Visiting an animal farm can be a delightful and educational experience for preschoolers, offering them the chance to interact with animals, learn about farm life, and enjoy the great outdoors. New Jersey is home to several fantastic animal farms that are perfect for young children. Here are some of the best animal farms in NJ for preschoolers to visit in the summer.
1. Johnson’s Corner Farm
Location: Medford, NJ
Why It’s Great:
- Petting Zoo: Johnson’s Corner Farm features a petting zoo where preschoolers can interact with goats, sheep, chickens, and more.
- Discovery Barnyard: A play area with pedal go-karts, a splash pad, and climbing structures.
- Hayrides: Enjoy scenic hayrides around the farm, perfect for little ones.
- Pick-Your-Own: Seasonal fruit and vegetable picking, including strawberries, blueberries, and corn.
Activities:
- Feed and pet farm animals in the petting zoo.
- Explore the Discovery Barnyard and cool off in the splash pad.
- Take a family hayride through the farm.
- Pick fresh fruits and vegetables to take home.
Tips:
- Visit early in the day to avoid the summer heat.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water to stay comfortable.
- Check their website for seasonal events and special activities.
2. Alstede Farms
Location: Chester, NJ
Why It’s Great:
- Diverse Animals: Alstede Farms has a variety of animals, including goats, horses, chickens, and rabbits.
- Interactive Experiences: Opportunities for pony rides, feeding animals, and hayrides.
- Pick-Your-Own: Wide range of fruits and vegetables to pick, such as strawberries, blueberries, and peaches.
- Seasonal Events: Fun events like Strawberry Festival, Peach Harvest Festival, and Harvest Moon Hayride.
Activities:
- Pet and feed the animals in the petting zoo.
- Enjoy a pony ride or a hayride around the farm.
- Pick fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Participate in seasonal festivals and activities.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the farm.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas.
- Visit their farm store for fresh produce and homemade treats.
3. Heaven Hill Farm
Location: Vernon, NJ
Why It’s Great:
- Friendly Animals: Heaven Hill Farm features a variety of farm animals that children can pet and feed.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: A welcoming environment with plenty of space for children to run and play.
- Seasonal Festivals: Enjoy festivals like the Great Pumpkin Festival and the Easter Egg Hunt.
- Farm Market: Offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local products.
Activities:
- Interact with farm animals in a safe, supervised setting.
- Explore the farm during seasonal festivals.
- Pick your own pumpkins or other seasonal produce.
- Shop at the farm market for fresh, local goods.
Tips:
- Check their event calendar for festival dates and activities.
- Bring cash for small purchases and entry fees.
- Plan to spend a few hours to fully enjoy the farm.
4. Brookhollow’s Barnyard
Location: Boonton, NJ
Why It’s Great:
- Hands-On Experiences: Brookhollow’s Barnyard offers interactive experiences like bottle feeding baby animals.
- Train Rides: A mini train ride that’s perfect for young children.
- Play Areas: Farm-themed play areas and picnic spots for families.
- Educational Programs: Informative sessions about the animals and farm life.
Activities:
- Feed and pet baby animals.
- Enjoy a train ride around the farm.
- Play in the farm-themed playground.
- Learn about farm animals through educational programs.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.
- Bring hand sanitizer for use after animal interactions.
- Check their website for hours of operation and special events.
5. Abma’s Farm
Location: Wyckoff, NJ
Why It’s Great:
- Petting Zoo: A charming petting zoo with goats, sheep, alpacas, and more.
- Farm Market: Offers fresh produce, baked goods, and other farm products.
- Greenhouse and Garden Center: Explore a variety of plants and gardening supplies.
- Seasonal Activities: Pumpkin picking, hayrides, and other seasonal fun.
Activities:
- Pet and feed the animals in the petting zoo.
- Shop for fresh produce and baked goods in the farm market.
- Participate in seasonal activities like pumpkin picking.
- Explore the greenhouse and garden center.
Tips:
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
- Bring your own bags for produce and other purchases.
- Enjoy a picnic in the designated areas.
Conclusion
Visiting an animal farm in New Jersey is a perfect way to spend a summer day with your preschooler. These farms offer a mix of fun, education, and hands-on experiences that will delight young children and create lasting memories. Whether you’re petting animals, picking fresh produce, or enjoying a hayride, each of these farms provides unique and engaging activities for families. Plan your visit to one of these top animal farms in NJ and enjoy a fantastic day out with your preschooler.