Northwestern Mutual

There appears to be a data mix-up here - Northwestern Mutual is actually a financial services company headquartered in downtown Milwaukee, not a farm or petting zoo. The interactive farm area with goats and farm animals you're looking for is likely the Northwestern Mutual Family Farm at the Milwaukee County Zoo, which is a separate location at 10001 W Bluemound Rd. The Family Farm is a wonderful hands-on experience where kids can pet and feed gentle farm animals in a safe, supervised environment.

• ✓Hands-on goat petting in a walk-through enclosure
• ✓Meeting friendly sheep, chickens, and rabbits
• ✓Learning about daily farm chores and animal care
• ✓Photo opportunities with barnyard animals
• ✓Educational displays about Wisconsin agriculture

1. 1.Visit the Family Farm earlier in the day when animals are most active and before afternoon heat makes them sleepy
2. 2.Bring hand sanitizer or plan to use the handwashing stations immediately after petting animals
3. 3.Check the zoo's daily schedule for special feeding times and keeper talks at the farm
4. 4.The farm can get crowded on weekends - weekday mornings offer the best one-on-one animal interaction
5. 5.Wear closed-toe shoes as you'll be walking through farm areas

Weekday mornings during spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather and smallest crowds. Animals are typically more active in cooler morning temperatures, making interactions more engaging for kids.

The Family Farm is included with Milwaukee County Zoo admission ($17.75 adults, $14.75 kids 3-12, free for 2 and under). The zoo has ample parking ($18) and multiple food options throughout the grounds.

The Family Farm is open seasonally from late April through October, weather permitting. It's closed during winter months. Summer can be hot with less shade, so spring and fall visits are most comfortable.

Within the zoo, try the Flamingo Café or Patio Restaurant for kid-friendly options like chicken tenders and pizza. Outside the zoo, Kopp's Frozen Custard (about 2 miles away) is a Milwaukee institution perfect for post-zoo treats.