At Conner Prairie, we believe the future is rooted in understanding the past and embracing innovation. The Food, Farm, and Energy Experience is a bold new initiative that brings together history, science, and sustainability to transform the way people engage with the world around them. Food, Farm, and Energy Experience will be located on Conner Prairie's Conservation Campus and is expected to open in 2029.
Join us on this exciting journey. Together, we’re planting the seeds for a better tomorrow.
Why the Food, Farm, and Energy Experience?
Our world is facing real and growing challenges: climate change, food insecurity, and the rapid loss of vital natural resources. At the heart of these issues is a disconnect—many people no longer understand where their food comes from, how it’s grown, or how they can be part of a more sustainable future.
The Food, Farm, and Energy Experience
The Food, Farm, and Energy Experience will begin its exciting and expansive future by activating three immersive experiences that bring the story of agriculture and sustainability to life. Guests will embark on a powerful journey that bridges the gap between the past and the future, science and story, people and the planet. Along the way, they’ll explore how global innovation is reshaping the way we grow and share food, experience the exciting technologies driving modern agriculture, and connect with the roots of farming through hands-on encounters with animals and heritage practices. Each step invites deeper understanding, sparks meaningful conversations, and inspires action, equipping visitors of all ages to play a role in building a more sustainable and connected future.
Celebration of Innovation | Welcome Building
You will embark on an exciting journey to discover where your food truly comes from and celebrate the incredible innovations that happen in agriculture around the world. You will meet farmers and researchers who are working to solve some of the biggest challenges we face today. You will also explore interactive displays that bring the evolution of farming to life, from traditional practices to today’s high-tech solutions. Plus, you will dive into sensory experiences that let you feel the soil, taste fresh ingredients, and connect directly to the land that feeds us all.
The Historic Lilly Farm Office Livestock Exploration
This space will bring the past and future together in a truly unique way as you will step into the original, restored executive farm office of Eli Lilly, a building that he and his team once managed their livestock operations. You’ll get the chance to meet our animals and discover how livestock farming has evolved over the years. You will learn how today’s farmers and scientists are working together to meet the challenges of tomorrow, and dive into hands-on activities where you will explore genetics and learn how traits in livestock are selected for a more sustainable future.
The Farm Barn
Modern agriculture comes to life as you will explore the evolution of farming tools through interactive exhibits and immersive projection displays. You will discover the incredible ingenuity behind today’s high-tech, high-efficiency farm equipment, designed with a focus on safety and sustainability. You’ll also learn how emerging technologies like drones and satellites are transforming the way we grow food and manage our land for a more sustainable future.
How you can help
The Food, Farm, and Energy Experience will be supported by philanthropy. To learn more about the project and how to get involved, contact Danielle Humphrey, Director of Campaign & Major Gifts.
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