Cincinnati is a wonderful city for families, with countless family-friendly destinations and events. I love taking my little ones on adventures throughout my favorite city and we’ve experienced quite a bit the past few years. But this past weekend, we took an hour drive (we live in NKY) to Warren County for a Chuck Wagon Dinner Ride at Bonnybrook Farms. While I enjoy all of our family excursions, this summertime experience may just now be at the top of our list.
Bonnybrook Farms is a family-owned property in Warren County in the town of Clarksville.
I originally heard of this farm when a friend of mine ran the Great Pumpkin Run there, and I’ve been anxious to take my children there ever since. Visiting farms and having some old-fashioned fun is our favorite way to spend time together as a family. I was hesitant about the long drive and curious if the event would meet my expectations, but I can tell you that the drive was well worth it and the wonderful farm and its staff exceeded any expectations I had.
The Chuck Wagon Dinner Ride takes place on Saturday evenings in the summer, and if you haven’t been, keep this event on your bucket list for next summer. The farm opens its barn doors and gorgeous property to visitors on these evenings and all of the fun is included in the price of your ticket. We arrived around 5 pm and immediately began exploring. My five-year-old and almost four-year-old were in heaven with so much open space and unique games and activities set up all over the property.
We had plenty of time to shoot some slingshots (our favorite!), play Clodhopper Golf (so cute!), and play on the playground (probably the most unique and best farm play area I’ve seen).
At 6:30 pm the dinner bell rang and we went to fix a plate of delicious food. The food at the farm was probably the biggest surprise – it was amazing! We enjoyed our meal on a picnic table overlooking the farm and then played a bit more until the wagons pulled up for the next part of the evening.
Wagons took us all on a long ride through the farm and the property, which is actually filled with interesting history. They came to a spot at an area along the creek that was set up with the chuck wagon and dessert buffet that included smores kits, cake, and ice cream. They even had hot coffee and drinks to go along with it. We roasted marshmallows and sat by the fire, and the kids loved checking out the creek and playing with the other children.
As much as I loved the overall concept of the event, I was most impressed with the attention to detail paid by the folks at the farm on every little thing about the property and the activities. They’ve thought of everything to make this a memorable family event, that’s really perfect for all ages. I often felt like I was walking through a Pinterest board of rustic farm décor, but yet it was obvious that we were still at a working farm. Everyone was extremely friendly and welcoming, and clearly loved hosting us at the farm.
There are many other chances to experience Bonnybrook Farms, in addition to their Chuck Wagon Dinner Rides. This fall, they’ll host Fall Farm Days, Saturdays and Sundays, September 29 & 30 through October 27 & 28. We will definitely be back for that! It’s also a beautiful event space for weddings, large gatherings, company picnics, and more. If you know someone who has dreamed of a barn wedding or event, send them to Bonnybrook!
Our trip to Bonnybrook Farms came with high expectations that were more than met. This picture-perfect property is an outdoor paradise for kids (and not a TV or iPad in sight!), and a relaxing place for parents to enjoy, as well. If you are looking to add something else to your Cincinnati-area Bucket List, you may consider moving a visit to Bonnybrook Farms to the top. It’s a fun-filled adventure in Warren County, and a must-try experience in Ohio’s largest playground.
About Andrea:
A native Cincinnatian, Andrea has experienced life in all four corners of this city. After growing up on the west side, she headed north to attend Miami University, then moved east to Hyde Park and now lives in Northern Kentucky with her family.
When she’s not playing trains and doing the “hot dog dance” as a stay-at-home mom to her two toddlers, Andrea is busy writing for Cincinnati (and, ahem, Kentucky!) publications and brainstorming ideas for her next children’s book! With a newfound passion for fitness and overall health, she spends a lot of time at her family gym and loves to play outside.
Andrea worked in education for several years and has a special love for children’s literature. She loves showing her children all our city has to offer and enjoys sharing her finds with other parents. Her favorite spots include the Cincinnati Zoo (although she steers clear of the bird house), her local library and any playground.
