Kid-Favorite Petting Farms & Zoos Near Columbus

Brittany Kozielski:  Mr. Tree Farm specializes in Christmas trees, garland and wreaths. While they are a tree farm. they do also have a petting zoo that sponsors many rescue animals. They will adopt these animals to the right families. Some of the great animals they have for petting are goats, ducklings, piglets, mini mules, a racehorse, a bunny and more.

Kelly R:  We were lucky to live just down the road from the Columbus Zoo for years, and I spent many hours there with my kids. It truly is a world class zoo with beautiful exhibits, many hands-on opportunities, and fun play areas sprinkled around. One of the essential things to do in Columbus with kids, whether you're a local or a visitor! I appreciate the convenient suburban location, so no navigating of city traffic is required, and you can see a lot without feeling like you're doing a ton of walking.

Kelly R:  In addition to tours of the impressive underground historical caverns, your family outing to Olentangy Indian Caverns can also include a petting zoo, mini golf, and gem mining. Interact with friendly animals in a 50,000 square foot area. Kids can get up close to deer, pygmy goats, mini Zebu pigs and more.

Kelly R:  Ohio Wildlife Center is dedicated to the rehabilitation of native Ohio mammals, birds, and reptiles, and educating the public about how to coexist with these animals. They offer a variety of opportunities for families to visit and learn more about Ohio's natural wildlife, meet animal ambassadors, and explore and observe nature.

Kelly R:  Part of the Metro Parks system, Slate Run Living Historical Farm allows you to experience an authentic 1880s Ohio farm. Volunteer staff members dress up in time-appropriate farm clothes while they complete daily chores like plowing the fields, milking cows and splitting wood. There are plenty of animals to observe (and sometimes touch), including pigs, geese, turkeys, cows, Percheron horses, and more.

Kelly R:  Stratford is an educational organic farm, and families can visit to explore the land, hike 4 miles of nature trails, check out the gardens and greenhouses, go fishing, and visit with the livestock (cows, goats, pigs, sheep, llamas, chickens, and more).

Kelly R:  Sunrise Sanctuary, Inc. is a non-profit organization that rescues and cares for farmed and companion animals who were abandoned, abused, or neglected. Visit during one of their Open Barn Days to meet the animals and learn from volunteers.

Katie G.:  Take a trip on a jungle safari right here in Ohio at The Wilds. Owned and operated by The Columbus Zoo, The Wilds is one of the largest wildlife conservation centers in the world. Visitors can board an open air tour bus as they roam through the park viewing animals in their natural habitats. Here you will find zebras, giraffes, ostriches, wild horses, antelope, white rhinos, cheetahs, camels, birds and more.