Photo: Hassaan Idrees
Photo: Amy Arpan
Photo: Heather Tenison
Schweiger Ranch
★4.7(84 reviews)$$Farm
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. Preschoolers love meeting chickens, goats, and other barnyard animals, while elementary-aged kids thrive with the hands-on farm chores, trail exploration, and historical exhibits. Toddlers can enjoy the experience but may need extra supervision around animals.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Schweiger Ranch offers an authentic working ranch experience where kids can step back in time while getting their hands dirty with real farm activities. This hidden gem in Highlands Ranch features historic buildings dating back to the 1800s, friendly farm animals to meet, and educational programs that teach children about Colorado's agricultural heritage in the most engaging way possible.
Highlights
- ✓Meeting and feeding friendly farm animals including chickens, goats, and sheep
- ✓Exploring authentic 1870s pioneer buildings and homestead structures
- ✓Walking scenic nature trails through prairie grasslands
- ✓Hands-on educational programs teaching farm chores and pioneer life skills
- ✓Learning about Colorado ranching history through interactive exhibits
Pro Tips
- 1.Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty - this is a real working ranch with mud, hay, and animal encounters
- 2.Visit on weekday mornings during educational program times to see the ranch at its most active and interactive
- 3.Bring water bottles and sun protection as much of the ranch is outdoors with limited shade
- 4.Check their website for special seasonal programs like sheep shearing demonstrations, harvest festivals, or pioneer craft workshops
- 5.The historic buildings offer great photo opportunities - don't miss the original homestead cabin
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather and peak programming. Visit on weekday mornings (9-11am) when educational groups are active, or Saturday mornings for special family programs. Avoid hot summer afternoons as there's limited shade on the property.
What to Know
The ranch offers both free self-guided exploration and ticketed educational programs. Parking is free in the small lot on Havana Street. Bring your own snacks and water as there are no food vendors on-site.
Seasonal Notes
The ranch is most active spring through fall (April-October) with full programming. Winter visits are possible but limited, with some outdoor areas weather-dependent. Special events include spring lambing season, summer harvest activities, and fall pumpkin programs. Always check their schedule before visiting as hours vary seasonally.
Nearby Eats
Head to nearby Park Meadows Mall (10 minutes away) for numerous family-friendly options including Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread, or try Old Chicago in Highlands Ranch for pizza and a relaxed atmosphere with kids' menus.
More Activities Near Highlands Ranch
Museum
Highlands Ranch Mansion
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Step back in time at this beautifully preserved historic mansion that brings Colorado's ranching heritage to life for curious kids. The Highlands Ranch Mansion offers engaging family-friendly tours through elegant Victorian rooms and sprawling grounds where children can imagine life on a working cattle ranch in the late 1800s.
Nature
Backcountry Wilderness Area Horse Corrals
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Backcountry Wilderness Area Horse Corrals offers families an authentic Colorado outdoor experience with over 3,000 acres of scenic trails perfect for hiking and biking adventures. The open space provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities where kids can spot deer, birds, and other native animals while exploring the beautiful natural landscape of Highlands Ranch.
Park
Coyote Ridge Natural Area
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Coyote Ridge Natural Area offers families over 600 acres of pristine Colorado landscapes perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventure. With well-maintained trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, children can explore native grasslands, spot wildlife like deer and prairie dogs, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Front Range mountains without the overwhelming crowds of busier hiking destinations.
Playground
Redstone Park
★4.5Free❤️57
Redstone Park is a sprawling community hub in Highlands Ranch that truly has something for every family member. With its impressive playground equipment, skate park, multiple sports fields, and shaded picnic areas, it's the perfect spot for families who want variety in one location,whether your kids want to burn energy on the playground or practice their skateboarding skills.