When warmer temps return to NYC, New Yorkers head outside in a big way. Sometimes that means way outside — as in, making a trip to a farm in the countryside (or maybe one that just feels like it’s beyond the city limits). Whether you want to meet some new baby animals in the spring, visit a working dairy, pick some produce in summer or spend the night at a farm for a down-home family vacation, we’ve got a spot for you. Click through to find your ideal farm outing!

For a Historic Farm: Queens County Farm Museum

To feel like you’ve left the city but stay within its limits, head to the Queens County Farm Museum. The largest remaining tract of undisturbed farmland in New York City, the farm dates back to 1697. In this pastoral setting you’ll find sheep, pigs, goats (which you can feed), chickens, and cattle. Many of the animals are the more robust “heritage breeds” (livestock in danger of becoming extinct that tend to thrive in natural enviornments) or ones that settlers needed in order to survive back in the day, such as cotswald sheep and Dexter steers. The luscious land also offers farmhouse tours, an on-site farm stand, and gift shop. Plus, except on days with special events, admission is free; check site for calendar and schedules.

Good to know:  Farmhouse tours are free year round; and hayrides are offered weekends from May till October (weather permitting.)

73-50 Little Neck Parkway
Queens
Open daily year-round.
10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Online: queensfarm.org

Do you have a favorite farm in the NYC area? Tell us about it in the comments below!

—Rachel Sokol