ML Interest Tag: family-friendly-farm

The 7 Best Petting Farms & Zoos near DC

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

The very best petting zoos for animal lovers in the DC-area

The best learning experiences in life are hands on. To get a better understanding of the animal world, you can make a trip to these family-friendly farm vacations, and visit the best zoos in the US where you can look and touch. But if your own pride wants to snuggle up to a baby goat or hand-feed some exotic animals right now, we rounded up our favorite places for close animal encounters near DC. Scroll down for the best petting zoos and petting farms near Washington, DC.

The Best Animal Encounters near DC

1. Georges Mill Farm

This goat farm in Loudoun County offers a chance to snuggle with goats. For a limited time each spring, Georges Mill opens their (pen) gates to visitors for goat snuggles Mon.-Fri. If you’d like to feed goats, stop by anytime during the week or reserve a bottle feeding ticket online for weekend appointments.

11873 Georges Mill Rd.
Lovettsville, VA
Online: georgesmillcheese.com

2. Nova Wild

Nova Wild, (formerly Roers Zoofari) recently reopened. You can drive your own vehicle through Nova Wild’s interactive safari, where you and your family can feed and interact with a wide array of wildlife, from Watusis to Asian water buffalo. Once you’ve finished your safari, you can park the car and stroll through exhibits to discover over 30 species of exotic butterflies, colorful birds, cheetahs, lemurs, wallabies, and more!

1228 Hunter Mill Rd.
Vienna, VA
Online: novawild.org

3. Leesburg Animal Park

This 21-acre facility offers little ones the chance to take part in interactive animal shows, arts and crafts, as well as visit and pet the animals. Ride a pony on a nice day or head inside on colder, rainy ones to enjoy all the activities that this park offers. Visit everything from farm animals to monkeys, llamas and lemurs. The resident sloth is a fan favorite (can’t make it to the zoo? Cuddle up with this guy instead!).

19270 Monroe-Madison Memorial Hwy.
Leesburg, VA
Online: leesburganimalpark.com

4. Frying Pan Farm

Rabbits, sheep, chickens, cows and draft horses are in the mix at this Frying Pan based petting zoo located in Fairfax County. Add in the pigs and a peacock or two and you have yourself a fun, educational day spent outside. The traditional red barn farm is a working demonstration full of new baby animals joining the Kidwell Farm family.

2709 West Ox Rd.
Herndon, VA
Online: fairfaxcounty.gov/fryingpanpark

5. Catoctin Wildlife Preserve & Zoo

Head into MD for a day of outdoor adventuring at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo where families can roam for hours and always see something new. Over 100-acres of wildlife fun little ones can touch and feel large herbivores while bouncing around the grounds on a safari ride. Take in an interactive show for more touchy-feely moments. Note: Camel rides and parakeet feedings are currently not available.

13019 Catoctin Furnace Rd.
Thurmont, MD
Online: cwpzoo.com

6. Green Meadows Farm

Get up close and personal at this petting zoo where you can feed sheep and goats for free and even take in a pig race or two. Green Meadows has over 200 animals to visit and touch from alpacas and llamas to pea fowl and draft horses with a kangaroo or two as well.

10102 Fingerboard Rd.
Ijamsville, MD
Online: greenmeadowsevents.com

7. Luray Zoo

A little further away, this zoo hosts rescued animals to give them a second chance. Want to meet these special creatures? Take a Discovery Tour (call for pricing) at this rescue zoo with one of the owners. You can explore the zoo after hours for more chances to get up-close and personal with the animals. You’ll get hands-on interactions and feed the animals.

1087 US Hwy. 211 West
Luray, VA
Online: lurayzoo.com

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The 11 Best U-Pick Berry Farms Near Atlanta

by Tinybeans Team

The time is ripe to hit the farm in Georgia for juicy strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and peaches (not to mention other perks, like pony rides, tractor rides, corn pits, maybe a CSA box program, and inflatables at some spots). There’s no denying these Atlanta u-pick farms have got it all for families. While different crops ripen at different times, we’ve picked our favorite farms to take the small set for a day of fresh air, berry-stained fingers, and happy hearts. Read on for more about our favorite fields for strawberry (and other berries!) picking fun.

