No visit to Shipshewana, Indiana is complete without a stay at the Blue Gate Garden Inn, the premier hotel in the heart of the town.
I visited Shipshewana for a travel writing conference, and had never heard of the location before it was announced as the conference destination. I had a few really good recommendations for the Blue Gate Garden Inn and since it was the host hotel for the conference, I decided to book four nights there.
I’m so glad that I did. The hotel is in the perfect location central to all the great shopping and food in Shipshewana, and has absolutely everything you’ll need for a great vacation.
The photos online do not do the property justice. Every detail of the hotel is so well thought out. As you pull up to the main entrance you’ll be dazzled by the manicured flower beds and welcoming vibes.
Upon walking in the front doors, you’ll be greeted by the friendliest staff who will get you situated in your room. The lobby is also incredibly decorated in a farm-theme, complete with chairs and couches where you can chat and relax with your company throughout your stay.
Continue reading to learn more about the property and what to expect during your stay at the Blue Gate Garden Inn.
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About the Blue Gate Garden Inn
The Blue Gate Garden Inn is owned by the Riegsecker Family, a well-known Amish family in the Shipshewana community. The family owns several other businesses in Shipshewana, including Traditions Furniture Store, The Craft Barn, Shipshewana Furniture Co., Blue Gate Bakery, and Blue Gate Theatre.
The Blue Gate Garden Inn property is made up of two parts: the 155-room inn and the Blue Gate Restaurant and Theatre. The theatre is a top-spot in the Midwest, having held over 300 shows with more than 100 different artists.
People come from all over to catch a show at this famous performing arts center and to explore Shipshewana. It’s the perfect excuse to book a stay at the Blue Gate Garden Inn.
Location of the Blue Gate Garden Inn & Suites
The Blue Gate Garden Inn & Suites is located right off the main highway into Shipshewana at 800 S. Van Buren St. Shipshewana is not very large geographically, so the Blue Gate really is right in the heart of town.
Blue Gate Garden Inn & Suites Rooms
There are several room options available during your stay in Amish Country. I stayed in the King & Queen room which provided both a King- and Queen-sized bed, microwave and mini fridge. The room also had a full-sized circular dining room table with two chairs, which was a really nice touch.
You can also book suites and rooms with patios/balconies. And all of the rooms are very spacious, providing plenty of room for your and your family.
I was busy either exploring Shipshewana or attending the conference, so I did not spend a ton of time in the room, but the bed was very comfortable and I had plenty of space for my luggage and all of the knick knacks I accrued at the conference.
The rooms at the Blue Gate Garden Inn are not modern nor are they updated, but they do have a very cozy and homey feel to them. I found the rooms to be much less stuffy than a typical hotel, and the artwork hung throughout the rooms and the hallways were a great touch.
The property does have wifi, although I found it often difficult to access from my room. However, the service was great in the lobby area and there’s plenty of space both inside or out to find a spot to work.
Blue Gate Garden Inn & Suites Amenities
Complimentary Breakfast
A top highlight of Blue Gate Garden Inn from past guests is the free hot breakfast that comes with each booking. You’ll receive breakfast tickets at check-in for each night you booked at the property.
Breakfast is served each morning from 7am until 10am and it can get busy. The offerings includes a very popular omelet-to-order station, along with the traditional continental breakfast items like eggs, meat, and fresh bakery treats. The donuts are so yummy!
The staff working in the dining room are very friendly and attentive, constantly checking to make sure all items are available.
Indoor Pool & Hot Tub
Located on the main level of the property, right off of the lobby is an indoor pool and hot tub.
Fitness Center
Your stay at Blue Gate Garden Inn & Suites includes access to a large workout room with a wide variety of equipment options, weight machines, and dumbbells. Outside, there’s even basketball and pickleball courts.
Courtyard
My favorite spot to hang out was the back courtyard, complete with tables, rocking chairs, and sun recliners. The view from the patio is beautiful farmland and it’s so quiet and peaceful out there. I spent a few hours one afternoon catching up on emails and enjoying the tranquility.
Free Parking
The Blue Gate Garden Inn offers ample free parking in their large lot outside the lobby. Although it can be hard to find a parking spot on a show night, I’ve never had trouble parking otherwise. Along with car parking, there is also a spot for horses and buggies.
Final Thoughts
Literally the only downside to staying here was that I was just finishing 6 weeks on crutches from hip surgery during my visit. I learned the hard way that some rooms are quite far from the elevator, so if you have mobility issues, you’ll want to let the hotel know as soon as possible.
Additional Posts of Interest:
– The Ultimate Travel Guide to Shipshewana, IN
