What makes Dunlap sights so special is the way an inconspicuous place between fields and suburbs suddenly breathes history when you look at the old railway tracks along the former Michigan Southern Railroad. I remember the first time in the 1850s when the village was named after the railway pioneer John Dunlap, strolled through the dusty roads and heard the quiet sum of the mills that the rural Indiana was running at that time. Today Dunlap is located in the heart of Concord Township, Elkhart County, and is hardly more than a suburb of South Bend – but the flair remains self-willing.
A short trip by car via US‐33 or a short transfer from the South‐Bend‐International Airport is enough to arrive here; The arrival is almost a ritual that reminds me every time that I don't land in the urban jungle, but in a small but proud community. I don't always understand the hype about the “Suburban Idyll”, but the mix of old barns that now host hip cafes, and the friendly faces of the locals is really great. So, the next time you're looking for a place that gives you the feeling of being part of a story without losing the comfort of modern infrastructure, you shouldn't miss the Dunlap sights – they are the quiet heart of a region that has more to offer than you guess at first sight.
With the map tool, you can plan the ideal location for a photo online in advance – taking into account the sun's path and the surroundings.
Here's how it works:
Advantage:
You can assess light, perspective and location before visiting the site – ideal for photography, sunrises and sunsets.
To find the exact point where the sun disappears behind the skyline, use the azimuth display on poi-travel.de. In Dunlap, the sun travels further northwest below the horizon in summer, while in winter it takes a more southwesterly angle. With the embedded line on the map, you can determine your tripod position down to the metre.
The first place I have to mention is that St. Joseph River Trail, a narrow but surprisingly well maintained path that winds along the river of the same name and can be reached from Dunlap in about ten minutes. I once tried to start my morning jogging round, just to see that the bridge over the old railway line is barely wider on foot than a bicycle – a real test for balance and patience. Parking is usually easy, except on Saturday night, as it becomes a real problem because then the local anglers and families occupy the trail at the same time.
A short trip after Shipshewana takes you to the heart of the Amish community, and this is not just a photo spot for tourists, but a real cultural experience. I ate a lunch in a family farm where the bread smelled after the oven and the staff served me with a smile that said more than any spoken word. The road there is lined with corn fields, and parking at the main square is almost never a theme thanks to the generous parking spaces – unless you are lucky to come at the harvest time, then it becomes a little narrow.
If you have enough rural idyll, take a look at the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend, which is about 30 minutes' drive. I have to admit, I don't quite understand the hype about old automobile icons, but the shiny bodies and the history of the company that once shaped the city have somehow fascinated me. The museum is located directly at the University of Notre Dame campus, so you can easily grab a coffee in one of the student cafés after the visit – parking is a bit tricky there, because the university students always occupy the best places.
Another highlight I can hardly overlook is that Indiana Dunes National Park on the southwest coast of Lake Michigan. Yes, this is a bit further, but the ride over the Interstate 80 is worthwhile if you are looking for the feeling of sand between the toes and the noise of the waves. I remember a rainy afternoon that I hid under one of the big jaws and suddenly a squirrel jumped over the way – a small but unforgettable moment. The parking spaces at the main entrance are usually well signposted, but on hot summer days there can be waiting times, so be there early.
For those who prefer to see something historical and less natural, this is St. Joseph County Historical Museum near Elkhart a must. There is a collection of artifacts ranging from the early history of settlement to industrial flowering. I tried an old typewriter there that still worked – a short look back into the time that reminded me how quickly the world changed. The museum has a small car park right in front of the door, and parking is almost always a Klacks.
A little away from the known paths lies the Kissing Bridge Covered Bridge near LaGrange County. The name sounds romantic, and the image of an old wooden bridge that leads over a plundering brook is actually quite photogenic. I made a picnic with some friends there, and we were amusing that the sound of the creeping wood almost sounded like an old love song. The driveway is over land roads, and parking is practically right next to the bridge – a short stop worth it.
Last but not least, Elkhart Riverwalk not missing, an urban walk that runs along the river and is spit with art installations, cafes and occasional street musicians. I once discovered a local jazz musician playing in the middle of the sunset – a moment that dipped the city into a completely different light. Parking is usually easy on the Riverwalk, especially if you use the small back entrance, which the locals like to call “home door”.
Whether you're looking for nature, history or a touch of Amish charm, the surroundings of Dunlap offer a colourful mix of experiences that go far beyond what one would expect from a small community. And that's exactly what makes Dunlap Attractions to a surprisingly versatile destination – if you are willing to drive a little and marvel at a bit.
This guide invites you to look a little behind the scenes of Dunlap, where I was recently overrun by a swarm duck when trying to find the perfect place for a picnic – no joke, that was a real duck flash mob.
Back in front Dunlap Community Park is the heart for everyone who likes to wander around in the green. The park is not only a huge field with baseball and football pitches, but also houses a 1.5 km long roundabout that is perfect for a quick run or a cozy walk. I packed my running shoes there, just to see that the car park is almost full on the weekend – so better to come early, otherwise you fight through a sea of picnic blankets.
A short walk from the park leads you to Dunlap Library. I must admit, I was skeptical if a small town library really has something to offer, but the modern facility with free Wi-Fi corners and a small outdoor reading corner has convinced me. There I accidentally discovered an old photo album that documents the development of the place since the 1900s – a real treasure for history lovers.
If you are interested in history, you may Dunlap Historical Society Museum do not miss. The museum sits in the former school building dating back to 1915 and shows artefacts ranging from old workshops to the first cars that drove through the dusty streets. I found a handmade wooden chair there that was supposedly built by one of the founders of the city – I don't understand the hype about antique furniture completely, but the part has character.
Once a month the main road turns into a colorful drive when the Dunlap Farmers Market opens its doors. Fresh vegetables, homemade jams and a stand that is supposed to bake the best corn cake in the region, attract locals and visitors alike. Practical note: Parking is usually easy, except on Saturday night, there will be a real problem because people park their tractors next to the cars.
Another highlight is the Dunlap Community Center. I tried the swimming pool there – the water was surprisingly warm for an Indiana summer, and the staff was friendly, though slightly annoyed, because I abused the springboard for a few acrobatic attempts. The center also offers a gym and regular yoga classes if you want to stretch a bit after swimming.
The Dunlap Town Hall is another piece of local identity. The building from the 1920s radiates an almost nostalgic authority, and I happen to have a conversation about the planned expansion of the park there at a public meeting – a good example of how closely everything is interwoven here.
A short walk leads you to St. Mary's Catholic Church, whose Gothic architecture and colorful glass windows offer a calm contrast to the otherwise sober cityscape. I've discovered a small chapel where local choirs regularly rehearse – that's a real ear scare if you happen to come to the test.
Between all these points you can feel the typical flair of Dunlap: a mixture of rural cosiness and a touch of urban demand. So if you're looking for a place that isn't overrun by tourists, but still a few real Dunlap Attractions then you're right here. And if you're wondering if there's something else to discover here – yes, there is, but that's best for you to know if you just throw yourself in the streets and mix up local life a bit.
Villages, towns, districts, places and Vacation destinations you should visit.
©copyright by POI-Travel.de
info@poi-travel.de
