Sunday, June 1, 2008

Fair Oaks Dairy Farm

Fair Oaks Dairy Farm was one of our first trips in Indiana. Located between Crown Point and West Laf/Purdue area, it's just off I65 and easy to find if you live nearby! I think it was about $10 for an adult which was a bit steep, in my opinion, but the kids were free so it probably balanced out. They have a large barn that includes a children's museum type area to learn about milking cows, a play area with a slide and ball pit, a 3D movie theatre, and a big traffic light which lets you know when a cow is about to give birth. Outside they seem to be building a new playground and some little attractions, such as a rock climbing wall that looks like a gigantic milk jug. You can walk down to the birthing barn where several babies are born each day. We witnessed one, although Valerie was pretty grossed out. I think her words were, "Ew, Mom. " Also included is a bus tour which takes you through several barns of cows and also to the milking facility where you get out and watch the cows being milked. Notice I have no pictures of actual cows, they aren't for touching at this farm as to protect them from germs and contamination. We tried some ice cream in the cafe afterwards and had a great day! Here is the site for anyone interested in something else to do in Indiana! : http://www.fofarms.com/




2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ah!!!! Love the pics! Thanks!!! Note to self: toss the brown capri pants. They are SO not working for me, lol!!!

Grandma Deb

joanieji said...

I came across your blog while researching Fair Oaks.

I know you were just trying to have a nice "farm" experience with your kids, but this is not a "real" farm, not real in the sense I think of it.

I live in NW IL and this same group of "investors" is trying to put one these monster cow factories here. By and large most people are against it and there is a legal fight to stop it.

My grand kids visited two weeks ago from OR and my 5 yr. old grandson was keen on seeing a cow milked. He got the experience from a small operation dairyman - a well-loved cow named Sultana was gracious to give up her milky goodness, of which we then took some home. He was absolutely in awe of her and LOVED her milk.

If you ever come to Jo Daviess Co, IL, which is renowned for it's beautiful pristine hills and clear water, give us a call and we'll introduce your kids to a "real" farm experience.