Dutch Creek Animal Farm: Experience an Amish Zoo in Shipshewana
Head to Amish Country in Shipshewana, Indiana, located right on the border of Michigan. The Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park is run by the Amish, so be prepared for unique, up close animal encounters and a one-of-a-kind experience. While traveling through Shipshewana it is not uncommon to see horse drawn buggies and bicycles traveling along the roads. This area offers a glimpse of a simpler way of life. For more information check out their website here.
Hours May 1 – Mid October
Mon-Fri 9-4:30pm & Sat 9-4pm
Open Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day. Closed Ascension Day
Address: 6255 N 1000 W Shipshewana, IN 46565
Phone: (260) 768-4416
Tips When Visiting the Dutch Creek Animal Park
Many Amish buisness’ in the area are Cash Only, so be prepared prior to heading out for your day adventure. Dutch Creek does now accept credit cards.
Make sure to pack hats, sunscreen, and water since there is very little shade on the farm.
A covered pavilion with picnic tables is a great spot to enjoy a packed lunch during your visit.
We easily spent 2-3 hours at the farm
What to Expect
Wagon Rides
Once you arrive, make sure to sign up for a time slot for your wagon ride. Our favorite part of the trip was the safari style ride pulled by a team of horses. Once you load onto the wagon, you will be handed a heaping container full of feed. Here is where it gets exciting! As you tour the farm on the wagon, these animals will reach their heads in and eat straight from your hands or bowls. You will have the opportunity to feed Camels, Water Buffalo, Brahmans, Long Horn Cattle, Elk, Zedonkeys and Zebras. Truly a memorable experience for any animal lover.
Wagon Tour Prices
Adults: $14.95
Children (age 3-12): $9.95
Seniors (age 65+): $13.50
You are also able to drive through the animal park in your own vehicle, but I highly recommend taking the safari style wagon ride if you want to feed the animals.
Petting Area and Zoo
While you wait for your safari ride, enjoy the petting area and zoo. Kids will love slipping down the slide into the fenced in petting area, where you can touch turtles and pigs, and hand- feed goats. In the spring/ early summer you can even hold baby bunnies, chicks and ducks. They’re adorable!
Next to the petting farm area, the zoo features a variety of wild animals from deer, ostriches, pigs, monkeys, cockatoos, and parrots. Be amazed at one of the tallest horses is paired next to one of the tiniest ponies during your tour. If your lucky enough, you can run alongside an ostrich or have a parakeet land atop your hand at these fun and unique exhibits. It will surely entertain your whole family. Another activity available is for children to ride around on the miny wheeled train drawn by a horse or take a pony ride for an additional fee.
If you want to see first hand what you will experience, check out our families video reel of our visit to Dutch Creek.
Make sure you plan your next vacation to Dutch Creek Animal Park this summer. Want more ideas of summer adventures, here are 20 Outdoor Activities in Southwest Michigan.
Nearby Attractions
Amish Frozen Custard and Ice Cream Spot During our visit, we made a quick stop at the Amish Frozen Custard and Ice cream spot, which is only 4 minutes down the road. Cool off and indulge your sweet tooth at the end of your families fun adventure with delicious ice cream. *Cash Only
Blue Gate Restaurant and Bakery Want to experience some wholesome Amish food, head to Blue Gate Restaurant and Bakery. Located next to the Amish marketplace, this family-owned country restaurant is famous for their impressive buffet. Wholesome food that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters, you’ll enjoy chicken, pot roast, noodles, homemade bread and delicious bakery items.
Shipshewana Trading Place is known for their large flea markets, auctions, and antiques. If you love a great bargain this is the place to come find your next treasure. With over 700 vendors, Shipshewana flea markets are some of the biggest in the Midwest. Markets are open May- Sept.
Follow Discovering Anew for more Michigan day trips and children’s activities. Don’t lose this post, save and pin for later. Looking for more fun activity ideas for this summer, you may enjoy these featured posts.
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Lauded as one of Michigan's most beautiful areas. Here is our family guide for the top things to do while visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with kids. During your next family trip explore numerous outdoor activities as you swim at the beach, race down a sand dune, cruise through Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, catch a sunset at Lake Michigan, ride on the Heritage Bike Trail or hike the trails to Empire Bluff. Your children will treasure the summer memories made together. Here's our the best tips on where to stay and play at Sleeping Bear Dunes from a Michigander.