Family-Friendly Dairy Farm Tours in New York
New York is home to some incredible dairy farms that provide a glimpse into the daily routine of farm life and the hard work behind the dairy we all enjoy. Visiting a dairy farm can be a memorable experience for the entire family, offering everything from hands-on animal care to fascinating tours of the barns, fields, and even high-tech milking parlors. This guide highlights some of New York's most family-friendly dairy farms that offer tours year-round. These tours are a great way to connect with the state's agricultural roots, learn about sustainable farming, and enjoy some fresh dairy products straight from the source.
Hull-O Farms - Durham, NY
Hull-O Farms offers a rich, hands-on experience that's perfect for families looking to learn about farm life. During their Farm Tours & Chores, guests can meet cows, calves, pigs, goats, and even deer. Kids and adults alike can participate in daily farm tasks, from milking cows to collecting freshly laid eggs. With 45-minute tours running daily at 8 AM and 3 PM, you'll get to see what goes into running a 200-year-old farm. For those seeking an extended experience, Hull-O Farms also provides family farm-stay vacations, where guests can stay overnight in a cozy farm guest house, fully immersing themselves in the sounds and sights of rural life. Reservations are required for all tours and stays, making this an unforgettable Catskills retreat. Visit Hull-O Farms.
Hawthorne Valley Farm- Ghent, NY
A tour at Hawthorne Valley Farm combines education with environmental stewardship. Situated on a 900-acre biodynamic farm, Hawthorne Valley's tours highlight their commitment to regenerative agriculture. By appointment, visitors can learn about the holistic farming practices that make this farm USDA certified organic and Animal Welfare Approved. Guests can see everything from vegetable gardens to grain fields and learn how the farm's operations supply their farm store with fresh foods. With a strong educational focus, Hawthorne Valley emphasizes the connection between people, animals, and the land. Tours are approximately 50 minutes long, and reservations should be made at least a week in advance. Visit Hawthorne Valley Farm.
Lamb Farms - Oakfield, NY
Lamb Farms is a large, family-operated dairy farm that welcomes both school groups and families to explore their operations. The highlight of their tours is the carousel milking parlor, where visitors can watch cows being milked from a special viewing area. Kids will love petting the calves and seeing the barns up close. Lamb Farms has grown significantly over the past 50 years, now housing 2,400 cows across 8,500 acres. Visitors love seeing how such a large operation maintains high standards of cow comfort, quality milk production, and sustainable practices like converting manure into green energy with a methane digester. To schedule a guided tour, just complete a form on their website at least 5 days in advance. Visit Lamb Farms.
New York's dairy farms offer unique insights into the life and work that sustains the dairy industry and our daily enjoyment of fresh milk and other products. From feeding calves to learning about sustainable practices, these farm tours are not only educational but also a memorable adventure for families. Keep checking back, as we'll be adding more family-friendly farms to explore across New York, each with its own charm and hands-on experiences. Ready to plan your next farm day? Start by booking a tour at one of these wonderful dairy farms and enjoy a day of learning, fun, and fresh air!