A Dairy Delight in Northwest Indiana
Located at the heart of Fair Oaks Farms in northern Indiana, Cowfé is more than just an ice cream shop — it’s a full farm-themed experience designed to delight kids and adults alike. From the moment you approach the building, the charm is unmistakable: giant cow statues greet guests at the entrance, tractor-shaped seating decorates the outdoor patio, and the smell of fresh waffle cones wafts through the air.
Situated just off I-65 between Indianapolis and Chicago, Fair Oaks Farms is one of the Midwest’s most popular agri-tourism destinations. While the entire complex features interactive exhibits, animal barns, and farm-to-table restaurants, Cowfé has carved out its own following as a sweet stop that brings playful design and creamy treats together in one memorable location.
Farm-Fresh Ice Cream with Local Flavor
Cowfé serves up a rotating selection of homemade ice cream flavors, many of which are made using milk sourced right from the farm. Favorites include traditional options like vanilla bean and chocolate fudge, as well as unique choices such as blueberry cheesecake, maple bacon, and birthday cake swirl. The freshness is noticeable — smooth, dense, and rich in flavor.
In addition to scoops and sundaes, Cowfé offers milkshakes, floats, and coffee drinks made with locally roasted beans. Seasonal menu items like peppermint shakes in winter or strawberry shortcake sundaes in summer keep the experience fun and fresh year-round. Visitors can also find soft-serve options, dairy-based smoothies, and kid-sized cones that make it easy for little ones to enjoy.
Whimsical Seating and Decor
One of Cowfé’s most charming features is its over-the-top farm-themed decor. Giant fiberglass cows posed in playful positions surround the building, offering fun photo ops for families. Inside, the theme continues with rustic wood accents, milk can lighting fixtures, and colorful farm murals lining the walls.
Outside, tables shaped like tractor tires and benches styled like hay bales make the seating area feel like a playground. Kids love climbing onto the stationary tractor seats while enjoying their cones, and parents appreciate the ample space to spread out and relax. The result is a setting that’s fun, quirky, and unmistakably tied to Indiana’s agricultural roots.
Part of a Bigger Experience
While Cowfé stands on its own as a great ice cream stop, it’s also seamlessly integrated into the larger Fair Oaks Farms attraction. Many visitors stop by Cowfé after touring the Dairy Adventure, where guests can watch cows being milked by robots, or after exploring the Pig and Crop Adventures. It’s a perfect way to end a family day on the farm — with a sweet treat that connects directly to the experience.
Because of its location, Cowfé attracts everyone from road trippers and school groups to travelers looking for a break between big cities. Its reputation for quality, combined with its one-of-a-kind atmosphere, has made it a must-stop spot along the I-65 corridor.
Something for Everyone
Whether you’re a kid chasing sprinkles or an adult after the perfect espresso float, Cowfé has something for every palate. Vegan and dairy-free options are occasionally available, and the staff is known for being accommodating to dietary needs. Parents can grab a latte while kids choose between sprinkles or hot fudge, and everyone leaves satisfied.
The shop also sells a selection of packaged goods, including cheeses made onsite, bottled farm milk, and Cowfé merchandise like T-shirts, mugs, and plush cows. These souvenirs give visitors a tangible (and often edible) way to remember their visit long after the last bite of ice cream is gone.
When to Visit
Cowfé is open year-round, with extended hours during peak tourist seasons in spring and summer. Weekends tend to be the busiest, especially when the weather is warm or when events are taking place at Fair Oaks Farms. Early afternoons on weekdays are typically less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience with shorter lines and easier seating.
Plenty of parking is available, and the surrounding grounds are stroller-friendly and accessible for all visitors. During the holidays, the shop often participates in themed events, decorating the interior and offering limited-edition flavors that match the season. It’s not uncommon to find peppermint bark shakes in December or pumpkin pie cones in October.
A Destination-Worthy Dessert Stop
While Indiana has no shortage of ice cream shops, Cowfé stands apart for its immersive theme, farm-to-cone freshness, and overall fun factor. It’s more than just dessert — it’s an experience that wraps storytelling, agriculture, and sugar into one entertaining stop. Even those who don’t tour the rest of Fair Oaks Farms often find that Cowfé alone is worth the visit.
And for families, it’s a place where everyone can slow down, laugh, and enjoy something together. There’s something unmistakably joyful about eating ice cream under the gaze of a 10-foot cow statue — especially when it’s part of a day that’s educational, interactive, and just plain fun.
How to Get There
Fair Oaks Farms — and Cowfé — are located just off I-65 at Exit 220, about halfway between Indianapolis and Chicago. Signage makes it easy to find, and the destination is well-suited for both quick stops and longer visits. Many travelers make it a part of their regular drive or plan side trips specifically to revisit their favorite flavors.
If you’re looking for a whimsical, photo-worthy spot with top-notch ice cream and plenty of character, Cowfé delivers. It’s a little slice of Indiana farm life with a lot of flavor — and giant cows to welcome you in.
