Spring has sprung and it’s finally warm enough to get outside. Whether you want to spend time at the playground or explore a new hiking trail, why not spend the next beautiful spring day at a local farm?
Family farms aren’t just for the fall! During the spring, many farms nearby reopen to the public to give visitors a chance to buy some fresh produce, see adorable animals or even learn something new about agriculture.
We rounded up some of our favorite family farms worth the drive from Chicago.
This article was recently updated on April 2, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Assistant Editor, Nikki Roberts. The update included her research and fact-checking expertise to provide the latest information on local farms near Chicagoland, aligning with Chicago Parent’s mission to provide the top parenting resources for local families. Questions? Please reach out to nikki@chicagoparent.com.
Looking for more kid-friendly activities? Check out our spring family fun guide.
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.
Angelic Organics Learning Center
- Address: 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia
Angelic Organics is a learning center that hosts workshops, field trips, summer camps and education farm stay at their Angelic Organics Lodge. On the second and fourth Sunday of each month, they offer Sunday Skill Share events to learn about gardening.
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 like the upcoming “Cow Pie Bingo” 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 over 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!
The Talking Farm
- Address: 3669 Howard Street, Skokie
Beginning in 2006, The Talking Farm strives to connect communities with healthy food. Today, the urban farm offers hands-on education through their learning hours. Join the membership program to pick up a weekly box of in-season produce or visit them at a local farmer’s market.
Prairie Wind Family Farm
- Address: 560 Harris Road, Grayslake
The Prairie Wind Family Farm is a 40-acre, certified organic family farm located about 40 miles north of Chicago in Grayslake. Open year-round, the self-service farm stand features local products from over twenty small-scale, local farmers. Make sure to say hello to Twix the goat when you visit! On Wednesday evenings during the summer, stop by their pop-up farm markets for farm tours and activities.
Mint Creek Farm
- Address: 1693 E. 3800N Road, Cabery
Located in southern Illinois, Mint Creek Farm is worth the trip for foodie families looking for a destination. The farm focuses on raising grass-fed meats raised on certified organic prairie pastures. They host frequent farm dinners featuring Chicago chefs and beverage providers and tours, with a bed and breakfast nearby perfect for an overnight getaway.
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!
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.
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