Note: If you’re looking for U-pick apple orchards, we’ve got seven to visit that aren’t too far from the city.

Wild Fern Ranch

Wild Fern Ranch offers around 1000 Certified All Natural (CNG) blueberry bushes of 3 different varieties that yield roughly 500 pound of delish blueberries per week. Open and in season from early June through mid July (check social media pages for details), you can visit from Mon.-Sat. for u-pick from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Don't miss community days weekly for discounted picking and Friday night events for live music.

12000 Hutchesons Ferry Rd.
Palmetto, GA 30268
404-545-4171

Warbington Farms

Offering a “Farm Fun Park” that includes a petting zoo, corn crib, inflatable slides, bounce house and playground set, this u-pick has the market cornered on farm fun in Forsyth County. Other perks include live bluegrass music and "hey" rides (pricing for Family Fun Park is $9 per child and $5 for ages 12 years and older, plus tax). Strawberry picking hours will be determined by availability and weather, so check here for current conditions before you go.

5555 Crow Rd.
Cumming, Ga
770-380-2920
Online: warbingtonfarms.com

Adams Farm

Blueberries are the newest addition to the u-pick options at Adams Farm in Fayetteville, and since the fields are netted, you don't have to compete with the birds for the berries. Containers are provided, there's a market with fruits and vegetables, and you can visit Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

1486 Georgia Highway 54 West
Fayetteville, Ga
770-461-9395
Online: adamsfarmfayettevillega.com

Washington Farms

At this Watkinsville farm, spring strawberry season begins in mid-April and comes not only with buckets for berry picking, but also four super Saturdays where activities include wagon rides, a petting zoo, a cow train, a corn box, and more. Go later in the summer for blackberries, and pick your pumpkins there in the fall. Just be sure you pick before you play to make sure that the fields don't get picked out early! Open Monday-Saturdays 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Sundays.

5691 Hog Mountain Rd.
Bogart, Ga 30622
770-554-8119
Online: washingtonfarms.net

DJ's U-Pick Blueberry Farm

For a closer-to-town option, DJ's—located a stone's throw from the Gwinnett Braves stadium—specializes in blueberries, but they also have Scottish Highland Cows (Coco & Rudolph) and goats on our farm. Please check DJ's Facebook page daily for hours or call ahead to make sure they are indeed open for the day. Open Monday-Sunday from 8 a.m. until picked out.

1839 Prospect Rd.
Lawrenceville, Ga
678-442-7853
Online: djsupickblueberries.com

Moon Farms Country Market

At Moon Farms Country Market, you'll find over 25,000 plants consisting of two different varieties of strawberries— Camarosa and Chandler. Pick-your-own fresh from the farm, or call ahead and place a pre-pick order. Check the website for fruit availability, and go Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sun. from 2-6 p.m.

3498 GA-72
Colbert, Ga 30628
706-338-0065
Online: moon-farms.com

 

Southern Belle Farm

Head to this 330-acre family farm in McDonough for pick-your-own berries, plus a country market, jumping pillows, a cow train, pedal cars, a hayride, a giant tube slide, and more (all on the weekends). Admission to the farm activities is $8/ person, but the berries are free to pick (you pay for what you pick after you're finished picking). Go Mon.-Fri. from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sundays 1-6 p.m. Do yourself a favor and pick up an order of strawberry shortcake (with or without soft serve ice cream) before you leave!

1658 Turner Church Rd.
McDonough, Ga
770-288-2582
Online: southernbellefarm.com

Mercier Orchards

This family orchard, now in its 4th generation, begins picking season with strawberries in mid to late April, then offers blueberries, blackberries, peaches, and apples through the summer and into the fall. Go for the u-picks on select dates, but stay for the bakery and deli, market store, and now a farm winery and cider house.  Open seven days a week from 7 a.m.-6 p.m., but u-picks are available only on select dates, weather permitting.

