In her role as destination sales manager for Amish Country of Northern Indiana—Elkhart County, Indiana, CVB, Jessica Risner works directly with tour operators, planners, and group leaders to help them craft seamless, memorable experiences in Northern Indiana Amish Country. By connecting partners, attractions, and the hospitality community, she helps ensure every group receives exceptional service, customized itineraries, and the warm welcome that their destination is known for. Risner recently shared more with Group Tour about her destination and how it’s so desirable for travelers.
Q. How would you describe Elkhart County to someone who has never visited before?
A. Elkhart County, Indiana, is where authentic Amish culture meets vibrant communities and world-class experiences. Visitors discover a spirited mix of handcrafted artistry, flavorful food, scenic drives, charming shops, and hands-on experiences. It’s a destination filled with personality—quiet countryside moments balanced with lively towns, colorful Quilt Gardens, and attractions you simply can’t find anywhere else.
Q. What makes Elkhart County a great place for group tours?
A. Groups love Elkhart County because it delivers variety, convenience, and true hospitality. Everything is easy to navigate, and our partners truly understand group needs. From tours with Amish artisans to RV factory experiences, and craft breweries to hearty Amish meals, itineraries build themselves with engaging, crowd-pleasing stops.
Q. How do you help tour operators plan their group tours?
A. We make planning simple. I provide custom itinerary building assistance, sample themed tours, group-friendly restaurant and lodging recommendations, and direct connections to our top partners. Whether it’s a first-time visit or a returning group looking for something fresh, we here at the Elkhart County CVB streamline logistics so operators can focus on delivering great experiences.
Q. Are there any areas, themes, or activities you would like to promote to group tours?
A. Absolutely! Our artisan experiences, culinary adventures, Quilt Gardens, downtown arts scenes, and hands-on workshops continue to be major hits. Group leaders can explore these themes on our website, through our area guide, or by working directly with me to shape customized, themed itineraries like “Made in Amish Country,” “Heritage & Handcraft,” or “Taste of Elkhart County.”
Q. What’s your long-term outlook for group tours to Elkhart County?
A. The group market in Elkhart County is strong and growing. With increasing interest in authentic, meaningful experiences, our destination is positioned perfectly to deliver. We expect continued growth as we expand hands-on opportunities, add new partners, and further enhance the visitor experience.
Q. Is there anything new or upcoming in Elkhart County that group tour planners should know about?
A. We’re excited about ongoing enhancements at many of our key attractions, expanded seasonal programming, and new group-friendly experiences launching very soon. Plus, our region is preparing for major future initiatives (including public art installations and community development projects) that will give groups even more reasons to return.
Q. Is there anything else our audience of tour operators should know about Elkhart County?
A. We’re a destination that genuinely values group travel, and it shows in the way our partners welcome every group. Whether your travelers want immersive culture, memorable meals, shopping, creative workshops, or simply a relaxing step into a different pace of life, Elkhart County, Indiana, delivers it with warmth, ease, and authenticity. We’re here to help make every visit exceptional.
Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau
574-262-8161
amishcountrytours.com
Lead Image:
Quilt Gardens
Photo courtesy of Elkhart County CVB
