Children’s Nature Retreat
Truly a sanctuary off the beaten path that will allow your children to explore, interact with, and learn more about each of the animals they have. With over 20 acres of land, this retreat is home to domesticated livestock and exotic animals alike. In the Big Farm area, you’ll find cows, mules, goats, alpacas and horses- including some of the most beautiful Friesians you’ll ever see! My girls especially loved finding the braids in their hair. Wander up the path from the Big Farm and you’ll find African Animals as well as our favorite – the Camel Oasis.
Quick Info:
Reservations: Single Day passes for children 1-12 are $18, while adults run you $28. Tickets are required and can be purchased online here.
Address: 5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine
Phone: (619) 320-4942
Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
Parking: Large lot right out front!
Olivenhain Farms
This sweet farm in North County is built for a fun day with your kids. Not only can your little ones feed the goats, hold a chicken and help brush the sweetest pig, Sweet Pea. This farm offers something for every family – Playtime at the Farm on weekday mornings, Farm Kid Friday, and even Sunset Saturdays that wrap up with delicious s’mores.
We got lucky enough to sign up in time for Playtime at the Farm (get on that subscribers list – spots go quickly!) and had a blast. Outside of the animal fun, my girls got to paint their very own pot, play tic-tac-toe with butterflies and ladybugs, and even tried their very first farm fresh duck egg!
Quick Info:
Reservations: All reservations are made online here – but make sure to subscribe to their e-mail list so you don’t miss when the next months dates are released!
Address: Shared upon booking, Encinitas/Olivenhain
Parking: On-site, plenty for the group!
Sunshine Gardens
While not a full blown farm, this spot is can’t miss. If you’re running errands or want a quick and easy thing to do with your kids – stop here and explore. We love wandering around and always come home with something. Not only will you find everything you need for your garden, but your kids will love seeing the goats, horse, birds, and even BIG DUDE the tortoise!
Quick Info:
Address: 155 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas
Phone: (760) 436-3244
Hours: M-Su 7am-5pm
Parking: Plenty!
Sugar Sweet Farm
Visit this organic hobby farm for a private family tour and you will not regret it! You and your crew will spend 90 minutes exploring the peaceful and unique farm. The farm has everything needed to help your kids explore nature, interact with the animals – and learn along the way. You’ll gather eggs from the hens, meet and brush the animals and even get to play on the farm playground at the end of your tour.
Quick Info:
Reservations: Private family tours run $120 for 90 minutes and can be reserved here.
Address: Shared upon booking, North County.
Phone: 858-264-6525
Hours: Offered during the week at various times.
Parking: On the farm!
Sand n’ Straw Community Farm
Spend the morning here – start it with some fresh coffee from their coffee stand and head on over to feed the pigs at your fam animal visit, and end it with Ms. Nancy and the sweetest story time! The farm animal visit is about half an hour, you’ll meet and feed goats, pigs, and more – but they also have fun slides and room to play and explore!
Quick Info:
Reservations:
Address: 629 Mar Vista Drive, Vista
Phone: (760) 877-9054
Hours: Farm Animal Visits are offered Wednesday & Saturday mornings; I recommend pairing it with story time which is offered Wednesdays at 10am!
Parking: On the farm!
