Need to get the kids off the screens these school holidays? Why not spend the day outdoors on a working farm? Animal farms are one of the best outdoor activities for kids, giving them a hands-on introduction to farm animals and how to care for them. Let the kids run free and discover cute and cuddly llamas, baby rabbits, chicks, goats, miniature pigs and much more. With lots of fresh air and exercise to boot. Check out our top picks of the best animal farms for kids across Australia.
The Llama Farm, QLD
Embrace your inner llama farmer at The Llama Farm Ipswich, Queensland. A picturesque working farm on 80 acres, The Llama Farm is home to the largest, and possibly most loveable, llama herd in all of Queensland. Llamas are part of the camel family, known for their friendly nature and beautiful wool. You can take these cuddly creatures for a guided stroll around the farm, meet and pet the other farm animals and have a glimpse into how an authentic llama farm operates.
Where to stay
Enjoy a tranquil and peaceful stay at the Comfort Inn North Brisbane, with modern accommodation and a resort-style pool set amid tropical palm trees.
Hahndorf Farm Barn, SA
The hills are alive with the sound of happy animals – the Adelaide Hills that is – and you’ll find plenty at the Hahndorf Farm Barn. Combining the cuteness of friendly farm animals with the thrill of a wildlife park, here the kids can have a go at milking a cow, bottle feeding a calf or hand feeding a camel or donkey. Enjoy a gentle pony ride or take a guided tractor tour of the farm and meet the grazing animals out in the far paddocks.
Where to stay
After a big day at the Barn Farm Hahndorf, you’ll find plenty of places to stay in and around charming Hahndorf and Adelaide, from self-contained suites to well-appointed rooms set in idyllic gardens.
Myuna Farm, VIC
For one of the best animal farms in Melbourne, head to the historic Myuna Farm, Doveton. A working community and children’s farm in Melbourne’s south east, Myuna Farm has a long and fascinating history dating back to the early 1900s. Set alongside Dandenong Creek, amid river gums, wetlands and bird life, kids can cuddle baby animals, meet kangaroos and other native animals and learn more about Australian farming and sustainability.
Where to stay
Relax in modern, centrally-located accommodation near Myuna Farm, Melbourne at the Comfort Hotel Dandenong.
Yarralumla Play Station, ACT
A long-time family favourite, Yarralumla Play Station in Canberra offers an educational and engaging animal experience. Meet some of their cute farm friends such as miniature pigs, alpacas, ponies and lambs. All animals are locally sourced and hand-raised with lots of love and affection, making for an enjoyable and memorable animal experience. As an added bonus, the kids will love a ride on the miniature railway or a round of miniature golf.
Where to stay
In a great location perfect for exploring Canberra and the Yarralumla Playstation, the Quality Hotel Dickson has contemporary rooms close to nearby shops, cafes and restaurants.
Golden Ridge Animal Farm, NSW
The family-friendly Golden Ridge Animal Farm is one of the top animal farms in Sydney. Set in the beautiful Hills district, north of Sydney, the farm offers a hands-on and interactive farm visit experience. Take a self-guided walk around the property and get up close and friendly with lots of baby animals. You can visit the hens and collect eggs from the coop, milk the cows and hand-feed the baby lambs and kid goats. There are even motorised ride-on diggers in the digger zone for pint-sized tractor enthusiasts.
Where to stay
Base yourself in Sydney’s vibrant Inner West and enjoy comfortable and stylish accommodation at the Quality Inn Sunshine Haberfield.
