Looking for the perfect way to spend quality time with your family? The areas around Leawood, KS, offer a treasure trove of farms and petting zoos where kids and adults can get up close with nature and animals. From feeding goats to picking pumpkins, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
One of the crown jewels in the area, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, offers an immersive farm experience. Children can bottle-feed baby goats, ride ponies, and even go fishing in the pond. The farmstead also features more than 200 animals, gardens, and play areas. The hands-on activities provide fun and educational experiences, teaching kids about farm life and animal care.
Families can picnic under the shade of tall trees while watching peacocks strut by. The farmstead often hosts special events like ice cream socials and pumpkin patches, making each visit unique. With its sprawling grounds and myriad activities, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring.
Faulkner’s Ranch
Faulkner’s Ranch is a family-owned gem that offers a blend of farm life and entertainment. The petting farm allows kids to meet friendly animals like goats, sheep, and rabbits. Seasonal events like the Pumpkin Fest provide additional fun with hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin decorating stations.
The ranch also features a zip line and bounce houses, ensuring active kids have plenty to do. Parents will appreciate the live music and food options available on-site. It’s a one-stop destination for family fun, blending traditional farm experiences with modern amusements.
KC Pumpkin Patch
When autumn rolls around, KC Pumpkin Patch becomes a must-visit destination. Beyond the vast selection of pumpkins, the patch offers a petting zoo where kids can interact with farm animals. The venue includes activities like giant slides, train rides, and a zip line.
The atmosphere is festive, with seasonal decorations adding to the charm. Families can enjoy apple cider donuts and other treats while exploring the grounds. The patch provides a perfect backdrop for family photos, capturing memories that will last a lifetime.
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins offers a rich farm experience that changes with the seasons. In the fall, the farm opens up its fields for pumpkin picking and features a petting zoo with various animals. Kids can enjoy wagon rides, a giant jumping pillow, and corn bins.
The farm emphasizes sustainable practices, allowing visitors to learn about responsible farming. Fresh produce is available for purchase, allowing families to take a piece of the farm home. The friendly staff enhances the experience, making everyone feel welcome.
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm
Step back in time at the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, a historic site that offers more than just a petting zoo. Kids can meet horses, sheep, and chickens while learning about 19th-century farm life. The site features stagecoach rides, blacksmith demonstrations, and interactive exhibits.
The educational programs are engaging and informative, making history come alive for visitors. Seasonal events like the Wild West Show add extra excitement. It’s a unique blend of fun and learning that the whole family will appreciate.
Ernie Miller Nature Center
The Ernie Miller Nature Center offers an excellent opportunity for families interested in wildlife. While not a traditional petting zoo, the center allows visitors to observe animals like birds of prey, reptiles, and amphibians up close. Interactive displays and educational programs make it a hit with curious kids.
The nature trails provide a chance to explore the local ecosystem. Guided hikes and special events like night hikes add to the adventure. It’s a serene environment where families can connect with nature and learn about conservation.
Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
A visit to the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens offers different animal interactions. The gardens are home to various bird species and butterflies, providing a peaceful setting for wildlife observation. The Children’s Discovery Garden features interactive exhibits that engage young minds.
Seasonal events like the Luminary Walk and plant sales add variety to each visit. The well-maintained trails and picturesque landscapes make it a relaxing outing for the whole family. It’s a great place to instill a love of nature in children.
Lakeside Nature Center
Lakeside Nature Center is one of Missouri’s largest wildlife rehabilitation facilities. It is open to the public. Families can see animals native to the area, including eagles, hawks, and owls. The center also provides educational programs that teach kids about wildlife conservation and animal rehabilitation.
Interactive exhibits allow children to learn engagingly. The surrounding trails offer additional opportunities for exploration and bird-watching. It’s an educational experience combining fun and learning about the natural world.
Colonial Gardens
Colonial Gardens is more than just a garden center; it’s an agricultural destination. The petting farm features animals like alpacas, goats, and chickens. Seasonal events include apple picking and farm-to-table dinners, making it a versatile spot for family activities.
Workshops and educational programs are available for those interested in gardening and sustainable practices. The lush grounds and friendly staff make it a welcoming place for families. It’s an ideal spot to teach kids about where their food comes from.
Shatto Milk Company
While a bit unconventional, the Shatto Milk Company offers farm tours with a petting zoo experience. Families can see how a dairy farm operates and even try their hand at milking a cow. The tour ends with tasting their delicious, locally-produced milk and cheese.
Kids will enjoy meeting the farm animals and learning about dairy production. The experience is both fun and educational, providing insights into farm life. It’s a unique outing that offers something different from traditional petting zoos.
Fun Farm
Fun Farm is a seasonal attraction that offers a plethora of activities. From pumpkin patches to petting zoos, it’s packed with family-friendly fun. Kids can navigate corn mazes, enjoy hayrides, and interact with farm animals.
The farm also features a giant jumping pillow, zip lines, and slides. Special events like flashlight nights add an extra layer of excitement. It’s a place where laughter and joy are guaranteed.
Making Memories at Local Farms
Exploring these farms and petting zoos near Leawood, KS, provides countless opportunities for family bonding and education. Whether you’re feeding goats, picking pumpkins, or learning about wildlife, these experiences create lasting memories. So pack a picnic, gather the family, and set out for adventure and discovery.
In the midst of all this fun, don’t forget to consider your child’s educational journey. Crème de la Crème School offers a nurturing environment where learning and development go hand in hand. Schedule a tour today to see how we can contribute to your family’s growth.
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