If you’re like me and always searching for a “Farm and Petting Zoo Near Me” in Virginia, you’re in luck! I’ve got kids who are obsessed with animals, and we’ve spent countless hours exploring the best farms and petting zoos in the state. And let me tell you, Virginia has some real gems that fit your “Farm and Petting Zoo Near Me” search – from adorable baby goats to majestic horses, there’s something for every animal lover. From petting zoos to working farms, we’ll take you on a tour of the best “Farm and Petting Zoo Near Me” spots in Virginia, so you can start planning your next family adventure!
And when you’re ready to explore even more of what the region has to offer, be sure to dive into our expert guides to Farms Animals Near Me in Maryland, where you’ll discover even more furry friends waiting to be met. Or, check out our insider tips on Things to do In Northern Virginia, from hidden gems to popular hotspots.
Now, let’s dive into the best farm and petting zoo near me spots in Virginia because we have many farm animals to visit!
Petting Zoo in Virginia
1. Frying Pan Farm Park
Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon, Virginia, is hands-down the best petting farm near me in Northern Virginia! This hidden gem preserves and interprets farm life from the 1920s to the 1950s, offering an interactive and educational experience that’s perfect for families. I’m a regular visitor with my kids and friends, and we always have a blast. The best part? Admission is free! While some activities like tractor rides may have a fee, the farm itself is open to the public at no cost. With adorable baby farm animals always on hand, it’s a must-visit destination that should be on your bucket list this year.
Key Details:
Address: 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, VA
Hours of Operation: 9 AM to 5 PM daily
Cost: Free
For more information on events and activities, visit their website: Frying Pan Farm Park.
2. Nova Wild
Nova Wild, located in Vienna, Virginia, offers a unique outdoor adventure where visitors can drive through an interactive safari and encounter a wide array of wildlife. This non-profit organization focuses on animal welfare and provides educational experiences that connect visitors with nature.
Key Details:
Address: 1228 Hunter Mill Rd, Vienna, VA 22182
Hours of Operation: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
Cost: Adults $20/ Kids $15/ Military Family $15
For more information on activities and how to plan your visit, please visit their website: Nova Wild.
3.Reston Farm Garden Market
Reston Farm Garden Market, located in Reston, Virginia, serves as a vibrant hub for those passionate about gardening and fresh market products. This family-friendly destination offers a rich variety of plants, garden supplies, and local produce, alongside fun seasonal events that engage the whole family. Please note that this is a small farm with minimal animals.
Key Details:
Address: 10800 Baron Cameron Ave, Reston, VA 20190
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM
Cost: FREE
For more detailed information, including upcoming events and specific offerings, visit their official website at Reston Farm Garden Market.
4. Great Country Farms
Great Country Farms in Bluemont, Virginia, offers a vibrant farm experience with a focus on community-supported agriculture and family fun. This destination provides a delightful blend of pick-your-own fruit activities, educational farm tours, and various seasonal events that engage visitors of all ages.
Key Details:
Address: 18780 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont, VA 20135
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost: General admission varies by day and event; typically ranges from $10 to $16 per person based on the season.
For more detailed information, visit their official website at Great Country Farms.
5. Hope & Serenity Farm Sanctuary
Hope & Serenity Farm Sanctuary, located in Nokesville, Virginia, provides a safe and nurturing environment for over 300 rescued farm animals. This non-profit sanctuary focuses on animal welfare and offers educational tours, promoting a deeper connection between visitors and animals.
Key Details:
Address: 10445 Manley Road, Nokesville, VA 20181
Hours of Operation: Visits are by appointment only.
Cost: The sanctuary operates on donations, so a $20 per person is required.
For further details and to schedule a visit, please check their website: Hope & Serenity Farm Sanctuary.
6. Maymont Farm
Maymont Farm in Richmond, Virginia, offers visitors a delightful journey through a historical farm setting. This farm is a part of the larger Maymont estate, which includes gardens and wildlife habitats, providing a comprehensive educational and recreational experience.
Key Details:
Address: 1000 Spottswood Road, Richmond, VA, 23220
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: A $5 suggested admission fee is recommended to support the farm.
For more information on activities and how to plan your visit, check out their official website: Maymont Farm.
7. Metro Richmond Zoo
Metro Richmond Zoo, located in Moseley, Virginia, offers an expansive array of animal exhibits and interactive experiences. This zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts and provides educational opportunities that allow visitors to learn about wildlife from around the world.
Key Details:
Address: 8300 Beaver Bridge Road, Moseley, VA 23120
Hours of Operation: Open Monday-Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM; Closed on Sundays.
Cost: $26.95 per adult/ $19.95 per kids
For more detailed information on exhibits, events, and conservation initiatives, visit their official website: Metro Richmond Zoo.
8. Heavenly Heart Farm & Mini Petting Zoo
Heavenly Heart Farm & Mini Petting Zoo is a charming family-owned farm in Roanoke, Virginia, offering a warm, interactive experience with a variety of miniature farm animals. This petting zoo is ideal for children and families looking to engage directly with animals in a safe and nurturing environment.
Key Details:
Address: 7289 Belleville Rd, Roanoke, VA 24019
Hours of Operation: Open by appointment only.
Cost: Pricing varies by event and group size, with options for tours and animal interactions.
Visit their official website for more information and to book your visit: Heavenly Heart Farm & Mini Petting Zoo.
