October 4, 2022
Depart early this morning for an exciting trip to see everyone’s favorite entertainer, Daniel O’Donnell and see some really neat quilt gardens and find some very interesting stories about RVing. Plus you will have some shopping time in Shipshewana. We will travel west and south on this journey. Upon arrival in Shipshewana take time to visit the Davis Mercantile and other popular shopping venues. In downtown Shipshewana the streets are filled with shops and stores filled with crafts, apparel, food, quilts, jewelry, handbags, home décor and art. There is something for everyone in each “home” converted into a shop. Wander and explore for your favorite find and “must have” memory to take home. Be sure to check out the interesting carousel on the third floor. Enjoy your lunch before departing for Elkhart, Indiana, the travel trailer capital of the world. Our first stop traces the history of RVing from early 1913 travel-trailers to today’s state-of-the-art motor homes. The 80,000 sq. ft. building showcases a fascinating collection of one-of-a-kind camping cars, house trailers, and house cars including a gem custom built for Hollywood screen siren Mae West. Follow the time trail of vintage RVs arrayed among murals of scenic America. A knowledgeable guide will share RV folklore and the industry’s remarkable stories. Next explore some of the quilt gardens of Elkhart. Linton’s Enchanted Garden Center features “Kaleidoscope Blooms” quilt garden and has shopping inside. Then on to Ruthmere to see the “Friendship Star” quilt garden. After that explore Wellfield Botanic Garden’s Fresh Connections Quilt Garden—There is a viewing platform for better photo ops. We have time for one more garden. The Central Park Quilt Garden, the “Double Tulips Quilt Garden.” Tonight’s included dinner is at Elkhart’s popular, Five Star Dive Bar. When you are hungry and looking for some delicious American food, Five Star Dive Bar is the place to come in Elkhart. Our menu will be limited but it will include their very famous hamburger. A full bar is available on site for individual purchases on your own if desired. Our hotel for tonight is the Hampton Inn in Middlebury, IN (D)
