So you’re looking for the best petting zoos in Fort Collins, Colorado to visit with your family? Smart move!
There’s nothing quite like watching your kiddo’s face light up when they pet a fuzzy goat for the first time or feed a gentle bunny. Fort Collins and the surrounding Northern Colorado area offer some truly amazing spots where your little ones can get up close and personal with adorable farm animals—and honestly, it’s just as much fun for us adults too.
Whether you’re a Fort Collins local or just passing through the Choice City, this guide will help you find the perfect petting zoo experience for your crew.
We’re talking everything from permanent farms with pony rides to mobile petting zoos that’ll come right to your backyard party. Let’s dive in!
Why Petting Zoos Are Perfect for Fort Collins Families
Before we get into the where, let’s chat about the why.
Fort Collins is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine a year, which makes it absolutely perfect for outdoor family activities like visiting petting zoos. But beyond just being a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon, petting zoos offer some seriously cool benefits for kids.
Educational Value That Doesn’t Feel Like School
When your kids interact with farm animals, they’re learning about biology, animal behavior, and where food comes from—all without realizing they’re getting a lesson. They’ll discover that chickens lay eggs, cows need grass to produce milk, and goats have the weirdest (yet coolest!) rectangular pupils. This hands-on learning experience sticks with them way better than any textbook ever could.
Building Empathy and Compassion
Petting zoos teach kids to be gentle, patient, and caring with animals. When your child learns to approach a shy bunny slowly or realizes that the chickens don’t like being chased, they’re developing emotional intelligence and empathy that extends far beyond the barnyard, a reminder that petting animals is good for mental health for all ages. Plus, learning to follow rules like “don’t feed the animals without permission” teaches responsibility and respect for living creatures.
Great for Physical and Social Development
Chasing after a playful lamb, walking to different animal pens, and even just squatting down to pet a guinea pig all contribute to physical activity. And when siblings or friends visit together, they learn teamwork, sharing, and communication as they take turns feeding the goats or discussing which animal is their favorite.
The Farm at Lee Martinez Park: Fort Collins’ Gem
Let’s start with the crown jewel of petting zoos in Fort Collins—The Farm at Lee Martinez Park. This place has been providing hands-on family fun since 1985 and is basically a Fort Collins institution.
What You’ll Find
Located at 600 N Sherwood St, this family-friendly farm features a variety of farm animals including cattle, horses, sheep, goats, chickens, and hogs. The best part? It’s a real working farm right in the middle of the city, which means your kids get an authentic agricultural experience without having to drive out to the countryside.
Hours and Admission
The Farm operates on a seasonal schedule:
- November 1 – March 31: Wednesday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm
- April 1 – October 31: Wednesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
- June-August: Also open Tuesdays 10am-5pm
Admission is super affordable at just $5 for ages 2 and up (under 2 are free). Seriously, where else can you entertain your kids for five bucks these days?
Don’t Miss the Pony Rides
One of the highlights is the pony rides, available on weekends from April through October:
- Saturdays: 11am-3pm
- Sundays: 12pm-3pm
- Cost: $8 per ride (maximum weight 150 lbs)
Your little cowpoke will get to ride for up to 10 minutes with an adult leading them. It’s the perfect activity for kids who dream of being horse riders!
What Makes It Special
Beyond the animals, The Farm features antique farm equipment, hands-on activities, and interactive displays about agriculture. There’s also a museum and farm store where you can grab souvenirs. Plus, you can schedule hayrides in advance for an extra-special experience.
The playground at Lee Martinez Park next door is also fantastic, with ziplines, a playhouse, and scavenger hunt elements, so you can easily make it a full-day adventure.
Insider Tips
According to visitor reviews, the farm is best visited in spring and summer when all activities are running. Some reviewers note that it’s a smaller farm, which actually makes it perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who might get overwhelmed at larger attractions. Weekend mornings tend to be less crowded than afternoons.
Mobile Petting Zoos Serving Fort Collins
Can’t make it to a farm? No problem! Several mobile petting zoos serve the Fort Collins area and will bring the barnyard experience right to you.
Two By Two Petting Zoo
Based in Eaton (just a short drive from Fort Collins), Two By Two Petting Zoo is a popular mobile option that brings the farm to your event. They’re dedicated to educating the public about farm animals through hands-on experience in a safe, controlled environment.
Their collection includes goats, chickens, rabbits, llamas, a donkey, and more. This is perfect for hosting a memorable birthday party, school events, or community gatherings.
Ellie’s Little Farm
Another fantastic mobile option is Ellie’s Little Farm, based in Windsor, CO. They bring their traveling petting zoo to parties, homes, businesses, schools, daycare events, and retirement homes throughout the Fort Collins and Windsor area.
They even offer live animal photography sessions, which is such a cool way to capture memories of your little one with adorable farm animals. Talk about Instagram-worthy content!
