With the weather finally warming up in the Chicago area, families everywhere are heading out for some fun. Many people hit the city or the lake shore for a day-vacation with the kids. But what about activities in a quiet, more rural setting? We’re sharing our favorite four local farms for kids that your family can check out for activities beginning mid-summer through late-summer/fall.
1. Abbey Farms
Abbey Farms is nestled in the west suburb of North Aurora. It has many options for the summer and fall seasons. Starting in late June (weather permitting), the farms open up their Produce Store where anyone from the community can pick up fresh produce. Later in the season towards the end of September, the Seasonal Store & Bakery open up with their famous cider donuts. You can bring your family here for a yummy treat, or a sip of hot cider during Pumpkin Daze Fall Festival when the farm is in full swing. Pumpkin Daze is a Wednesday through Sunday event from the end of September through the end of October. At this fall favorite, families enjoy pumpkin carving, corn mazes, apple picking, and parents can even pick up a craft beer. Finally, there are plenty of Christmas activities families can join in, like Christmas tree cutting and meeting Santa.
2. Mayneland Farm
Located not too far from Abbey Farms, family-owned Mayneland Farm is situated in Naperville. It operates from April to the end of October. The farm is open to the public to purchase quality, fresh produce through farming season. Kids can enjoy learning about different vegetables and fruits, and parents can pick up inexpensive produce while supporting the farm. Bringing a huge group? Schedule a tour and learn more about where the food on your plate comes from. Additionally, the farm offers a beautiful selection of flowers to choose from, and even a hands-on arrangement experience, which is fun for birthday parties!
3. Heider’s Berry Farm
Near the northwest suburb of Woodstock sits a fun farm for all your berry-picking needs. Heider’s Berry Farm is among the rare berry farms to visit near Chicago, providing pick-your-own and pre-picked strawberries and raspberries (seasons vary). They are open every single day of farm season, depending on the weather. The farm is great for families on a budget with free admission and free parking! Since berry-picking relies heavily on temperature and time of year, the farm suggests to check their Facebook page for any hour or produce changes.
4. Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center
Situated in South Barrington, Goebbert’s Farm operates during spring, summer, and fall. Each season has different activities for families to partake in. During spring, the farm offers a beautiful garden center with flowers and gardening materials to spruce up your home. In summer, families can enjoy fresh produce with locally grown or farm-grown fruits and vegetables. Like many local farms for kids, fall brings a festival with many activities to participate in. The on-site bakery also provides yummy treats like pies, cookies, and donuts. Bring your family for a fun day of learning about farm life, and enjoying some farm fresh produce and treats.
