Put some space between you and the concrete jungle by heading out to one of these farms where you’ll be put to work (but only if you want). Whether “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” is on repeat in the car or a distant memory, get ready for the whole gang calling, “Here’s a cow! There’s a cow! Everywhere a cow cow!”—along with other critters, of course. Remember to pack the boots and coveralls!

Photo credit: Verdant View Farm via Facebook

Verdant View Farm Bed and Breakfast
On this dairy farm, you’ll get to milk cows, tend to the calves, and gather eggs from the hens. But first, enjoy a family-style breakfast with the owners, made from foods grown right on the farm! Take a tractor ride through the fields, or take a special apprentice’s class. Choose from cheesemaking, ice cream making, or learning even more about the animals.

Cost: $79-$436/night
429 Strasburg Rd. (Paradise, Pa)
717-687-7353
Online: verdantview.com

Photo credit: Fox Haven Learning Center via Facebook

Fox Haven Learning Center
Only one hour from D.C. in Frederick County, driving to this farm will likely be shorter than your morning commute. Though there aren’t any animals, you and your eco-friendly clan can learn about organic farming practices, navigate using a map and compass (not the one on your phone!), and take farm-to-table cooking classes.

Cost: $225/night
3630 Poffenberger Rd. (Jefferson, Md)
240-490-5484
Online: foxhavenlearningcenter.org

Photo credit: Fairwinds Farm and Stables

Fairwinds Farm and Stables
This working farm is perfect for little equestrians! Take a class on caring for horses, get a riding lesson (8 years+), or just ride the trails. How fun would a sleigh ride be in the winter?! Or let the kiddos get acquainted with their inner cowboy/cowgirl while you sip iced tea (or hot chocolate) on the porch or by the fishing pond.

Cost: $95/night
41 Tailwinds Ln. (North East, Md)
410)-58-8187
Online: fairwindsstables.com

Photo credit: Cornerstone Farm via Flickr

Cornerstone Farm
From gathering eggs, milking goats, feeding the animals first thing in the morning, and gathering vegetables from the garden, this farmstay is the real deal. Finally, the tykes will experience what your mornings must be like (chaotic and busy!). Better yet, all meals are included in the vacation packages (choose from 2- or 3-night stays). Ever been on a hike where a goat carries your things? Or made soap out of goat’s milk? You’ll definitely have something to write home about while staying at this fresh air farm.

Cost: $99+/ight
525 Barnes Rd. (Red Oak, Va)
434-735-0527

Have you ever spent the night on a working farm? Tell us about your adventure in the comments section below. 

—Lisa Ng

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