Little Angels Pony And Pals
For something extra special, check out Little Angels Pony And Pals in Wellington. They’re one of Northern Colorado’s most established mobile pony services and can bring ponies and miniature donkeys to your event in Fort Collins or anywhere in Larimer County.
What’s really fun is that they offer themed pony rides (unicorn, Wild West, floral, or seasonal holidays) and include a decorating bag with brushes, combs, bows, and ribbons so kids can style their new four-legged friend. Rates start at \$450 for 60 minutes.
Nearby Petting Zoo Experiences Worth the Short Drive
If you’re willing to venture a bit beyond Fort Collins city limits, there are some amazing options in the surrounding Northern Colorado area.
Anderson Farms in Erie
About 45 minutes south of Fort Collins, Anderson Farms is Colorado’s largest fall family entertainment destination. While it’s primarily known as a pumpkin patch and corn maze, they also have a wonderful petting zoo experience.
You can meet goats, alpacas, chickens, and even a buffalo. The farm also features a third-party vendor who offers enhanced petting zoo access for \$5 where you can actually enter the pen to pet and feed the animals.
What to Know: Anderson Farms is seasonal, typically open from late September through October. Admission covers many activities, though some (like the petting zoo) cost extra. It’s worth noting that this is a larger, more commercial operation, so expect crowds on weekends during peak pumpkin season.
Bee Family Centennial Farm Museum
Located at 4320 E County Rd 58 in Fort Collins, the Bee Family Centennial Farm Museum offers a unique combination of history and hands-on farm experiences.
You’ll find horses, lambs, chickens, cattle, and more. The museum is only open May through October on Fridays and Saturdays from 9am-4pm. Entrance fees range from \$4-\$8 depending on age.
What makes this spot special is the educational component—kids can participate in activities like washing clothes on a washboard, grinding corn for chickens, and learning about irrigation. It’s a journey through time that shows how farming shaped Northern Colorado.
Osborn Farm in Loveland
Just south in Loveland, Osborn Farm has been family-owned since 1861. This centennial farm is primarily a pumpkin patch open during fall season, but they also offer a petting zoo experience on weekends.
The petting zoo costs \$2 per visitor (cash only), with all proceeds going to 4H and Loveland kids’ activities. It’s open during their fall season from late September through October, daily from 10am-6pm. They also offer hayrides and barrel trains on weekends.
Laughing Buck Farm
Located at 3724 N Co Rd 13 in Fort Collins, Laughing Buck Farm is a woman-owned working farm that offers various programs including farm tours and therapeutic riding.
They have horses, pigs, chickens, goats, and bees, plus a great garden. While they focus more on camps and lessons, they do offer farm tours and special events throughout the year. It’s worth checking their schedule for open farm days.
What to Bring and Wear to Fort Collins Petting Zoos
Okay, so you’ve picked your petting zoo destination. Now what? Here’s how to prepare for the best experience by reviewing what to wear and bring to a petting zoo.
Dress for Success (and Mess!)
- Closed-toe shoes are a must. Sneakers or hiking boots work great. Animals can accidentally step on little toes, and farms often have prickly areas.
- Comfortable, casual clothes you don’t mind getting dirty—think jeans and a t-shirt. Farm animals shed, drool, and sometimes have muddy feet.
- Layer up: Fort Collins weather can change quickly, especially in spring and fall. A denim jacket or light hoodie is perfect for cooler mornings that warm up by afternoon.
- Sun protection: With over 300 days of sunshine, bring a hat and sunscreen, especially during summer visits.
- Weather-appropriate gear: Pack rain gear in summer (afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August), or warm layers in winter.
What to Pack
- Hand sanitizer and wipes: While soap and water is best, having sanitizer on hand helps for quick cleanups.
- Water bottles and snacks: Keep these separate from animal areas and only consume in designated eating zones.
- Camera: You’ll want to capture those adorable moments!
- Extra change of clothes for little ones (trust me on this one).
- Stroller: Most Fort Collins petting zoos are stroller-friendly, but you may want to park it outside animal pens.
Leave at Home or in the Car
- Pacifiers, toys, and bottles when in animal areas
- Food you plan to share with animals (only use provided feed)
Safety Tips for Visiting Petting Zoos with Kids
While petting zoos are generally very safe, it’s wise to review a few key petting zoo safety rules before you go.
The Golden Rule: Hand Washing
Wash hands with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds after touching animals or leaving animal areas—even if your child didn’t actually pet anything. This is THE most important thing you can do to prevent illness. Most Fort Collins petting zoos have handwashing stations right on-site.
Supervise Young Children Closely
Kids under 5 need constant supervision. Little ones tend to put their hands in their mouths and don’t have the best understanding of gentle touch yet. Consider carrying very young children through animal areas as an extra precaution.
Teach Gentle Approaches
Show your kids how to approach animals calmly and quietly. Sudden movements and loud noises can startle animals. And while it might be tempting, remind kids not to chase the chickens or try to hug animals that are trying to walk away.
