Hello, hello!
I don’t know about you, but for me, fall means pumpkins, farms and hayrides. And, wouldn’t you know — these things all come together at Parky’s Farm.
Parky’s Farm is open year round; however, I think fall is the time to go! This 122-acre farm is part of Winton Woods, which is the “headquarters” to Great Parks of Hamilton County guest services, administrative offices, rangers and naturalists. Winton Woods spans 2,555 acres in the Greenhills/Forest Park area, and has a campground, harbor, golf course, riding center and, of course, educational farm.
Parky’s Farm has it all: indoor and outdoor playgrounds, picnic shelters, a gorgeous garden, orchard and animals. On weekends, kids can take a pony ride; in the fall, there are tractor rides; and during the month of October, there’s a pumpkin patch and festive events.
Not surprisingly, my kids were most drawn to the animals, barns and farm equipment. On this particular afternoon, the barnyard was alive with the sights, sounds and smells of farm life. We got to see pigs, goats, ponies, horses, ducks, turkeys, llamas and alpacas!
One note of caution: Parky’s Farm is a real, working farm… so it’s muddy and messy. I’d strongly advise wearing socks and washable shoes! (Full disclosure: Harvey sat in goose droppings. Luckily, there were lots of bathrooms around!)
After a thorough exploration of the farm grounds, we headed to the playground. It’s got a unique, red barn design, and is a few stories tall! The older two had fun exploring (and jumping).
We had just missed the tractor rides — but the staff were kind enough to let my kids climb aboard the tractor and wagon.
Since it was such a gorgeous day, we didn’t venture inside the indoor Play Barn. This indoor play area is actually the inside of a barn, and is two-stories of farm-themed fun with soft, cushy flooring. We have been there before — it’s really fun for kids (just don’t forget to bring socks)!
Admission to Parky’s Farm is free with your Great Parks car pass (just $10/year — it also gets you into Glenwood Gardens — plus 20 other Great Parks in Hamilton County). Entry to Parky’s Playbarn will cost you $2.50 per child ages 2-12. Wagon rides are $2.50 per person, and are offered on the weekends and during special events. Pony rides are for kids under 4 feet, and are $3.00. Hours vary by season, so call before you go!
Parky’s Farm is located at 10073 Daly Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231.
