South Union Shaker Village
A living-history museum preserving the unique culture, inventions, and lifestyle of the Shakers through original buildings and exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
South Union Shaker Village
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A living-history museum preserving the unique culture, inventions, and lifestyle of the Shakers through original buildings and exhibits.
"An amazing location with a great collection of information; allow 2-3 hours to see it all!"
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need more time than you think to explore all the fascinating history and preserved rooms.
🥵 Beat the Summer Heat
Buildings aren't air-conditioned; upper floors get sweltering. Visit early or late in summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shaker Museum
Explore the history and inventions of the Shakers in this well-preserved museum. Learn about their unique faith and organized lifestyle.
Restored Buildings
Throughout the village
Step back in time as you explore rooms showcasing how Shakers lived and worked. Discover ingenious inventions and architectural details.
Gift Shop Finds
Browse a unique selection of items, including local crafts and Shakertown Bourbon. A great place to find a memento of your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Allocate Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need more time than you think to explore all the fascinating history and preserved rooms.
🥵 Beat the Summer Heat
Buildings aren't air-conditioned; upper floors get sweltering. Visit early or late in summer.
📚 Self-Guided Exploration
Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace with informative displays.
🥃 Shakertown Bourbon Tasting
Don't miss the chance to sample Shakertown Bourbon from General George Distillery.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need more time than you think to explore all the fascinating history and preserved rooms.
🥵 Beat the Summer Heat
Buildings aren't air-conditioned; upper floors get sweltering. Visit early or late in summer.
📚 Self-Guided Exploration
Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace with informative displays.
🥃 Shakertown Bourbon Tasting
Don't miss the chance to sample Shakertown Bourbon from General George Distillery.
🛍️ Unique Gift Shop
Discover interesting items, including local crafts and souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise South Union Shaker Village for its rich historical content and well-preserved buildings, offering a fascinating look into Shaker culture and ingenuity. Many recommend allocating ample time to fully explore the site, though some note the lack of air conditioning in summer can be a drawback. Overall, it's considered an unexpected and rewarding discovery for history enthusiasts and families alike.
"I was told this was a small space without much to do and I could complete it in an hour and a half. I was told wrong. This is an amazing location with a great collection of information. I had love to have had 2 and 1/2 to 3 hours here. There's a lot of fascinating information and they're bringing more back as they restore a couple of other buildings. I will definitely be coming back."
James Wright
"This was an unexpected find on my journey from the Ark to Cave City. Wonderful presentation of history and the Shaker culture. Lots on room scenes showing how they lived and worked. Thank you for it being at self guided so we can take it all in. Couple of interesting finds. The hooks on the wall for holding almost everything and the vents for the lamps on the walls. Gotta be a story there somewhere."
Tony Kelley
"I knew nothing about Shakers before visiting the South Union Shaker Village - I was amazed to learn their history, how the village was organized, and the large number of direct inventions created by the Shakers! This is a wonderful site to bring kids to learn about the by-gone days of the 1800s and the unique faith of the Shakers!"
Curtis Coleman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
South Union Shaker Village is approximately 30 minutes from Fort Wayne, Indiana. The village is located at 708 S Union St., Auburn, IN, 46706.
Yes, South Union Shaker Village is a notable attraction near Bowling Green, Kentucky, often recommended for visitors in the area.
The village is situated at 708 S Union St., Auburn, IN, 46706. It's a convenient stop for those traveling between major cities in the region.
Absolutely! It's a perfect day trip destination, especially if you're exploring attractions in Kentucky or Indiana.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach South Union Shaker Village, offering flexibility to explore the surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours are typically offered from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Fridays. 
Admission is often free for tours, as noted for July 4th.
For regular visits, booking in advance is usually not required, especially for self-guided tours. However, for special events like holiday markets, it's advisable to check if advance tickets are recommended or required.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but keep an eye out for special event pricing or group rates.
Many visitors find the self-guided tour format ideal, allowing them to absorb the history and details at their own pace.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Shaker Museum, tour well-preserved buildings showcasing Shaker life, discover their inventions, and browse the gift shop. Special events like holiday markets and bourbon tastings are also highlights.
Most visitors recommend allocating 2 to 3 hours to fully appreciate the village and its exhibits. +1 Some even wish they had more time.
Yes, it's a wonderful place for kids to learn about history and the unique Shaker faith in an engaging way.
No, the historic buildings are not air-conditioned, which can make them very hot during summer months.
The Shakers were known for numerous direct inventions, though specific details are best discovered during your visit to the museum.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the village itself may not have a full-service restaurant, there is a gift shop that might offer small snacks or drinks. It's best to plan for meals before or after your visit.
Picnic areas are not explicitly mentioned, but it's generally a good idea to check with the village staff if you plan to bring your own food for an outdoor meal.
Shakertown Bourbon is a product offered at the village, often available for tasting or purchase, produced by General George Distillery.
Auburn, Indiana, and nearby Bowling Green, Kentucky, offer various dining options ranging from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
The region offers classic American cuisine, Southern comfort food, and local specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions inside the museum or individual buildings.
The well-preserved historic buildings, the village grounds, and any unique architectural details offer excellent photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety. It's best to inquire directly with the village management.
Look for the unique hooks on walls designed for holding various items and the lamp vents, which have interesting stories behind them.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful, soft lighting for capturing the historic architecture and serene atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for the Shakers' clever inventions and notice the differences in how people lived centuries ago. While the buildings can get warm in summer, visiting during cooler times or focusing on the outdoor grounds can still make for an enjoyable experience. The self-guided nature allows families to move at their own pace, catering to shorter attention spans.
📚 History Buffs & Enthusiasts
Take your time to read the detailed information provided in the self-guided tour.
🛍️ Shoppers & Collectors
Keep an eye out for special events like the Holiday Market, which can be a prime opportunity to discover vintage treasures, antiques, and handcrafted goods from various vendors.
It's a great place to find a distinctive souvenir or a unique gift. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shaker Way of Life
+1The Shakers were also renowned for their craftsmanship and innovation. Many of their inventions and designs were ahead of their time, focusing on efficiency and practicality. The museum within the village highlights these contributions, offering a fascinating look at their ingenuity.
Preservation efforts are ongoing at South Union, with continuous work on restoring and maintaining the historic structures.
This dedication ensures that future generations can learn from and appreciate the Shakers' legacy. The village serves as a living testament to their enduring principles and their impact on American history. Exploring the Historic Buildings
Key buildings often include the museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits detailing Shaker history and inventions, and various dwelling and workshop spaces. These rooms are often furnished to reflect how they were used, providing a vivid portrayal of Shaker domestic life and labor. Pay attention to the unique architectural features and the practical design elements that characterized Shaker construction.
It's important to note that these historic buildings are not air-conditioned, and upper floors can become quite warm during the summer months.
Special Events and Experiences
Beyond the visual and historical aspects, the village also offers unique tasting experiences. Visitors have the opportunity to sample Shakertown Bourbon, a local product that connects to the region's heritage.
Checking the village's event calendar before your visit is highly recommended to make the most of your trip.
Whether you're interested in history, local crafts, or unique culinary experiences, there's often something special happening at South Union. 
Social
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