8660 Blue Ridge Dr.
Blue Ridge, Ga 30513
706-632-3411
Online: mercier-orchards.com

Mitcham Farm

This working farm in Oxford, Georgia offers seasonal u-pick patches for strawberries and blueberries in the spring, blackberries in the summer, and pumpkins in the fall. Hours depend on availability of the crop and the weather, so be sure to check this out before you load the car. In addition to the fields, Mitcham Farm also has homemade strawberry ice cream, strawberry jam, local honey, frog jam, preserves, salsas, fresh produce (depending on availability) and other specialty items for sale at their Farm Stand, in addition to two family swings, a farm animal viewing area, and a picnic area onsite. Go Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sun. from 1-5 p.m., weather permitting. Check their Facebook page for live updates on picking conditions.

797 Macedonia Church Rd.
Oxford, Ga 30054
770-855-1530
Online: mitchamfarm.com

Fleeman's Blueberries

Fleeman’s offers clean potties, a picnic table under the shade of an old oak and eight varieties of Rabbit-Eye, pesticide-free blueberries perfect for little pickers. Prices and hours will vary depending on weather and crop availability, but the picking season typically runs from late June through August. Call ahead to check out the farmer's forecast for the day.

716 Harrison Mill Rd.
Winder, Ga
770-867-3420
Online: fleemansblueberries.com

Jaemor Farms

While they only open their farm for strawberry picking one day a year—this year on May 5—the folks at Jaemor Farm know how to throw a party. In addition to picking, the kiddos will go bananas over the hayrides, petting zoo, farm slide, skeeball and duck races, while you can taste a couple of new recipes at the strawberry cook-off and check out the local vendors at the festival portion of the farm. Don't miss the homemade strawberry milkshakes and fresh milk samples from Mountain Fresh Creamery's mobile dairy unit. Check website for updates on u-pick events.

5340 Cornelia Hwy.
Alto, Ga 30510
770-869-3999
Online: jaemorfarms.com

Remember to always call ahead since farm hours and crop availability are constantly in flux. Also note that many farms are cash only so hit the bank before hitting the road! Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, bug spray, and water.

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National Parks That Seattle Families Love (& Amazing Cabins Nearby)

by Allison Sutcliffe

It’s National Parks Week, and we count ourselves lucky to have some of the nation’s most spectacular national parks, forests and reserves nearby. These are the places Seattle families can find some of the best skiing, hiking, biking and vacationing around. So if you’re looking for a way to celebrate these treasured spots, or you just need another outdoor adventure, here’s what you need to know.

Mt. Rainier National Park

Jill McQuade

Seattle families know that Mt. Rainier is the belle of the ball in Washington state. People from all over the world flock to the park to hike its trails, find spectacular waterfalls and make their way to Paradise. Lucky for us, it’s right in our backyard. Late summer is the best time to visit the park, as most trails are snow-free and dry. But it’s also the busiest. Plan a spring trip to beat the heat and the crowds this year.

Nearby Airbnb: Set up your family’s basecamp at this newly built cabin with Scan design in mind. Two bedrooms and a sleeping loft means families can spread out and settle in when they visit. And the outside hot tub and fire pit mean you can relax after a day exploring the mountain.

Olympic National Park

Kylie Kirkland

Diversity is the name of the game in Olympic National Park and the national forest that borders it. These two treasures include everything from some of the highest peaks in Washington to the Pacific’s dramatic coastline. It’s where you’ll find fabulous ocean-side camping spots at Kalaloch, larger than life trees in the Valley of the Rainforest Giants and quiet scenic hikes that lead you to hidden mountain lakes, cascading waterfalls and rocky ridges with spectacular views. Find more family-friendly trip ideas here.

Nearby Airbnb: We doubt you’ll run into any vampires when you book this cabin in Forks...but you never know. It's the perfect launching pad for your Olympic Park adventures. Enjoy the gourmet kitchen and two bedrooms so everyone has their own space; you’ll even find a pack ‘n’ play to use if you’re bringing baby.

