Free Indiana Driving Tour Celebrates Quilting and Gardening

The summer event highlights the state's rich textile and horticulture traditions.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:15am

A grid of brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen images of a gardening tool, conceptually representing the intersection of quilting and gardening traditions in Indiana.A vibrant celebration of Indiana's rich textile and horticulture heritage through a modern pop art lens.Elkhart Today

A new free driving tour in Elkhart County, Indiana is offering residents and visitors a chance to explore the region's vibrant quilting and gardening scenes. The self-guided tour will take participants to local quilt shops, community gardens, and other textile and horticulture-focused destinations.

Why it matters

Quilting and gardening have long been important parts of Indiana's cultural identity, with deep roots in the state's agricultural and textile manufacturing history. This tour aims to shine a spotlight on these beloved local traditions and encourage more people to engage with them.

The details

The driving tour will feature stops at several quilt shops, community gardens, and other sites that celebrate Indiana's textile and horticulture heritage. Visitors can explore unique quilting techniques, browse locally made products, and learn about the history and significance of these crafts in the region.

  • The driving tour will run throughout the summer of 2026.

The players

Elkhart County

A county in northern Indiana known for its vibrant textile and agricultural industries.

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What’s next

The tour organizers plan to expand the event in future years to include more locations and activities.

The takeaway

This driving tour provides a unique opportunity for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of quilting and gardening that have long been integral to Indiana's identity.