
Shipshewana Antique Auction
Experience the thrill of multiple auctioneers selling simultaneously amidst a vast array of antiques and collectibles.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Year-round auctions start early.

Shipshewana Antique Auction
Best Time
Year-round auctions start early.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of multiple auctioneers selling simultaneously amidst a vast array of antiques and collectibles.
"It never disappoints. You just never know what you will find and if you're not going it's your own fault. "

🎯 Register Early as a Seller
Sellers should register early to ensure fair pricing; latecomers may see items sold for very little.
👂 Listen to Multiple Auctioneers
Get ready for the fast-paced environment with 6-9 auctioneers selling at once!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Multi-Auctioneer Frenzy
Auction Barn
Experience the thrill of 6-9 auctioneers selling simultaneously, creating a unique and energetic atmosphere.
Treasure Hunting Galore
Auction Floor
Discover a vast array of antiques, collectibles, and unique finds from estate sales and private collections.
Horse & Draft Horse Auctions
Livestock Area
Witness impressive six-horse hitch competitions and auctions for draft horses and other livestock.
Card Show Deals
Designated Areas
Browse and buy sports cards and collectibles at dedicated card show events held periodically.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for the Best Deals
Understand the Auction Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Register Early as a Seller
Sellers should register early to ensure fair pricing; latecomers may see items sold for very little.
👂 Listen to Multiple Auctioneers
Get ready for the fast-paced environment with 6-9 auctioneers selling at once!
💰 Be Prepared to Bid
Have your bidding strategy ready for a wide variety of antiques and collectibles.
🍽️ Enjoy Local Food
Sample delicious food options available at the auction and surrounding areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Register Early as a Seller
Sellers should register early to ensure fair pricing; latecomers may see items sold for very little.
👂 Listen to Multiple Auctioneers
Get ready for the fast-paced environment with 6-9 auctioneers selling at once!
💰 Be Prepared to Bid
Have your bidding strategy ready for a wide variety of antiques and collectibles.
🍽️ Enjoy Local Food
Sample delicious food options available at the auction and surrounding areas.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and special events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Shipshewana Antique Auction for its incredible variety of items and the unique, fast-paced atmosphere created by multiple auctioneers. Many find it a prime spot for 'picking' and discovering treasures. However, some sellers express frustration with low prices for their items if not registered early, and a few note a lack of customer service from some staff.
"I dropped off a butcher bull. It was my first time doing this, and I was extremely impressed with how fast the guys got on my trailer and unloaded him, all on their own. I was instructed to go up to the counter and give my info. I handed my driver license to the lady. She wrote down my name and address, gave me a receipt, and that was it. The entire transaction from the time I stopped the truck to the time I got back in my truck took all of 5 minutes. My check arrived in the mail 7 days later. I gave 4 stars instead of 5 because the lady at the counter must have been having a bad day, because she never spoke a word or smiled or showed any sign of customer service."
Lakeland Mom
"Terrible experience.
I was almost the last seller of the day.
Almost everyone had left.
Got pennies on the dollar for what my stuff sold for.
I advise anyone, do not go this route if you want to get any fair value of your stuff"
CarterTron ll
"I was excited my first auction as a seller they were helpful setting up . But make sure you register early becuse they have a clock they go by and if your towards the last they will be giving your stuff away. They took my best stuff and put a 5 dollar buyers choice on it over 1000 dollars of Makita impacts with battery gave away for 5 dollars a peice . A whole table of tools for 20 dollars just becuse they didnt want to be there past one oclockk iwoldnt go back if they paid me."
Gary Lewis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Shipshewana Antique Auction is located at 345 S Van Buren St., Shipshewana, IN. It's accessible by car, and parking is available on-site, though it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times and special events.
Yes, Shipshewana is a popular destination for day trips, especially from nearby cities in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan. Plan your route in advance as it's located in Amish country.
Major highways like I-80/90 and US-20 are common routes. From there, local roads lead into Shipshewana. GPS is recommended as it's in a rural area.
Public transportation options directly to Shipshewana are limited. Most visitors arrive by personal vehicle or tour bus.
Parking is available, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially on Wednesdays and during special events, as lots can fill up.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no tickets are required to attend the Shipshewana Antique Auction as a buyer. Entry is typically free. However, for specific events like the Black Friday sale, it's always good to check their official schedule.
The Shipshewana Antique & Misc. Auction typically starts at 9 AM EST every Wednesday, year-round. Special events may have different hours.
While the auction itself is generally free to attend, the Shipshewana Flea Market, which often runs concurrently, may have a small admission fee or parking fee.
Yes, you can sell items. It's highly recommended to register early as a seller to ensure your items are handled properly and not sold at a loss due to time constraints.
