MSU Tollgate Farm and Education Center

MSU Tollgate Farm and Education Center offers families an authentic working farm experience right in Novi. Kids can meet friendly farm animals, explore nature trails, and participate in hands-on educational programs that teach about agriculture, sustainability, and the natural world. With seasonal events, garden tours, and workshops designed for young learners, it's an enriching outdoor destination where children can connect with nature and discover where their food comes from.

• ✓Meeting and petting farm animals including goats, sheep, chickens, and pigs
• ✓Exploring scenic nature trails through woods and meadows
• ✓Hands-on educational workshops about farming, gardening, and sustainability
• ✓Seasonal family events like pumpkin picking, maple syrup demonstrations, and harvest celebrations
• ✓Learning gardens with vegetables, herbs, and flowers that teach kids about growing food

1. 1.Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty,this is a working farm with muddy paths and hands-on animal interactions
2. 2.Check their website for special seasonal programs like maple sugaring in spring, summer camps, and fall harvest festivals which require advance registration
3. 3.Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more intimate experience with the animals and staff
4. 4.Bring a refillable water bottle and sunscreen, as much of your time will be spent outdoors with limited shade
5. 5.Don't miss the demonstration gardens near the barn,they're educational and often overlooked by visitors rushing to see the animals

Spring through fall (April-October) offers the best weather and most active farm programming. Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds, while Saturday mornings feature special educational demonstrations. Summer and early fall provide the fullest farm experience with gardens in bloom and peak animal activity.

Most outdoor areas are free to explore, though educational programs and special events have registration fees. Parking is free on-site. The facility is closed Sundays, and much of the experience is outdoors on natural terrain, so plan accordingly for stroller accessibility.

The farm is most active spring through fall with full programming. Winter visits are possible but limited, with some animals housed indoors. Popular seasonal events include spring maple sugaring, summer farm camps, fall harvest festivals with pumpkin activities, and holiday workshops. Check their calendar as many special programs require pre-registration and fill quickly.

Twelve Oaks Mall (just 5 minutes away) offers numerous family-friendly dining options including Cantoro Market & Trattoria and Bagger Dave's Burger Tavern, both with kids' menus and casual atmospheres perfect after a morning at the farm.