Photo: Elawa Farm Foundation
Photo: Michael Delott
Photo: John Nash
Elawa Farm Foundation
★4.7(81 reviews)$Farm
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours for a general visit; half-day or full-day for special events or programs👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love petting and feeding the friendly farm animals, while elementary-aged kids enjoy the more structured educational programs, gardening activities, and summer camps that dive deeper into farm life and sustainability.🧡 Saved by 5 families
About
Elawa Farm Foundation offers an authentic farm experience right in Lake Forest, where kids can get up close with barnyard animals, learn about sustainable agriculture, and participate in hands-on activities. This educational working farm combines animal encounters with seasonal programs and camps that teach children where their food comes from in a fun, interactive environment.
Highlights
- ✓Hands-on animal feeding and petting with chickens, goats, sheep, and pigs
- ✓Educational programs teaching sustainable farming and gardening practices
- ✓Seasonal activities including pumpkin picking, hayrides, and spring baby animal visits
- ✓Summer camp programs offering immersive week-long farm experiences
- ✓Beautiful grounds perfect for exploring and learning about nature
Pro Tips
- 1.Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty,this is a working farm and kids will want to get hands-on with feeding and petting animals
- 2.Visit the on-site farmers market (seasonal) to pick up fresh produce and let kids see the farm-to-table connection firsthand
- 3.Check their website for special seasonal events like pumpkin patches, egg hunts, and harvest festivals which offer extra activities beyond regular farm visits
- 4.Arrive early in the morning when animals are most active and the farm is less crowded, especially on weekends
- 5.Bring hand sanitizer and wipes, though hand-washing stations are available throughout the property
Best Time to Visit
Spring through fall offers the best experience with mild weather, baby animals in spring, and harvest activities in autumn. Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends. Summer camps run throughout June and July for extended experiences.
What to Know
Check the website for current admission prices and hours as they vary seasonally. The farm has ample free parking on-site, and while some snacks may be available at events, it's best to plan meals before or after your visit.
Seasonal Notes
Open seasonally from spring through fall with limited winter programming. Peak seasons are spring (baby animals) and fall (harvest festivals and pumpkin patch). Holiday events often include Easter egg hunts and fall harvest celebrations. Check their event calendar as hours vary by season.
Nearby Eats
Head to Egg Harbor Cafe in Lake Forest for kid-friendly breakfast and brunch options, or try Quiznos/Panera Bread nearby for quick, casual lunches that work well with children after your farm visit.
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