Keep Hands Away from Faces
This is tough with little ones, but remind them repeatedly not to touch their eyes, nose, or mouth until after they’ve washed their hands. No thumb-sucking or nail-biting at the petting zoo!
Respect the Rules
Follow all posted signs and staff instructions. If a sign says don’t feed certain animals or don’t enter a specific area, there’s a good safety reason for it.
Best Times to Visit Fort Collins Petting Zoos
Seasonal Sweet Spots
Fort Collins’ climate makes it great for petting zoo visits almost year-round, but spring and summer are prime time:
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures range from 45-65°F. This is baby animal season at many farms! You might see lambs, chicks, and other adorable newborns. Just be aware that March and April can still bring occasional snow.
- Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny with highs in the 80s. Perfect weather, but remember those afternoon thunderstorms can pop up in July and August. Morning visits are your best bet.
- Fall (September-November): Stunning weather with highs in the 60s-70s and gorgeous autumn colors. Many farms add pumpkin patches and hay rides during this season. October is absolutely magical.
- Winter (December-February): The Farm at Lee Martinez Park stays open with reduced hours. Bundle up—temps can drop below freezing—but you’ll have the place practically to yourself!
Time of Day
Visit early in the day when animals are most active and crowds are smaller. Weekday mornings are often the quietest times. If you’re going for pony rides at The Farm, plan around those specific weekend hours (11am-3pm Saturdays, 12pm-3pm Sundays).
Making the Most of Your Visit
Here are some pro tips from this Fort Collins parent to maximize your petting zoo adventure:
Plan Around Naptime
If you’ve got toddlers or preschoolers, time your visit for when they’re well-rested and fed. A hangry, tired kid won’t enjoy even the cutest baby goats.
Set Expectations
Talk to your kids beforehand about what they’ll see and do. Some children can be nervous around larger animals, so prep them that horses and cows are big but gentle.
Take Your Time
Don’t rush through. Let your kids really observe the animals, ask questions, and process the experience. The beauty of smaller spots like The Farm at Lee Martinez Park is that it’s not overwhelming.
Combine with Other Activities
Make it a full day! The Farm at Lee Martinez Park is right next to an amazing playground and the Poudre River Trail. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the nearby picnic areas after your farm visit.
Consider a Membership or Season Pass
If you live locally and plan to visit often, ask about any membership options or multi-visit passes that might save you money.
Why Fort Collins is Perfect for Petting Zoo Adventures
Beyond just the specific petting zoos, Fort Collins itself is an ideal place for this kind of family activity. The city has a strong agricultural heritage—it’s surrounded by working farms and ranches—so there’s real authenticity to these experiences.
The community values education, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly activities, which is why places like The Farm at Lee Martinez Park have been supported for nearly 40 years. Plus, Fort Collins’ commitment to maintaining parks, trails, and natural areas means you can easily combine a petting zoo visit with hiking, biking, or playground time.
The city’s semi-arid climate with 300+ days of sunshine means you’re rarely rained out, and the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains makes every outing feel a bit more special.
Final Thoughts: Creating Memories at Fort Collins Petting Zoos
At the end of the day, visiting the best petting zoos in Fort Collins, Colorado isn’t just about checking another activity off your weekend to-do list. It’s about watching your child’s eyes widen with wonder when a goat gently nibbles pellets from their palm. It’s about hearing their delighted giggles when a chicken pecks near their feet. It’s about creating those precious childhood memories that they (and you!) will treasure for years to come.
Whether you choose the educational experience at The Farm at Lee Martinez Park, bring a mobile zoo to your next birthday party, or venture out to one of the nearby farms in Northern Colorado, you’re giving your kids a gift that goes way beyond entertainment. You’re teaching them compassion, curiosity, and connection to the natural world.
So grab some hand sanitizer, put on those closed-toe shoes, pack your sense of adventure, and head out to explore Fort Collins’ wonderful petting zoo options. Your kids are going to love it—and honestly, you might find yourself having just as much fun. There’s just something magical about spending time with gentle farm animals on a sunny Colorado day.
Happy petting zoo adventures, Fort Collins families! 🐐🐰🐴
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is appropriate for a first visit to a petting zoo in Fort Collins?
Pets are typically welcome for children as young as six months, though infants should be supervised closely. Most staff suggest that children aged 2 and up can safely engage in feeding and gentle petting, while older kids enjoy the more interactive programs and educational workshops.
Are there any restrictions on food or drink inside the petting zoo areas?
Outside food and drinks are generally permitted in designated picnic zones, but not inside animal enclosures to maintain hygiene. Many zoos encourage visitors to bring snacks and water, and they provide on‑site vendors for treats like popcorn, cotton candy, and fresh fruit.
Can groups schedule private events or school field trips at the petting zoos?
Yes, most petting zoos in Fort Collins accommodate private parties, school tours, and corporate outings. Advanced reservation is required, and group rates vary based on size and desired activities. Planners should contact the zoo’s events coordinator to customize itineraries, arrange additional educational components, and secure any needed permits.
