elkhart is known as the RV capital of the U.S., producing over 80% of the nation’s motorhomes. This museum tells the story of road travel from vintage trailers to modern luxury motorhomes—and even offers RV parking for visitors.

See How Motorhomes Are Made

If you’re visiting Monday through Thursday at 3 p.m., you can book a tour of the Thor Motor Coach Factory to watch the step-by-step building of these motorhomes—a fascinating experience for any road trip enthusiast.

Hit the Heritage Trail

For a “road trip within a road trip,” drive the Heritage Trail, a scenic 90-mile route winding through charming towns like Elkhart, Goshen, Middlebury, Nappanee, Bristol, Wakarusa, and Shipshewana. This route highlights Amish heritage and local history, with an optional audio tour available online or at the Elkhart County Visitors Center. Along the way, don’t miss the colorful Quilt Gardens—floral patchworks that decorate several communities.

Historic Charm and Local Treasures

• Visit Coppes Commons in Nappanee, a restored 1876 sawmill and birthplace of the famous “Hoosier Cabinet.” Here, you can tour the Coppes Legacy Museum and shop at Dutch Lady Antiques, an 8,000-square-foot antique mall housed in the historic complex.

• Art lovers will enjoy the Midwest Museum of American Art in Elkhart, home to the largest Norman Rockwell lithograph and Overbeck Art Pottery collections in Indiana.

• Railroad enthusiasts can explore the National New York Central Railroad Museum, showcasing locomotives and artifacts related to Elkhart’s important role in rail freight.

Outdoor and Cultural Gems

• In Bristol, visit the historic Bonneyville Mill, a water-powered mill producing flour and cornmeal for nearly 200 years.

• Nearby, the Fruit Hills Winery and Orchard offers local wines in a rustic tasting room with orchard views.

• Catch a show at the Elkhart Civic Theatre housed in the historic Bristol Opera House.

• History buffs will appreciate the Elkhart County Historical Museum, featuring exhibits and programs about the region’s past.

• Nature lovers can explore wetlands, prairies, and trails at the Elkhart Environmental Center.

• Don’t miss DeFries Gardens in New Paris, especially the stunning Calendar Garden representing the seasons, open year-round and free to visitors.

• For outdoor enthusiasts, the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail offers a 17-mile paved path through Amish farmland and woods—ideal for biking, walking, or jogging.

Small Town Stories and Local Flavors

• In Nappanee, the ELC Heritage Collection museum shares the town’s story, including displays on local culture and history.

• Stop by Miller’s Orchard for homemade Amish apple butter, fresh cider, and seasonal produce.

• Explore Goshen’s rich history at the Goshen Historical Museum and nearby public square with its Neptune Fountain, quilt garden, and the quirky Goshen Police Booth—a tiny historic police station once built to protect against gangsters.

• Foodies will love the South Side Soda Shop, a restored 1940s diner famous for Michiana’s best chili, featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.

• For entertainment, the historic Goshen Theatre hosts a variety of live events, from comedy shows to concerts.

• And for craft beer fans, Goshen Brewing Company offers eco-friendly brews in a solar and wind-powered setting with a farm-to-table menu.

Elkhart County truly offers something for everyone—history, art, nature, and unique experiences all wrapped up in one unforgettable destination. Whether you’re exploring museums, hitting the trails, or just enjoying a craft beer by the river, this region is a must-see on your North Central Indiana adventure.

Explore this unique slice of the Hoosier State and other unique hidden gems across the USA with our Spotify playlist USA Hidden Gems Road Trips!