Barnyard Shenanigans 🐄

Friday, July 7, 2023

Who is ready for some barnyard shenanigans?

I come from a long line of farmers, loggers, police officers and engineers. It’s only natural that I have a soft spot for farm life. This past school year my class adopted a calf through the Discover Dairy program. We were blessed to work with Berning Acres, which is an amazing dairy farm and must visit.

So, break out those overalls and tall rubber boots. Whatever destination that you choose, I wish you and yours a “moo”velous time.

*See the Classroom Connection tab for details on Discover Dairy plus related reading & additional resources.

—Jenn

Field Trips for Families & Classrooms

Illinois Adventures

Berning Acres – East Dubuque, Illinois

My daughter and I had the distinct pleasure of visiting Berning Acres in June. We traveled a little over four hours (one way) on our adventure. Our visit was quite memorable. We played and bottle fed some calves; visited with the goats, sheep, chickens, ponies, and pigs; milked a cow (harder than it looks); and toured the farm. Before leaving, we ate some ice cream and took pictures. Our guide was informative and extremely personable. My daughter is still talking about the teeny, tiny, baby cows. We thank Berning Acres for their time and hospitality.

If you plan on visiting, click the link below to make your reservation in advance. Once on the website, you will notice there are numerous options to choose from.

Hoof It – Galena, Illinois

On our way to Berning Acres, we stopped at Hoof It for a quick hike with some goats. My daughter thought the idea was complete bananas. Summer is meant to explore and try new adventures. That was my selling pitch and I quickly won her over. Our morning hike was beyond entertaining. When we arrived, we were greeted by a small herd of goats wandering about eating leaves off of low plants. During the hike, which lasted about an hour, we stopped occasionally to take selfies and pictures of the goats. As we hiked, our guides were informative and most were personable.

If you plan on visiting, click the link below to make your reservation in advance. Once on the website, you will notice there are numerous options to choose from.

Kline Creek Farm – Wheaton, Illinois

My daughter’s Girls Scout Troop went ages ago. It’s wonderful place to visit with your family and class. Click the link below to check the schedule and secure a reservation.

Museum of Science & Industry – Chicago, Illinois

The Museum of Science & Industry in Chicago is a family favorite. Farm Tech: Growing Smarter is an interactive exhibit, where your budding farm enthusist can try their hand at milking a cow and “driving” a tractor. It’s truly a moo-velous time! Sorry I couldn’t resist one last pun.

Indiana Adventures

Fair Oaks Farm – Fair Oaks, Indiana

Fair Oak Farms is super family friendly and offers tours of a modern working dairy farm. Family passes are available to experience all the farm has to offer. While visiting the farm, make certain to visit the Cowfe & Ice Cream shop. I highly recommend the grilled cheese sandwich and fresh ice cream. So yummy! Plus, there is super cute merch available for purchase.

For those of you that are traveling, advance reservations at the Fairfield by Marriott is a must. Marriott describes the hotel as “a beautiful contemporary barn, this one-of-a-kind hotel is filled with custom art and upgrades all celebrating the American countryside of Fair Oaks Farms.” A great family getaway.

Iowa Adventures

John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum – Waterloo, Iowa

One last fun travel destination to explore the world of farming and tractors.

**Please note: At this time, I am not affiliated with the field trip destinations (wink, wink I would love the opportunity). Direct links are included for your convenience.

Adventure Recommendation

I am always ready for an adventure! Please post your recommendations below.