Remember that feeling?
It’s a sunny Saturday morning, the kids are full of energy, and you think, “Let’s do something fun today!”
The idea of a petting zoo comes to mind—a place for laughter, learning, and making memories.
But then the questions start: Which one is nearby? Is it good for toddlers? Is it stroller-friendly? What are the hours? Can we bring our own snacks?
Suddenly, a simple, fun idea turns into an hour of frustrating online searches, piecing together information from a dozen different websites.
We’ve been there.
And that’s exactly why Petting Zoo was born.
Our Story: From a Parent’s Problem to a Passion Project
Like many of you, my favorite days are the ones spent exploring with my family.
I believe that connecting with animals is a magical experience for children, fostering empathy, curiosity, and a love for nature.
Petting zoos are the perfect gateway to these hands-on adventures.
But I grew tired of the “information hunt.”
I wanted one reliable place where I could find everything a parent actually needs to know before packing the car.
I didn’t just want a name and an address; I wanted to know about parking, changing table locations, the best times to see the animals, and whether my energetic three-year-old would have a safe space to run around.
When I couldn’t find it, I decided to build it.
Our Mission: Making Family Adventures Simple
Our goal is “simple”: To be the most comprehensive, reliable, and parent-trusted resource for finding petting zoos and family-friendly farms across the United States.
We’re dedicated to taking the stress out of planning so you can focus on what truly matters: making wonderful, lasting memories with your children.
What Makes Us Different? It’s All in the Details
We’re more than just a list.
We’re a directory built by parents, for parents.
For every petting zoo, we strive to provide the details that make or break a family outing:
- Verified Location & Hours: We work to keep our information current, so you don’t show up to a closed gate.
- Parent-Centric Amenities: We detail crucial info like stroller/wagon accessibility, restroom availability, and changing stations.
- Pricing & Ticketing: Clear, upfront information on admission costs and where to buy tickets.
- The Animal Experience: What animals can you meet? Are there feeding opportunities or educational talks?
- Food & Drink Policies: Can you bring a picnic? Is there a café on-site?
- Insider Tips: We include helpful hints from our own experience and other parents, like the best time to visit to avoid crowds or what to wear.
Join Our Community
This directory is a living, breathing resource that grows with the help of parents like you.
- Spotted a new petting zoo?
- Have an updated tip for an existing one?
- Just want to share a photo from your latest adventure?
Please, contact us!.
Together, we can make this the best family adventure tool in the country.
Thank you for being here.
Now, go find your next adventure!
Happy exploring,
Petting Zoo
