Where else can you find a working farm open daily for visitors just 45 minutes from downtown Washington, DC? Why, Frying Pan Park in Herndon, Virginia! Kidwell Farm, located on property, is a working 1930s style farm with horses, chickens, peacocks, sheep, and much much more. The Farm also contains 15 acres of crops, which are used to supply feed for the livestock and, if you are lucky and visiting in the spring, there are usually newborn lambs or pigs, nestled close to their mothers in the hay.
My youngest was able to get up close and personal with a horse on our last visit to Frying Pan Farm.
New spring lambs, born just a few days before our visit.
Making use of the conveniently located slats to peek at livestock.
Frying Pan Farm is not only an excellent place to expose kids to farm animals, but if you happen to be like us and live in the city far away from farmland, then it’s also a great opportunity for young kids to “ride” on tractors – something both my boys loved to experience as toddlers.
“Driving” his tractor.
There are no paved sidewalks or walking paths, so I do not recommend bringing strollers. Carriers are useful for young children who may get tired. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear (aka rain boots) if it is raining or has recently rained. There are no concessions on property, but you can absolutely pack a picnic to enjoy on site.
Frying Pan Park is located at 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, VA 20171 with Kidwell Farm open daily from 9am – 5pm. Parking and admission are both free, making this a perfect budget friendly family activity.
Be sure to check out our entire category of posts on things to do and places to visit in Washington, DC with kids! We are so lucky to call this place home and hope that our tips and tricks come in handy as you plan your own adventure in Washington, DC!
Every so often, we encounter a place that is so fabulous for those traveling with kids that it is worthy of being featured on its own. For more fun locations, please check out our other Spotlight features!
