Do your kids love farm animals? A day spent watching (or cuddling) farm animals is fun for the whole family. Make a quick stop to see the Clive Goats or make a whole event of it at Howell’s or Center Grove.
Please check with the farm before you go to make sure they’re open and the animals are available for viewing. Also, remember to check the weather!
Clive Goats
Where: Find their current location here.
When: Warmer months
What: These working goats manage invasive plant species, like bush honeysuckle and garlic mustard along the Greenbelt Park and trail system. View and feed them special food purchased at the machines at City Hall.
Howell’s Greenhouse and Pumpkin Patch
Where: 3145 Howell Court, Cumming
When: Mid-May – Sept 4, 2023. Daily viewing year-round.
What: While you can watch the playful goats year-round at Howell’s, during the summer you can cuddle baby goats. Purchase a ticket to get up close and hold these cute little babies.
Center Grove Orchard
Where: 32835 610th Avenue, Cambridge
When: Varies by season.
What: Whether you are there to pick strawberries in the summer or enjoy all the fall activities, make time to see the goats, pigs, ducks, chickens, turkeys, and sheep.
Hovick Family Farm Petting Zoo
Where and When: Follow on Facebook for locations
What: This traveling petting zoo attends many events around the metro throughout the year. You can also have them come to your house for your own “backyard barnyard.”
Rusty Stars Alpaca
Where: 2054 Rustic Ln, Winterset
When: Wednesday 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. -2 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
What: Visit the alpacas and shop their cute alpaca gift store. Want to interact more? Try out one of their alpaca yoga classes or go on an alpaca hike.
Dog Day Acres
Where: 54254 150th Ave, Lucas, IA
When: By appointment.
What: Tours are available by request on this working farm raising cattle, mini donkeys, goats, and more. They also have the option to stay the night at the farm in a cozy 3 bedroom, 3 bath ranch house.
