With its theatre, restaurants, shops and more, The Barns at Nappanee, 1600 W. Market St., offer guests ample opportunities to experience fun.
“The Barns at Nappanee is an incredible location to make family memories, as we try to make everything we do family friendly,” says Jarrod Humbarger, executive director of The Barns at Nappanee and Round Barn Theatre. “Whether you come for a day to eat at Stutzman Brothers Steakhouse or Ben’s Soft Pretzels, see a musical or concert at the Round Barn Theatre, shop in our stores, take a horse-drawn buggy tour, wagon ride and house tour, or even hold your special event like a wedding, anniversary, rehearsal dinner or corporate event, it really is memories that will last a lifetime and something that will be talked about fondly for a very long time.”
This year, The Round Barn Theatre is showcasing classics like “Hello, Dolly!” and “The Music Man” as well as newer musicals such as “Clue” and “Anastasia.” There’s additionally the world premiere of Christy Stutzman’s latest original musical “Love Comes Softly,” based on the book by Janette Oke.
“That show runs from Aug. 8 to Sept. 21,” Humbarger says. “We even have a ‘Hearties Weekend’ [for Hallmark Channel fans] planned in August to come to The Barns at Nappanee property to enjoy great food, have meet and greets with the cast, see the show, and then travel to see ‘When Calls the Heart’ in Shipshewana.”
The Barns at Nappanee is also known for its artisan markets. The “Summer Artisan Market” is Aug. 2 and 3, featuring local and regional vendors selling their creations. More events are to come later in the year, including a holiday market.
“All of our events bring families and friends to the property to see just see how magical it can be,” Humbarger says. “It’s a beautiful property to come out and walk around on a nice sunny day, and the staff here will make you feel welcome. You can walk away with many items from the artisan markets and our shops, but also just stroll around and enjoy the day.
“Plus, there is so much history here, and I am a huge history buff,” Humbarger adds. “As far as the Round Barn Theatre events – musicals and concerts are some of my favorite things to attend. You really can come in and sit for two- to two-and-a-half hours and just forget about the outside world and enjoy the amazing talent and stories on stage.”
Multiple options are available for Round Barn Theatre tickets. Individual tickets cost $49.95 for adults, $44.95 for seniors ages 60 and older, $23.95 for students ages 13 through college, and $14.95 for children ages 4 to 12. Prices increase when a buffet meal is included to $87.90 for adults, $82.90 for seniors ages 60 and older, $61.90 for students ages 13 through college, and $30.90 for children ages 4 to 12. Discounts are available for group tickets of 15 or more people; interested patrons can call (574) 773-4188 for more information.
The Barns at Nappanee also offers a true farm-to-table experience at its on-site restaurant, Stutzman Brothers Steakhouse, as the Wagyu beef is raised on the Stutzman Farm in northern Indiana. The menu also features steaks, burgers, fish, chicken and lighter options including salads, soups and turkey clubs.
“You also get to eat in our more-than-100-year-old restaurant barn,” Humbarger says. “It really is an incredible atmosphere that makes Stutzman Brothers Steakhouse different from other steakhouses.”
New hours for the steakhouse are Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The restaurant is closed Sunday through Tuesday.
While The Barns at Nappanee is a great destination for family outings or date nights, it’s also known as a great location for important events, including weddings. Whether the wedding takes place inside one of the barns or outside by the pond, the setting is gorgeous for pictures.
“The attention to detail that the event staff has is second to none,” Humbarger adds. “Stacey, who is our events manager, does an amazing job at making not only the bride feel like they have no worries for the day, but also the families. From start to finish, she is the point person to make sure your wedding goes off without any big issues. Plus, The Barns at Nappanee property is a great location that is close to Chicago, South Bend, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis and many Midwest cities, so travel to and from is not a big issue.”
Humbarger is proud to work with his fellow staff at The Barns at Nappanee. He considers the Stutzman family as friends, as well as his bosses.
“The Stutzman family are great people to work for and with,” he says. “I love the fact that they want the Barns to be a place where you can bring your family or come for a date night. I am proud to be part of one of the most unique destinations in the area.”
Entertainment for All In a Unique Setting
