Looking for a fun way to get outside and see animals this spring? Family-friendly farms near Chicago are the perfect place to meet baby goats, pet fluffy bunnies and feed chickens—while enjoying fresh air and hands-on fun with your kids.
While farms are often associated with fall festivals, spring is one of the best times to visit local farms. Many reopen in April and May with adorable animals to meet, open barn play areas, fresh produce stands and even interactive classes for kids.
Whether you want to snuggle a baby alpaca, bottle-feed a lamb or simply wander a scenic farmyard with your little ones, these farms offer an unforgettable way to connect with nature. We’ve rounded up some of the best farms near Chicago to visit with kids—all worth the short drive for a day full of animal encounters and outdoor fun.
Read more: 5 Must-See Spring Museum Exhibits That Will Wow Your Chicagoland Kids
Best local farms near Chicagoland
Historic Wagner Farm
- Address: 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview
Step back in time to farm life of decades past on the 18.6-acre historic Wagner Farm in Glenview. The farm provides a unique opportunity for families to experience “the way things used to be” through learning about the farm’s livestock, discovering the many crops that grow on the farm and experiencing the many interactive exhibits offered.
The Children’s Farm at The Center in Palos Park
- Address: 12700 Southwest Hwy, Palos Park
The Children’s Farm features a junior farmer’s program, open farm days and many special events for families to enjoy fun on the farm. They also offer volunteer opportunities for more of a hands-on experience.
Lambs Farm
- Address: 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville
Located immediately off the Tri-State in Libertyville, Lambs Farm is an outing young child will delight in. With more than 300 animals with their own names, personalities and stories, your kids will go wild as they explore the Farmyard. There is also a petting area, discovery center, miniature golf, a miniature train, carousel and horses to enjoy!
Hephzibah Farms
- Address: 13202 Hebron Road, Hebron
If you truly want to see a working farm, then a visit to Hephzibah Farms is a must. Private tours allow guests to meet and hold many of their animals like baby chicks, chicken, alpaca, and kids (baby goats). Who knows? You may be able to feed one of the kids! Stop by the store for fresh baked goods, farm fresh eggs, and more.
Rustic Road Farm
- Address: 1N292 Brundige Road, Elburn
Head out to the western suburbs of Elburn to a 25-acre farm. Find organic produce and eggs, and raw honey. Make sure to save time to visit the farm residents, chicken, sheep, goats, and pigs. On certain days, you can even snuggle with the goats!
Primrose Farm
- Address: 5N726 Crane Road, St. Charles
If you’re looking for a working farm experience that feels like a step back in time, Primrose Farm in St. Charles is a must-visit. Families can get up close with farm animals like cows, chickens, sheep, and goats while learning about what daily life was like on a 1930s dairy farm. Seasonal events like Meet the Machines and Sheep Shearing Days offer even more reasons to visit.
Magic Meadows Alpacas
- Address: 9502 Thayer Road, Wonder Lake
Have a magical time learning about alpacas at Magic Meadows Alpacas. During your private tour, owners Sally and Mike will share fascinating tidbits about their Suri alpacas. Not only will you learn about these gentle creatures, but you’ll get to pet and feed them. Trust me, kids will never want to leave. While you’re here, say hello to the cat and horses.
Honey Bee Gardens Farm
- Address: 8405 Kearney Road, Downers Grove
Beginning June 7, 2024, guests can enjoy perusing through the farmers market on Fridays to find fresh produce, eggs, honey and much more from local artisans. On Saturdays throughout the summer and fall, families can also participate in the Buzz Around the Farm program and explore the farm, make friends with their farm animals also known as “Barnyard Buddies.” Fishing, paddle boats, and a brand new play structure will also be available then.
This article was recently updated on April 11, 2025 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her research and fact-checking expertise to provide the latest information on local farms near Chicagoland. Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.
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