Winona Lake: A Great Summer Trip

What Indiana may lack in beautiful ocean front property, we more than make up for in some of the most beautiful lakes you’ll find (and I’m not just talking about the big one, Lake Michigan). Every Hoosier seems to have their own favorite lakeside locale. I have a few favorites, and one of them is Winona Lake in northern Indiana.

Introduced to me by my husband, whose family is from this area of the state, on my first visit I thought I had been transported to a seaside village. Great little shops, delicious restaurants, and of course, the glimmering lake. It’s a wonderful summer destination regardless of your interests.

If I could plan my ideal day in Winona Lake, I’d spend my morning on the lake by renting a paddleboat from the Winona Lake Parks Department. I’d have a sushi lunch at Cerulean to fuel me up for an afternoon spent exploring the shops at the Village of Winona. I’d end with dinner at the BoatHouse Restaurant before taking a stroll along the lake while the sun set. Sounds pretty ideal, right?

July is a wonderful month at Winona Lake because it hosts the MasterWorks Festival, a monthlong gathering of Christian artists. Performances include ballet, theatre, and classical music of all kinds. There’s also an art walk on the second Friday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m., where you can experience even more of the area’s culture.

If you need more help planning a trip to Winona Lake, contact the Kosciusko County CVB.