North Cascades National Park

Doug M. via yelp

Spring is the beginning of hiking season at this local national park, especially at the lower elevations. Head out in search of waterfalls or wildlife anytime between April and October with your little nature lovers. Plus with four lakes to explore, you’ll find primo boating whether you’re in a kayak, canoe or motorboat. 

Nearby Airbnb: Stay river-side at this 2-bedroom A-frame hideaway. It’s a great place to unplug and plan your North Cascade adventures.

Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Mounument

Allison Sutcliffe

Have a blast at this iconic south end mountain when you visit with kids. Whether you hike the scenic trails, make the drive up to Spirit Lake or visit any of the many visitors and science centers scattered throughout the park, you’ll find new adventures around every bend. Kids will love spotting evidence of the volcano’s eruption as they make their way through the park. Pack plenty of sunscreen and your good hiking poles on this outdoor adventure.

Nearby Airbnb With so many things to do nearby, this simple two bedroom cabin set on 2.5 acres has everything you need. It’s just a short walk from Cresep Bay Park and about 30 miles from the monument.

San Juan Islands National Monument

Allison Sutcliffe

We’re pretty sure Seattle families don’t have dibs on the San Juan Islands, but we sure wish we did. Whether you’re exploring San Juan, weekending in a treehouse on Orcas or launching kayaks from the shores of Lopez, these islands are a favorite vacay destination for a reason. They’re also part of a national monument that encompasses 1,000 acres of land across the archipelago. From the heights of Mount Constitution to the criss-crossing straights that surround them, this is PNW magic at its finest.

Nearby Airbnb: If a rustic stay is what you’re after, try a family-friendly farm stay or book a few nights at this ocean-side San Juan home that’s a hop, skip and a jump from downtown Friday Harbor.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Whether you ski and sled there in the winter or hike its trails in the summer, this nearby national forest is always worth the drive. The great outdoors doesn’t get any better than hiking Artists Point or the Chain Lakes Loop during the summer months. Your kids will love finding snow up there if you go!

Nearby Airbnb: You’ll find Scan design and all the amenities you and the kids need at this newly renovated Tree Fort cabin in the Snowline community. The nearby Nooksack River, hiking trails and easy access to the national forest make outdoor recreation possible all year round.

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Allison Sutcliffe

In the heart of this 3.8 million acre national forest that borders the East Cascades, you’ll find two family favorites—Leavenworth and Lake Chelan, plus all the hiking, camping, fishing, skiing and sledding you’ve ever wanted. Experience the full grandeur of this national forest when you ride the Lady of the Lake up the 50-mile river, past Field’s Point Landing to the remote town of Stehekin.

Nearby Airbnb: With so many places to stay, it’s hard to choose just one. Families can center themselves on brats, beer and exploring when they book this 3-bedroom cabin in Leavenworth that’s equally close to Wenatchee and Stevens Pass. Or make this 2-bedroom waterfront condo in Manson your starting point for a Stehekin weekend.

Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve

We heart this national spot that’s a short ferry ride away and is a great spot for history buffs of all ages. Ebey’s Landing on Whidbey Island includes three state parks and easy hiking trails that make it a perfect destination for families with Littles in tow. The Kettle Spur and Pratt Loop trails are just the right distance for enthusiastic tots, and once you’ve explored the prairie, get out at explore Coupeville and the fantastic Price Sculpture Forest when you’re there.

Nearby Airbnb: Stay in the heart of downtown Coupeville in this newly constructed cottage that sleeps four.

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Within these national forest borders you’ll find three majestic peaks—Mt. Rainier, Mount St. Helens and Mt. Adams. It’s also home to the famous Ape Caves, exciting lava tubes worth exploring (the Lower Cave is pretty kid-friendly) when they re-open. If you’re looking for lesser traveled paths, you’ll find them here, along with horseback riding, biking trails and fishing spots a-plenty.

Nearby Airbnb: This 3-bedroom cottage along the Cowlitz River should give everyone the space they need when you’re on vacay. You’ll find a fire pit, hot tub and wood burning stove that add to the cozy ambiance of this spot.

—Allison Sutcliffe

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