It’s safe to say that every little one, at some point in their childhood, goes through a “farm phase.” As with most phases, it may not last, but even still, there is some level of fascination with farms that sticks with us for the long run.
If you have a child who loves farms, or you’d love to expose him/her to the source of so many things in our lives, or you’re simply looking for good, old-fashioned fun, then you have to check out Parky’s Farm this summer!
Perhaps you only know of this property within Winton Woods as a place for riding lessons and field trips, but it’s actually a great, affordable destination for families of all ages. While Parky’s Farm is technically open year round and has events throughout the year, summer is its time to shine. The farm officially just opened last week with weekend hours, and then adds Tuesday – Friday hours beginning June 4th. Be sure to visit here to get an exact timeline of open hours and activities. When you do visit, expect to find more than 100 acres to explore, learn, and play, and it’s all just a short drive from most areas of town.
With a Great Parks of Hamilton County Parks Pass (which you should DEFINITELY get for 2018 – it’s just $10 for the year and gets you admission to all the Great Parks!), Parky’s Farm is free to roam and enjoy. Your family can visit farm animals such as goats, chickens, cows, and horses, help maintain the garden and learn how it grows, play on the massive outdoor playground, and have a picnic in one of many scenic spots. For a small fee, you can also do a pony ride (check the website here for specifics on this), explore the farm on a wagon ride, and climb around on the unique, indoor Playbarn.
Beyond the typical offerings at Parky’s, we also love to take advantage of their programs, events, and camps. Parky’s Farm has a rotation of weekly programs, geared towards little ones, which are lead by the friendly staff and are very engaging and educational. Also, every Friday in May, from 10 am to 2 pm, they are hosting Pioneer Pastimes. You do have to register for this event ahead of time, and it’ll take you back in time to learn about farm life in the pioneer days.
And definitely don’t miss out on their popular summer day camps! There are many options throughout the summer for a wide range of ages, and they each have a different farm theme. What a great opportunity for some summer learning, disguised as a fun day at the farm! For more information on these camps, visit here.
Parky’s Farm has long been one of our favorite destinations for outdoor fun, and my kids absolutely love it. We drive 45 minutes to play, explore, and learn, and I never regret that drive. If your family is craving good, old-fashioned fun, then be sure to check out Parky’s Farm this summer!