A Safari Experience in Northern Indiana
Hidden in the rolling countryside near Shipshewana, Dutch Creek Animal Farm offers one of the most unexpected attractions in Indiana—a drive-thru safari experience where you can come face-to-face with zebras, bison, camels, and dozens of other exotic and domestic animals. It’s not a zoo. It’s not a petting farm. It’s a full-blown adventure that starts the moment you drive through the gates with a bucket of feed in hand.
Visitors can remain in their vehicle or opt for an open-air wagon ride as they tour the 80-acre property, weaving through pastures and wooded areas where animals roam freely. Whether you’re greeted by a llama peering into your window or a water buffalo casually blocking the road, every turn of the safari promises surprise, laughter, and a whole lot of animal interaction.
Up-Close Animal Encounters
The main attraction is the drive-thru safari route, where visitors can interact with animals from the safety of their vehicle. Many of the animals are used to human presence and will eagerly approach cars for a snack. Feeding buckets filled with approved food are available at the entrance, and tossing out treats—or gently offering them through the window—becomes part of the fun.
Expect to meet zebras, elk, Scottish Highland cattle, ostriches, emus, donkeys, and yaks, among others. Some animals come right up to your vehicle and nudge it gently with their nose, while others graze nearby or pose for the camera. The diversity of species and their comfort with guests create an unforgettable experience that’s part safari, part petting zoo, and part comedy show.
Wagon Rides for a More Immersive Experience
For those who want an even more hands-on adventure, the farm offers tractor-drawn wagon rides with open-air seating. These rides allow for better visibility and easier interaction with animals, making it a favorite option for families and photographers. A guide often accompanies the wagon to share fun facts and help distribute feed more safely.
Wagon rides typically last about 45 minutes and follow a similar route as the self-drive tour. Riders often end up with animals poking their heads into the wagon for a snack or a curious sniff. It’s an up-close experience that children especially enjoy, offering safe but thrilling interactions with creatures big and small.
A Petting Zoo and Walk-Through Area
In addition to the drive-thru experience, Dutch Creek Animal Farm includes a walk-through area with more traditional petting zoo attractions. Here, visitors can meet goats, rabbits, pigs, and miniature horses. This section is ideal for younger children who may be hesitant about the larger animals in the safari but still want to feed and touch gentle farm animals.
Interactive stations let kids brush animals, bottle-feed baby goats (seasonally), and learn more about animal care. Benches and shaded areas make it easy for families to relax while kids explore at their own pace.
Gift Shop, Snacks, and Seasonal Treats
No family attraction is complete without a well-stocked gift shop, and Dutch Creek delivers. After your safari, you can stop in for snacks, ice cream, local goods, and animal-themed souvenirs. The shop offers everything from plush toys and T-shirts to handcrafted items made by local artisans in the Shipshewana area.
During fall, the farm often offers seasonal extras like pumpkin patches and hayrides, adding to the charm and making it a repeat destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re visiting in spring, summer, or early autumn, there’s always something new to enjoy.
Safety and Visitor Guidelines
To ensure a fun and safe experience, Dutch Creek Animal Farm maintains clear guidelines for all guests. Feeding is only allowed with approved food provided by the staff, and windows should remain partially closed when animals approach. Guests are advised not to exit vehicles during the safari, and to move slowly through the route to avoid startling the animals.
Wagon rides include safety railings and trained staff to guide interactions. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to help guests have a positive experience while also protecting the animals’ well-being.
Perfect for Families and Animal Lovers
Whether you’re traveling with young children, teenagers, or grandparents, Dutch Creek offers something for everyone. The novelty of having a camel or zebra stick its head into your window never gets old, and the relaxed country setting makes it easy to spend a few hours or an entire day. It’s especially great for homeschooling families, scout groups, and birthday parties looking for something educational and entertaining.
Unlike traditional zoos where animals are behind barriers, Dutch Creek flips the script and puts guests inside the habitat. The result is a more engaging and unforgettable interaction that sparks curiosity and excitement.
Planning Your Visit
Open seasonally from spring through fall, Dutch Creek Animal Farm typically operates from late April through October, depending on weather. Hours vary by day, and it’s recommended to check their website or call ahead for current schedules and conditions. The safari can get busy on weekends and holidays, so weekday visits often offer a more relaxed pace.
Admission includes access to the safari and petting zoo, with wagon rides available for a small additional fee. Clean restrooms, picnic areas, and plenty of parking make it easy to enjoy the visit without stress.
A Wild Experience in the Heart of Amish Country
Located just outside Shipshewana, Dutch Creek Animal Farm sits in the heart of Indiana’s Amish Country. Visitors often combine a safari adventure with stops at local markets, furniture shops, or the Shipshewana Flea Market, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway.
For those seeking something different from the typical tourist spots, Dutch Creek delivers with charm, adventure, and a touch of the unexpected. It’s wild. It’s fun. And it’s closer than you think.
