Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor — Le Mars, Iowa

Discover the Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor in Iowa

Located in Le Mars, Iowa, the Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor offers visitors an immersive look at the world’s largest ice cream brand at its global headquarters. This engaging Visitor Center & Food Production Experience walks guests through the history of Wells Enterprises, explains how ice cream is made at scale, and celebrates the innovation behind iconic brands like Blue Bunny. The visit ends with a stop at the on-site parlor serving freshly scooped ice cream.
Why it’s special: This experience combines industrial-scale food manufacturing storytelling with a nostalgic ice cream parlor, all in the self-proclaimed Ice Cream Capital of the World.

History & Story of Wells Enterprises

Wells Enterprises was founded in 1913 in Le Mars by F.W. Wells as a small dairy operation. Over the next century, it grew into one of the largest ice cream manufacturers in the world, producing well-known brands distributed nationwide. Despite its global reach, the company has remained rooted in northwest Iowa, where Le Mars continues to serve as its operational and cultural home.

What You’ll See & Do at the Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor

• Explore interactive exhibits explaining how ice cream is produced

• Learn about ingredient sourcing, freezing, and packaging processes

• Discover the evolution of Wells Enterprises and its brands

• Watch educational videos about large-scale ice cream manufacturing

• Enjoy scoops, shakes, and sundaes at the on-site ice cream parlor

Hands-On Elements: Interactive exhibits and hands-on educational displays.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout the visitor center and parlor.
Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop offering branded merchandise, novelty items, and ice-cream-themed gifts.

Pricing of the Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)
Visitor Center admission is free; ice cream purchases are priced separately.

Visiting information

Duration: 45–75 minutes
Age limits: All ages welcome
Accessibility: Fully accessible visitor center, exhibits, and ice cream parlor
Working hours: Open Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM–5:00 PM.

Nearby

• Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor downtown Le Mars

• Le Mars Ice Cream Days Plaza

• Plymouth County Historical Museum

FAQs About Visiting the Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor

Is this a factory tour with production-floor access?
No. This is a visitor center experience with exhibits and videos rather than a walk-through of active production areas.

Can visitors see ice cream being made?
The process is explained through interactive exhibits and videos, not live production viewing.

Is this experience suitable for young children?
Yes. The interactive displays and ice cream parlor make it especially appealing for families.

Do I need a reservation to visit?
No reservation is required for general visits to the visitor center or parlor.

Is this the same as the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor?
The Visitor Center is adjacent to the parlor and operated by Wells Enterprises; both are typically visited together.