Charming Midwest Getaway to Winona Lake, Indiana

This charming Midwest town probably isn't on your bucket list...but it should be! We recently visited the town of Winona Lake, Indiana located in Kosciusko County and instantly fell in love with this dreamy lakeside community. With nine miles of trails, peaceful waterfront views, spacious parks, a beach and splash pad, several delicious restaurants and a walkable shopping village, this town makes the perfect summer road trip. 

Disclaimer: Our trip was planned in partnership with Visit Kosciusko County. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

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Where to Stay

During our trip we stayed at the Guest House on Terrace which offers three modern and spacious suites just steps away from the center of town. Onsite parking is available for guests (one vehicle per reservation) which was so convenient to be able to park and walk everywhere. We stayed in Suite C which is located on the lower level and offered two queen beds as well as a pull out sofa and can sleep up to 6 guests. The studio also has a full kitchen and bath. The design was modern with a charming, coastal feel. You can also enjoy beautiful views of Spring Fountain Park from the private patio. 

Where to Adventure

Trailhouse Village Bicycles - With nine miles of trails, renting bikes is the perfect way to explore this scenic town. Trailhouse offers bicycles, accessories, and riding apparel. You can either pedal along the paved bike paths throughout town or cross over to the peaceful and scenic Heritage Trail which runs along the river and through the woods with both paved and dirt trails. 

Pottery Bayou - Get crafty and paint your own pottery at this quaint studio located within the Village at Winona. Choose from a variety of animal figurines, vases or dish ware and they provide all the supplies you need to create your personalized piece. They also offer fused glass jewelry making. 

Village at Winona - Wander through a collection of Victorian homes that have been renovated into a unique retail space offering everything from clothes and jewelry, to culinary items and candy you are sure to something for everyone. The shops are centralized and easy to walk from one to the next in a two block radius. 

Winona Lake Limitless Park - Soak up the sun in the designated swimming area at the beach, cool off in the splash pad, swing and slide at the playground or enjoy water sport rentals including canoes, kayaks, paddle boats and paddle boards. Free parking and restrooms are available on site. Splash pad is open at 11a daily. 

Public Art Trail Passport - Check off stops on the digital passport including murals and sculptures. It’s free to sign up and if you check in at at least five public art locations, you will win a free pair of sunglasses. Don't miss Payton's Wings and Beachy the Bison which are both located at Winona Lake Limitless Park.

Catch a sunset - The perfect way to end a busy day is by watching a stunning sunset over Winona Lake. 

Where to Eat/drink

 The River Coffeehouse - Start your morning with a delicious seasonal latte with coffee roasted locally in nearby Warsaw, IN. If you're in search of a midday pick-me-up they also offer a selection of teas and refreshing juices. The build your own breakfast sandwiches are so delicious and you can choose your bread, meat, veggies and sauce (try the house sauce..trust me!). 

Social Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop - Sprinkle kindness at this sweet shop serving up homemade waffle cones and over 20 flavors of premium hand dipped ice cream. Be sure to try the ice cream flight if you can't decide on your favorite. They also offer gourmet salads and sandwiches. You can enjoy your meal on the wrap around porch or seating in lawn while you listen to live music. 

Boathouse Restaurant - Enjoy dinner with a view at this premier restaurant featuring award-winning food in an upscale casual setting. Their  extensive menu features steaks, seafood, ribs, pasta and gourmet sandwiches. 

Port Winona Wine & Market - This wine & beer shop offers a large selection of speciality beverages as well as a marketplace for meats, cheeses and grocery items. Their patio is so dreamy and the perfect spot to sip your drink while you listen to live music.

Cerulean - This Mediterranean-Asian fusion restaurant specializes in pasta, tapas, sushi, and bento boxes. You can dine indoors or on the garden patio with great views of the river. 

Looking for more ideas to help you plan your trip in Winona Lake and beyond? Click here for your full guide to Kosciusko County, Indiana.