A wide variety of items are sold, including antiques, collectibles, furniture, tools, toys, estate items, and sometimes livestock like horses.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Expect a lively atmosphere with multiple auctioneers selling simultaneously. You'll find a vast array of items, from furniture to collectibles. It's a great place for 'picking' and finding unique treasures.
There are typically 6 to 9 auctioneers selling simultaneously, creating a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Arrive early, be prepared to bid quickly, and know your limits. Inspect items carefully before bidding.
Yes, Shipshewana is known for its Amish culture, the large Flea Market, and various shops and restaurants, offering a full day of activities.
Yes, families can enjoy the unique atmosphere, the variety of items, and the food. The horse auctions can also be a draw for children.
🍽️ knife_fork_plate Food & Dining
Food vendors are usually on-site, offering a variety of options. Many visitors also enjoy the local Amish restaurants in Shipshewana for a hearty meal.
The Blue Gate Restaurant is a popular choice for Amish-style buffet dining. Many other local eateries offer homestyle cooking.
While many options are hearty and traditional, you can often find fresh produce and simpler fare among the vendors and in local markets.
Prices are generally reasonable, especially considering the quality and portion sizes, particularly at the Amish restaurants.
Expect traditional Amish and Mennonite cuisine, including comfort foods, baked goods, and fresh produce.
📸 camera_with_flash Photography
Capture the energy of the multi-auctioneer setup, unique antique finds, and the impressive draft horses. The surrounding Amish country also offers scenic photo ops.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of other attendees and vendors, and avoid intrusive photography.
Mornings can offer good light, and the initial setup of items can be visually interesting. The horse auctions also provide dynamic photo moments.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the auction floor and details of items. A camera with good low-light performance can be beneficial.
You can photograph the auctioneers, but it's polite to do so discreetly without disrupting the auction flow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider focusing on specific areas of interest, like the toy auctions or the livestock. The food options are generally family-friendly, with many vendors offering classic fair food and local restaurants serving hearty meals. It's also a great opportunity to introduce kids to the unique culture of Amish country, with buggies and traditional crafts visible throughout the town. Remember to keep an eye on the fast-paced auction environment and ensure children are supervised.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the auction, exploring the flea market can also yield budget-friendly treasures. Vendors often have a wide range of prices, and there's always room for negotiation. For dining, opt for the food vendors on-site or seek out local diners rather than upscale restaurants. The town itself is free to explore, and simply soaking in the Amish culture and scenery is an experience in itself. Remember to factor in travel costs and potential parking fees, but the potential for finding unique items at low prices makes it a worthwhile destination for budget-conscious explorers.
💍 Couples & Antique Enthusiasts
Beyond the auction, the charming town of Shipshewana provides a picturesque backdrop for a couple's getaway. Enjoy strolling through the shops, sharing a meal at a cozy Amish restaurant, or taking a scenic drive through the countryside. The Shipshewana Flea Market is also a great place for couples to explore hand-in-hand, discovering handcrafted items and local goods. It’s a destination that blends the excitement of treasure hunting with the charm of rural Indiana, perfect for couples looking for a unique and memorable experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the Deal: Buying at Auction
Many visitors find immense satisfaction in discovering unique items that tell a story. From architectural salvage and vintage tools to antique toys and primitive decor, the variety is astounding. Some Redditors share stories of finding incredible deals, while others caution that prices can sometimes climb for highly sought-after items. The key is patience, observation, and a bit of luck.
For those new to auctions, watching a few rounds before actively bidding can be helpful. Understanding the auctioneer's chant and the bidding increments is part of the learning curve. Remember, all sales are typically final, so thorough inspection before bidding is paramount. The thrill of snagging a great deal at the Shipshewana Antique Auction is a significant draw for many repeat visitors.
Selling Your Treasures: A Seller's Perspective
Sellers should be prepared for the possibility of items selling for less than expected, especially if they are not particularly rare or in high demand. One reviewer mentioned their best items being sold for a fraction of their value simply because the auction was nearing its end. However, for those with genuine antiques or collectibles, the auction can provide a platform to reach a wide audience of interested buyers. The process involves dropping off items, registering, and then waiting for them to be sold, with payment typically arriving by mail within a week.
Despite the potential for low returns if not managed correctly, many sellers express satisfaction with the efficiency of the process and the helpfulness of the staff in unloading and setting up. The key takeaway for sellers is to prioritize early arrival and registration to maximize the chances of a fair sale and a positive experience.
Beyond the Auction: Exploring Shipshewana
For those interested in the unique lifestyle, visiting Shipshewana provides a glimpse into a simpler way of life. You might see horse-drawn buggies on the roads and encounter Amish artisans at work. The area also hosts other events throughout the year, including special horse auctions and card shows, adding to its appeal as a destination.
Many visitors combine their trip to the auction with exploring the surrounding Amish country, enjoying scenic drives, and experiencing the local culture. It’s a destination that offers a blend of bustling commerce and traditional charm, making it a unique stop for travelers.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit