Photo: Jay Schimke
Photo: Frank Chambers
Photo: Jay Schimke
Summers Past Farms
★4.8(410 reviews)$$Farm
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 2-10. Toddlers and preschoolers love the farm animals and sensory experience of touching herbs and flowers, while elementary-aged kids enjoy exploring the various themed garden rooms and learning about plants. Teens may find it less engaging unless they're interested in gardening or photography.🧡 Saved by 17 families
About
Summers Past Farms is a delightful step back in time where kids can explore enchanting themed gardens, meet friendly farm animals, and experience the charm of a working historic farm. This hidden gem in El Cajon offers a peaceful escape from city life with its winding paths through herb gardens, whimsical decorations, and hands-on opportunities to connect with nature and agriculture.
Highlights
- ✓Meeting friendly farm animals including chickens and rabbits
- ✓Exploring whimsical themed garden rooms filled with fragrant herbs and flowers
- ✓Hands-on sensory experience touching and smelling lavender, rosemary, and other aromatic plants
- ✓Charming gift shop with locally-made products, herbs, and unique treasures kids can help pick out
- ✓Seasonal events and workshops throughout the year including holiday celebrations
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday mornings right when they open at 9 AM for the coolest temperatures and quietest experience, perfect for letting kids explore freely
- 2.Bring cash for the gift shop as they may have limited card payment options, and plan to purchase some lavender products or herbs to plant at home as a learning extension
- 3.Wear closed-toe shoes and sun protection as you'll be walking through gardens with uneven terrain and limited shade in some areas
- 4.Let kids bring a small notebook to do a garden scavenger hunt,counting different types of herbs, spotting butterflies, or sketching flowers they discover
- 5.The farm is small and intimate, so it's perfect for combining with another activity in East County rather than making it a full day destination
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) offers the most blooms and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploration. Visit Thursday through Saturday mornings between 9-11 AM to avoid afternoon heat and have a more peaceful experience before it gets busier on weekends.
What to Know
This is a small, boutique farm experience with free admission (purchases optional in the gift shop). Parking is available on-site but limited. There are no food services available, so plan accordingly, and the rustic terrain may be challenging for large strollers.
Seasonal Notes
The farm is especially beautiful during spring bloom season (March-May) and hosts special events during holidays including Easter egg hunts and fall harvest celebrations. Summer visits can be hot, so go early in the day. The farm is closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday year-round.
Nearby Eats
Head to The Sycuan Casino's Café Oso (10 minutes away) for familiar kid favorites in a casual setting, or try Main Street Café in downtown El Cajon (12 minutes) for classic American comfort food with a kids menu and friendly atmosphere.
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