If you’re planning a trip to one of our campuses, you’ll find plenty of ways to stay busy. Here’s a look at the top sights and activities to add to your itinerary:
Blooms of heritage: Rows of colorful blooms form intricate patterns at our summer quilt gardens, paying homage to the timeless craftsmanship of the communities we call home. You’ll see these patchwork gardens in Amish Country on our Dutch Valley and Walnut Creek campuses, outside of Berlin Farmstead Restaurant, and at Das Dutchmen Essenhaus in Middlebury, Indiana. The one at Essenhaus is the largest in a network of quilt gardens and murals across North Indiana and symbolizes Elkhart County’s “connected past and future.” Get the driving tour map and itinerary at visitelkhartcounty.com.
Capture the moment: With scenic views of the countryside and lush gardens around every turn, our locations are the perfect backdrop for a selfie or family picture. Popular spots for photo ops include Dutch Valley’s floral archway and the overlook area behind Der Dutchman Walnut Creek. Show us your photo by posting it on social media with #DutchValleyArch or #DerDutchman.
Make a splash: If you’re staying with us, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit. Our Sugarcreek and Middlebury inns feature heated, all-season pools. The Carlisle Inn at Sarasota has an outdoor swimming pool and accessible whirlpool. There’s no pool at the Carlisle Inn location in Walnut Creek, but guests are welcome to use the one at Dutch Valley.
Catch a show: Wholesome entertainment takes the stage at Ohio Star Theater. From live concerts and musicals to comedy, this season’s lineup of family-friendly performances will introduce you to unforgettable characters, make you laugh out loud, and take you back to simpler times. Now through November 4th, experience the theater’s first original production – The Road to Damascus: A Musical Journey Through the Book of Acts. See what else is on the schedule and buy tickets at ohiostartheater.com.
Meet Noodles the Rooster: You can’t miss Berlin Farmstead Restaurant’s larger-than-life mascot. The community got to help name the 7-foot-tall, 2,000-pound concrete rooster who has been greeting hungry diners and passersby from the front lawn since 2013.
Enjoy some playtime: Let your little ones burn off some energy at Dutch Valley. The campus features an outdoor playground with swings and a slide. There’s also a covered picnic shelter and a village of tiny playhouses for kids to explore.
Reconnect with Mother Nature: Take a scenic hike or bike ride on the nature trails near our Sarasota, Florida, and Middlebury, Indiana, campuses. Just steps away from Carlisle Inn Sarasota, the Legacy Trail is a paved, multi-use pathway stretching almost 20 miles to the Historic Venice Train Depot. At Essenhaus, bike rentals are available for excursions along the Pumpkinvine Trail that extends 17 miles from Goshen to Shipshewana.
Putting around: Nothing says family fun like a leisurely game of miniature golf. Essenhaus and our Bellville, Ohio, campus, both have 18-hole courses to play on. Cool off afterward with a refreshing treat from the concession stand.
Shop until you drop: Find the perfect present or souvenir to commemorate your trip. Our gift shops offer an eclectic mix of treasures for every taste and occasion, including clothing and accessories, candles, quilts, toys, and seasonal décor.
Spend an evening in hot-rod heaven: Each Thursday from May through September, classic car owners and enthusiasts cruise into our restaurants in Middlebury and Plain City for an evening of fun and fellowship. There’s also a monthly classic cruise-in at the Der Dutchman in Bellville, Ohio. That’s on the second Tuesday of each month from June through September.
Try the latest sports craze: Americans everywhere are embracing the fastest-growing sport in the nation, and you can get in on the fun, too. Part of our Middlebury campus, Picklehaus offers six indoor pickleball courts that you can reserve through a mobile app. The facility also hosts tournaments, skills sessions, and group lessons. Learn more on the Pickle Haus website and Facebook page.