Pick Buckets of Fresh Berries at This Charming Indiana Farm

Ever visited a quaint, quiet U-pick berry farm in Indiana? If you haven't, now's your chance. The Hoosier State is teeming with plenty of farms across the state that offer berry picking, flower picking, and other family-friendly activities. These farms are perfect for an afternoon activity in the summertime, or as a spot on a road trip across the state.

One of our favorites is Driving Wind Farm & Cafe in Indianapolis. Not only is it an incredible place to pick your own strawberries in the summertime, but the property also hosts holiday events, field trips, and even boasts a delicious cafe open daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. When you visit this U-pick fruit farm in Indiana, you'll be transported to a land of pure peace... and tastiness. Here's what to know before you go.

What to Expect at Driving Wind Berry Farm

Driving Wind Farm & Cafe is a family-run urban farm in the heart of Indianapolis. The farm opened to the public in 2011 and now grows all sorts of produce, including strawberries, blackberries, apples, and pumpkins in the fall. Visit to pick some delicious fruit, or choose from rows of local flowers and plants grown on the property.

Upon arriving for U-pick, you'll be given buckets to take out into the fields. Berries are $9.99 per quart container, or $12.99 per quart for prepicked options. Sift through lush strawberry bushes, grown both in-ground and hydroponically, to find the reddest, juiciest ones.

After a few hours picking, head back inside for a delicious home-cooked lunch or dessert at the cafe. Then, spend some time perusing the farm's country store for local goods, home decor, and children's toys. It's the perfect place to bring family and friends to spend a summer afternoon. You'll be delighted by the vibrant rows of flowers and the sweet scent of berries wafting from the fields.

Another unique quality: Driving Farm hosts all sorts of fun events throughout the year. From tea parties to fall festivals and pop-up markets in the spring, it's a great attraction for an Indiana day trip.

When to Visit for the Best Berry Picking

The best time to visit Driving Wind for berry picking is the summertime. Early June is peak strawberry season, while blackberries and blueberries are abundant in late June and early July. You might be able to find some late-blooming strawberries all the way until October, but this is typically after peak season has winded down.

Visiting in the morning gives you the greatest picking opportunity. Staff can offer tips on choosing the ripest fruits, so you're left with a juicy bounty of berries to take home. The farm is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., but call ahead to double-check the picking conditions and weather.

Crowds will be a little heavier during peak season, but there's plenty of space on the farm to spread out.

More Than Just Berries: Activities and Attractions

There's so much more to this family-friendly berry farm than U-pick. You can buy flowers from the nursery, including mums and pansies, and pick up seasonal goods like jams and jellies from the country store. You can also book a wagon ride tour, which takes you throughout the entire property.

Kids will love the opportunity to visit and feed the animals on the farm, including chickens, donkeys, and horses. Schools can even visit for field trips or Future Farmers of America meetups. It's a great place to learn about fruit production and agriculture, right on the 13,000 square feet of greenhouse space.

And if you're looking for a little more fun? Host a party or event at Driving Wind! You'll get access to U-pick plus other fun add-ons like a bounce house, wagon tour, catering, and a fire pit. It's a Hoosier family's dream. Or visit on select Saturdays from June to October for the pop-up market, featuring local vendors and farmers.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

Before visiting Driving Winds, make sure the berries you hope to pick are in season. Check the farm's website and Facebook page for frequent updates on picking conditions, plus when berries are at peak ripeness.

Containers are provided for U-pick, so all you need to bring are sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. Bring plenty of water and extra cash or a credit card to pay for food and drinks from the cafe.

Parking and admission are free, and there are plenty of parking spaces to be found even during events. If you're hoping to hit up other attractions after a day on the farm, look for things to do in Indianapolis for the day. Check out U-pick flower farms in Indiana, like Field to Vase, or natural attractions like White River State Park and the Monon Trail.

Ready to visit Driving Wind Farm & Cafe? Plan your summer trip today and get ready to come home with buckets of berries—and family memories that'll last forever.