Best Family-Friendly Farms to Visit in Sonoma County: flower Picking, Wine Country Fun & More
Looking for authentic agricultural experiences that will delight both kids and adults? Sonoma County's working farms offer the perfect blend of education, entertainment, and fresh air that busy families crave. From seasonal fruit picking to meeting farm animals, these family-friendly destinations provide memories that last long after you've returned to the city.
Cassidy Ranch - Sonoma
Perfect for: Active families seeking diverse outdoor activities
Cassidy Ranch offers a unique combination of agricultural experiences and recreational activities that make it a standout destination for families. During strawberry season (typically May through July), children can pick their own berries while learning about sustainable farming practices. The ranch also features beautiful flower fields perfect for Instagram-worthy family photos and teaching kids about different varieties of blooms. The adults can then sit and enjoy a tasting of their wines.
What sets Cassidy Ranch apart is their pickleball courts, making it an ideal spot for multi-generational visits where parents can enjoy a game while kids explore the farm. The combination of physical activity and agricultural education creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to different interests within the family.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for optimal flower and fruit seasons
Oak Hill Farm - Glen Ellen
Perfect for: Families wanting structured learning experiences
Oak Hill Farm transforms Saturday visits into educational adventures with their weekly farmstand in the Red Barn and their monthly guided tours (typically held on the first Saturday of each month) provide in-depth looks at sustainable farming practices, seasonal crops, and the farm-to-table process that Sonoma County is famous for.
Tara Firma Farms - Petaluma
Perfect for: Animal-loving families seeking authentic farm experiences
Tara Firma Farms welcomes guests to its farm and farm store Sundays through Fridays, offering chances to see chickens and pigs, with kids particularly thrilled by baby animals like piglets and chicks. This sustainable farm provides both self-guided and guided tours by appointment, allowing families to explore at their own pace or dive deeper with expert explanations.
The farm's Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Program and its over 700 active members demonstrate the community's dedication to local food. Families can visit the farm store, meet heritage pigs and chickens, and learn about regenerative farming practices. The hands-on approach helps children understand where their food comes from while supporting local agriculture.
Best Time to Visit: Sunday through Friday, 11am-5pm (closed Saturdays)
McClelland's Dairy Farm - Petaluma
Perfect for: Families fascinated by dairy production
From spring until the end of October, visitors can book family-friendly farm tours that provide an inside look at McClelland's Dairy Farm, where guests can pet baby cows, see the milking process, and even learn to milk a cow by hand. These 1.5-hour tours require reservations but offer an immersive experience that urban kids rarely encounter.
The educational component is exceptional, with demonstrations of both traditional and modern dairy farming techniques. Children learn about animal care, nutrition, and the journey from cow to carton. The hands-on milking experience is often the highlight for young visitors, creating stories they'll share for years.
Best Time to Visit: Spring through October, tours by reservation only
Seasonal Farm Events Throughout Sonoma County
Sonoma County Farm Trails offers its annual Blossoms, Bees & Barnyard Babies event on weekend days in May, where farm hosts offer tours, activities, demonstrations, animal petting, crafts for kids, and more. This county-wide celebration showcases multiple farms simultaneously, making it perfect for families who want to experience several locations in one weekend.
The fall harvest season brings apple picking opportunities at various orchards throughout the county, while summer offers berry picking at multiple locations. Many farms also participate in the annual Gravenstein Apple Fair, a beloved local tradition that combines agriculture with community celebration.
Tips for Planning Your Farm Adventure
Timing is Everything: Most farms are busiest on weekends, so consider weekday visits for a more intimate experience. Early morning visits often provide the best animal interactions before the heat of the day.
Dress Appropriately: Closed-toe shoes are essential, and clothes that can get dirty are recommended. Layers work well since farm microclimates can vary significantly.
Bring Supplies: Reusable bags for any produce you purchase, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Many farms have limited shade, so hats are wise.
Engage with Farmers: Don't hesitate to ask questions. Local farmers are typically passionate about their work and love sharing knowledge with curious families.
Respect the Environment: Stay on designated paths, follow all posted rules, and teach children to be gentle with animals and plants.
Plan for Weather: Sonoma County weather can change quickly. Check forecasts and have backup indoor activities planned.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Consider extending your farm visits into broader educational experiences. Pack a picnic to enjoy on-site (where permitted), bring field journals for kids to document their observations, or plan to purchase fresh ingredients for a farm-to-table dinner that evening.
Many farms also offer seasonal workshops, summer camps, or special events that can turn a single visit into an ongoing relationship with local agriculture. These deeper connections help children develop appreciation for farming and environmental stewardship while supporting the local agricultural community that makes Sonoma County special.
Whether you're visiting from the city or exploring your own backyard, Sonoma County's family-friendly farms offer authentic experiences that connect children to the source of their food while creating lasting memories in California's beautiful wine country.