Springtime in Illinois is a time of renewal, with blooming flowers and warmer days inviting families to explore the great outdoors. For those seeking wholesome fun, farms and petting zoos offer the perfect blend of education, entertainment, and connection to nature. Here are some of the best spots to visit across Illinois this month.
Kuipers Family Farm – Maple Park
Located just outside of Aurora, Kuipers Family Farm is a family-owned orchard that comes alive each spring. Visitors can enjoy fresh apple cider donuts, explore the farm's petting zoo, and stroll through flower fields during the Midwest Tulip Fest now underway. The farm's dedication to sustainable farming practices and community engagement makes it a standout destination for those looking to experience the charm of rural Illinois.
Funk Farms – McLean County
Established in 1824, Funk Farms is one of Illinois' oldest farms, co-founded by brothers Absalom and State Representative Isaac Funk. This historic farm, an early client of budding attorney Abraham Lincoln, offers a glimpse into the state's agricultural past, with a focus on environmental stewardship. Visitors can learn about modern farming practices and the emergence of hybrid corn, making it a unique stop for those interested in Illinois' agricultural past, present, and future.
Eckert’s Country Store & Farms – Belleville
Eckert’s County Store & Farms, located near St. Louis, is one of the oldest family-owned farms in the United States. In April, the farm begins its spring season with blooming orchards and the promise of fresh produce. Visitors can enjoy farm tours, pick-your-own fruits, and dine at the farm's restaurant, which serves dishes made with ingredients straight from the fields. Eckert’s dedication to quality and tradition offers an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.
Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo – Nashville
Just 45 minutes east of St. Louis, Rainbow Ranch is a 170-year-old family-owned farm that transforms into a lively petting zoo each spring. Visitors can take a tour of the farm where they meet a diverse array of animals including llamas, camels, and kangaroos, bottle feed baby cows, goats, and sheep, and even cuddle with a baby pot-bellied pig. For those who want to encounter the most exotic animals, Rainbow Ranch is just the spot.
Summerfield Farm and Zoo – Belvidere
Situated near Rockford, Summerfield Farm and Zoo offers a hands-on experience for children and adults alike with a variety of animals. Starting April 26, visitors can enjoy daily animal shows and interactive exhibits such as bottle-feeding goats. Summerfield Farm and Zoo also offers private encounters with sloths and capybaras for an additional fee.
Farmers Rising – Caledonia
Farmers Rising offers a unique farm experience focused on education and community engagement. Visitors can participate in farm camps, culinary programs, and interactive events that teach animal care. The farm also offers overnight stays at its nearby lodge, providing an immersive experience in sustainable farming practices. Activities include harvesting vegetables, collecting eggs, and learning about soil biology. The farm's commitment to giving back through education education makes it a standout destination for those looking for an experience that is both fun and factual.
When planning your trip to visit the many farms and petting zoos here in Illinois, keep in mind the following to ensure your day of fun is as safe and as smooth as possible:
Kuipers Family Farm – Maple Park
Located just outside of Aurora, Kuipers Family Farm is a family-owned orchard that comes alive each spring. Visitors can enjoy fresh apple cider donuts, explore the farm's petting zoo, and stroll through flower fields during the Midwest Tulip Fest now underway. The farm's dedication to sustainable farming practices and community engagement makes it a standout destination for those looking to experience the charm of rural Illinois.
Funk Farms – McLean County
Established in 1824, Funk Farms is one of Illinois' oldest farms, co-founded by brothers Absalom and State Representative Isaac Funk. This historic farm, an early client of budding attorney Abraham Lincoln, offers a glimpse into the state's agricultural past, with a focus on environmental stewardship. Visitors can learn about modern farming practices and the emergence of hybrid corn, making it a unique stop for those interested in Illinois' agricultural past, present, and future.
Eckert’s Country Store & Farms – Belleville
Eckert’s County Store & Farms, located near St. Louis, is one of the oldest family-owned farms in the United States. In April, the farm begins its spring season with blooming orchards and the promise of fresh produce. Visitors can enjoy farm tours, pick-your-own fruits, and dine at the farm's restaurant, which serves dishes made with ingredients straight from the fields. Eckert’s dedication to quality and tradition offers an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.
Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo – Nashville
Just 45 minutes east of St. Louis, Rainbow Ranch is a 170-year-old family-owned farm that transforms into a lively petting zoo each spring. Visitors can take a tour of the farm where they meet a diverse array of animals including llamas, camels, and kangaroos, bottle feed baby cows, goats, and sheep, and even cuddle with a baby pot-bellied pig. For those who want to encounter the most exotic animals, Rainbow Ranch is just the spot.
Summerfield Farm and Zoo – Belvidere
Situated near Rockford, Summerfield Farm and Zoo offers a hands-on experience for children and adults alike with a variety of animals. Starting April 26, visitors can enjoy daily animal shows and interactive exhibits such as bottle-feeding goats. Summerfield Farm and Zoo also offers private encounters with sloths and capybaras for an additional fee.
Farmers Rising – Caledonia
Farmers Rising offers a unique farm experience focused on education and community engagement. Visitors can participate in farm camps, culinary programs, and interactive events that teach animal care. The farm also offers overnight stays at its nearby lodge, providing an immersive experience in sustainable farming practices. Activities include harvesting vegetables, collecting eggs, and learning about soil biology. The farm's commitment to giving back through education education makes it a standout destination for those looking for an experience that is both fun and factual.
When planning your trip to visit the many farms and petting zoos here in Illinois, keep in mind the following to ensure your day of fun is as safe and as smooth as possible:
- Check websites or Facebook pages for hours of operation and for special events that may be taking place.
- Pack hand sanitizer and use after every hands-on interaction with animals.
- Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate shoes suitable for walking through fields or other uneven surfaces.
- Monitor any small children at all times, especially when interacting with animals.