Kid-Favorite Petting Farms & Zoos Near DC
Animal-loving kids will have a wild time at these petting farms, zoos and aquariums near Washington DC. Check the map to see which ones are close to you! Kids can touch and feed animals, discover exotic species, and learn more about local wildlife on a trip to these family favorite spots.
Add reviews below for your favorite DC petting farms and zoos to share your tips with other parents!
Georges Mill Farm
Kelly R: Each spring, families can play with the baby goats at this artisan cheese farm. It's free during the week, or book an appointment for bottle feeding or a private weekend snuggle session.
Leesburg Animal Park
Kelly R: Kids can enjoy up-close experiences with an animal feeding and petting farm, pony rides and animal shows. Leesburg Animal Park is also home to exotic animals like zebras, monkeys and sloths.
Frying Pan Farm Park
Kelly R: A working 1930s farm welcomes kids to visit with horses, peacocks, rabbits, sheep, cows and pigs. In addition to petting animals, wander around to check out antique farm equipment, take a wagon ride, see cow milking demonstrations and chat with the farm hands.
Green Meadows Petting Farm
Kelly R: Allow plenty of time to experience all this petting farm near DC has to offer, including up-close interaction with over 200 animals, pig races, animal feeding, hayrides and play areas.
Glen Echo Park Aquarium
Kelly R: This local gem teaches about the marine life in and around the Chesapeake Bay! Spend an hour exploring the collection of animal exhibits, a sand pit, and a touch tank where kids can meet horseshoe crabs, snails and more.
Smithsonian's National Zoo
Kelly R: For such an impressive array of animals (including some of the only pandas in the US), it's hard to believe this beloved DC zoo is free. Families looking for a hands-on zoo experience can visit a petting farm that's home to cows, alpacas, goats and more.
Primary photo: Matthew Halmshaw on Unsplash
Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.
