Explore All Nappanee Has to Offer
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Some towns have a certain feel to them. There are several factors that might contribute to this, like a distinct feature – a lake or river, for instance – or a landmark that the whole community is proud of.
Sometimes the town’s vibe is brought about by a common attribute among most of the inhabitants. Take Nappanee, for example, which is known for its motto, “Embrace the Pace”.
Nappanee, which is centered around the intersection of State Route 19 and State Road 6, is a welcoming community and an excellent place to go for a day out, especially for someone in a serious shopping mood. Although there are cute shops scattered all over the Nappanee area, the town’s historic downtown in particular has several places that are well worth the visit.
One of Nappanee’s crowning glories is The Barns at Nappanee. Once known as Amish Acres, it still has the features that people have loved for a generation. Currently open Thursday through Sunday, this establishment still offers excellent theatrical entertainment and a restaurant, LaSalle Farm & Table, that serves delicious home-cooked meals. Discover everything The Barns has to offer at thebarnsatnappanee.com.
Coppes Commons, located on the opposite side of town, is basically an Amish mall. There are several establishments under this roof including an antique shop, a general store, a pretzel shop, a book store, an ice cream parlor and more. Enjoy looking around the Hoosier Cabinet Museum, and if you are looking for a venue for your next special event, consider the Upper Room, which has an elegant, industrial vibe. Visit this one-of-a-kind attraction online at coppescommons.com.
The oldest store in town also happens to be the oldest jewelry store in the state. E. Newcomer & Son opened in 1880, and has been owned by the same family ever since. They specialize in a wide variety of jewelry for all occasions and budgets, and also offer a selection of crystal kitchenware, vases and decor. The friendly staff members are always eager to help, and offer jewelry repair and cleaning. Learn more about them at Facebook.com/E-Newcomer-Son-Jewelers.
Anyone who visits Nappanee is missing out unless they visit some of the local eateries. There are several around town, ranging in flavors from Panthers Pizza to Rise’n Roll Bakery & Deli. There are also ethnic food options like El Cielito Lindo and Nang’s Chinese Restaurant. To satisfy your sweet tooth, consider Veni’s Sweet Shop, a downtown chocolate emporium, or The Pretty Cakery, which makes everything in-house.
While downtown, be sure to check out Nappanee’s boutiques. Aria’s Attic Boutique is a small, hidden gem that offers the latest in modest fashions and seeks to inspire women. View them online at arias-attic-boutique.myshopify.com.
K.E.Y. Boutique also offers beautiful fashions for women. They have a large selection of styles, and offer a loyalty program as well. Check out them out online at shopkeyboutique.com.
Nappanee takes considerable pride in the arts. Every year, the local art council commissions an outdoor art display made by local artists and sponsored by local businesses. This year, the collection is titled “Le Tour de Nappanee”. Unique bicycle-themed creations are scattered throughout downtown, where they will remain through the end of the year. After that, they will be moved to Stauffer Park along with collections from previous years. Those who appreciate creative modern art will certainly enjoy a walk along the Art Path, which runs beside Oakland Avenue.
The town’s park system is well worth the visit. Experience a beautiful, 16,000-square-foot playground for kids, a skate park and a 72-par golf course. There is also a seven-acre protected wetlands area with trails and wildlife-themed sculptures for those who appreciate nature hikes. Discover more about Nappanee’s park system at nappanee.org/government/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks.
There are several other specialty shops around town. One of the best ways to discover them all is by visiting the Chamber of Commerce, which is located in the Nappanee Center. Pick up copies of the “Embrace the Pace” and “Nappanee Area Countryside Shoppes” brochures to make sure you can find all the local businesses, including Amish-owned establishments. Visit the Chamber of Commerce online at nappaneechamber.com.