9. Ever After Alpaca Farm
Ever After Alpaca Farm, located in Virginia, offers a unique opportunity to interact closely with alpacas. This farm provides a hands-on experience where visitors can feed, play, and take selfies with these gentle animals, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and animal enthusiasts.
Key Details:
Address: [Specific address not provided on the website]
Hours of Operation: By appointment only, with seasonal operations.
Cost: Prices for public and private interactions vary, with private tours available for special occasions.
For more detailed information and to book a visit, check their official website: Ever After Alpaca Farm.
This small farm is appreciated for its personal touch and the care given to its animals, making it a highly recommended spot for animal lovers looking to experience farm life in a more intimate setting. Visitors often leave with great impressions, praising the farm for its educational and engaging approach to animal care.
For more details, it’s best to reach out directly to Clover Meadows Farm to learn more about their offerings and to plan your visit.
10. Petting Zoo
The Petting Zoo at Yoder’s Country Market offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. Located to the right of the main building, it features a variety of animals such as goats, exotic chickens, Mandarin ducks, peacocks, and more. Visitors can feed the animals with feed purchased on-site.
Key Details:
Address: 2105 S. Seminole Trail, Madison, VA 22727
Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Closed on Sundays
Cost: Free admission, feed available for purchase
For more information, visit their official website.
11. Flat Creek Farm Petting Zoo and Pony Rides
Flat Creek Farm Petting Zoo and Pony Rides, located in Amelia Court House, Virginia, is a charming destination that offers a variety of engaging activities for families and animal lovers. It’s a place where visitors can enjoy close encounters with a range of friendly farm animals and participate in fun-filled events.
Key Details:
Address: 13342 Lodore Rd, Amelia Court House, VA 23002
Hours of Operation: Open Thursday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM; closed Monday through Wednesday.
Cost: $60 for up to 12 people (at this time they only offer group prices)
Visitors often praise the farm for its welcoming atmosphere, well-cared-for animals, and the quality of the interactive experiences provided. It’s a place that promises not only fun but also educational opportunities where children and adults alike can learn more about farm life and animal care.
For more detailed information or to plan your visit, check out their official website or contact them directly to ensure the best possible experience.
12. Virginia Safari Park
Virginia Safari Park, nestled in Natural Bridge, Virginia, offers a unique drive-thru safari experience where visitors can interact with and feed exotic animals from the comfort of their own vehicles. The park is committed to animal conservation and education, providing a hands-on learning environment that’s fun for all ages.
Key Details:
Address: 229 Safari Lane, Natural Bridge, VA 24578
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9 AM to 5:30 PM; last car admitted at 4 PM.
Cost: $27.95 adults/ $20.95 kids/ 2 and under are free!
For more information, check out their official website: Virginia Safari Park.
13. Luray Zoo
Luray Zoo, known as a rescue zoo, is located in Luray, Virginia, and is dedicated to providing a safe haven for rescued and non-releasable animals. This unique zoo focuses on animal welfare and education, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about a variety of species while supporting conservation efforts.
Key Details:
Address: 1087 US Highway 211 West, Luray, Virginia 22835
Hours of Operation: The zoo operates year-round but hours vary by season. From April through October, it’s open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM. During November through February, it’s open from 11 AM to 4 PM Wednesday through Sunday.
Cost: Admission prices are $12 for adults (ages 13-55), $11 for seniors (ages 56+), and $6 for children (ages 3-12). Children under 2 enter free.
Luray Zoo is a great place for families and animal lovers to explore, offering an intimate and educational experience with animals that have been given a second chance at life. Visitors can enjoy various exhibits, including one of the largest collections of venomous snakes in the U.S. and a petting zoo that is perfect for younger guests.
For more information, including specific seasonal hours and any special events, you can visit their official website here.
14. Bluebird Gap Farm
Bluebird Gap Farm in Hampton, Virginia, provides an engaging farm experience across 60 acres, featuring approximately 150 domestic and wild animals. This urban farm is perfect for family outings, offering educational and interactive encounters with a variety of animals, from traditional farm animals to exotic birds and waterfowl.
Key Details:
Address: 60 Pine Chapel Road, Hampton, VA 23669
Hours of Operation: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free admission; fees may apply for special events.
For more information, you can visit their official website: Bluebird Gap Farm.
15. Fort Chiswell Animal Park
Fort Chiswell Animal Park, located in Max Meadows, Virginia, offers a unique safari experience where visitors can get up close with a variety of animals from around the world. This animal park combines the excitement of a safari bus tour with the charm of a walk-through petting zoo, set against the backdrop of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains.
Key Details:
Address: 569 Red Hollow Rd, Max Meadows, VA 24360
Hours of Operation: Open daily from April to Labor Day, and weekends only outside this period. Hours vary by season.
Cost: General Admission is $20 for adults and $15 for children (ages 3-12), with children 2 and under free. Additional costs for animal food and other activities.
For more detailed information on schedules, special events, and what to expect during your visit, please check their website: Fort Chiswell Animal Park.
So, there you have it – the ultimate guide to finding the best “Farm and Petting Zoo Near Me” in Virginia! We hope you’ve enjoyed this tour of the state’s top farms and petting zoos, and that you’re already planning your next family adventure. Whether you’re a native Virginian or just visiting, we’re confident that these amazing destinations will bring joy and wonder to your little ones. Happy exploring, and don’t forget to share your farm-fresh memories with us!
