Petting zoos in Como, Mississippi offer families a sweet, down-home way to connect with animals and enjoy the outdoors in a simple, friendly setting. Nestled in the heart of the Delta, Como might not be the first place that comes to mind for family attractions, but it quietly delivers charm and hands-on fun for little ones eager to meet goats, feed donkeys, and maybe even hug a piglet or two. These small, often locally run petting zoos bring joy without the crowds or sky-high prices. They’re perfect for a low-key Saturday or an impromptu birthday adventure. Families find themselves smiling more here. Why? Because petting zoos in Como, Mississippi aren’t about flashy rides or loud music—they’re about mud on boots, laughter in the barnyard, and kids learning names like “Wilbur” don’t just belong in storybooks.
Family Activities and What to Expect in Petting Zoos in Como, Mississippi
Visiting petting zoos in Como, Mississippi is about as real as childhood memories get. Kids aged 2 to 10 usually light up the most. Younger toddlers adore the gentle pacing of goats and the softness of bunny fur. Older kids enjoy interactive feeding stations and chasing friendly (but never too fast) barn cats around storage sheds. Most petting zoos are run out of family farms or ranch-style setups, so don’t expect concrete walkways or neon signs. Instead, look forward to gravel paths, wooden fences, and plenty of fresh air.
Here is why parents like it: supervision feels easy. Animals are often handled daily and trained with kids in mind. Shy calves? Sure. Bossy roosters? Also yes. But safety remains a priority. Fences are kept secure, animals routinely checked by locals with animal expertise, and staff members are usually close by to hand out feed cups or wipe tiny faces after an enthusiastic goat kiss.
Some farms also include extras. Think small playgrounds made from repurposed tractors. Or shaded picnic tables perfect for snack time. A few even keep honeybee displays or butterfly gardens nearby. Not big exhibits. More like friendly reminders that nature is all around.
There’s not always a strict schedule. In Como, petting zoos in Mississippi operate more on “come as you are” time. A dad might swing by after Sunday service. A grandparent might bring two excited kids during an afternoon walk. These visits tend to feel spontaneous, laid-back.
And the animals? They’re the real stars. Expect to see miniature goats, dwarf rabbits, hens that cluck louder than expected, donkeys that look wise beyond their years, and the occasional curious alpaca. Some places even have ducks trained to waddle into feeding zones for hand lettuce.
Bathrooms are usually available—but don’t expect marble sinks. Plan for well-kept porta-potties or small farmhouses with functional indoor access. Hand sanitizer stations are often at entry and exit points, especially near the baby lambs corner.
Next steps: Talk to kids beforehand. Not every animal wants to be hugged. But most enjoy gentle pats and food sharing. Teach little ones how to approach calmly. Explain the rules: no pulling tails, ears, or feeding non-approved snacks. Suddenly, that zoo visit becomes more than fun—it becomes learning.
Pricing and Hours Information in Petting Zoos in Como, Mississippi
You won’t need a wallet full of cash for petting zoos in Como, Mississippi. Most charge per person, with kids under two usually free. Tickets typically range between $5 and $10. Some farms have “family deals”—$25 for a family of four. Others welcome donations instead. A jar near the check-in booth with a cow’s face painted on it might read: “Give what your heart says, no judgments!”
Hours vary. A good rule of thumb? Weekday visits are usually mornings only. Think 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. These times align with the animals’ feeding routines and staff availability. Weekends open a bit earlier and sometimes stay open until 5 p.m., especially in spring and fall. Summer heat means shorter hours. No one wants a sweaty chicken or grumpy goat. Many petting zoos shut down during July and August, or only open on cooler mornings.
No online reservations? Common. But that doesn’t mean showing up unannounced is encouraged. Calling ahead helps. Why? Some places only open for groups by appointment. Or they might be closed for cleaning after a birthday party the day before. Others operate seasonally—fall through spring—because animals thrive in milder weather.
Payment methods matter too. Cash is king in Como. Don’t count on credit card readers humming along by the admission gate. ATMs aren’t around every corner. Fill up the coin jar or keep bills handy.
Animal feed is sometimes included. Sometimes sold for $1 or $2. Carrots, lettuce leaves, grain mix—all safe and vet-approved. Vendors don’t hand out sugary treats or human snacks. That keeps stomachs happy and animals calm.
Let’s break it down: Budget around $10 per child. Bring cash. Call first. Check online for temporary hours. Holiday weekends can have extended time, like Labor Day pet days or fall harvest events.
And here’s a pro tip: Follow the local petting zoo Facebook pages. Updates go up fast. A post might say: “Open till 4 p.m. today! Baby chicks just hatched!” That’s the kind of update that turns a so-so day into a memory.
Planning Your Visit: What to Expect in Petting Zoos in Como, Mississippi
Show up prepared, and the experience with petting zoos in Como, Mississippi gets even better. What to bring? First, closed-toe shoes. Sandals = regret. Animals munch where kids walk. Gravel, hay, and the occasional puddle make for messy but fun terrain.
Dress in layers. Mornings in Como can be cool, especially near ponds and shaded barns. By noon, the sun peeks through and warms things up quickly. Light cotton clothing works best. Hats help. So do water bottles. Hydration stations aren’t widespread.
Best time to visit? Saturdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Crowd-wise, it’s just right. Not too busy, not too quiet. This window captures the animals at their most social—after morning feedings, before siesta time.
Weekday mornings offer peace and one-on-one time with farmers or volunteer hosts. Schools doing small field trips might be there, but lines stay short. Less waiting, more touching fuzzy bunnies.
Seasonal visits vary. Fall is gorgeous. Crisp nights, warmer days. Animals energetic. Pumpkins in the corner make for great photo ops. Spring is lively. Baby animals? Yes, please. Newborn lambs, chicks hatching, and piglets running around. It’s peak cute season.
But watch out for rain. Mississippi weather changes fast. After a heavy downpour, many zoos close temporarily. Grounds get muddy. Safety first. Always check the farm’s social media page or call the provided number for updates.
Weather or not, kids love the experience. Especially when they get to feed a chicken from their hand. Or when a goat nudges their pocket looking for snacks. Cameras are encouraged. Snap shots. Record giggles.
What else to bring? Baby wipes. Tons. For hands, faces, and accidental grass stains. Diaper bags for little ones. Snacks, though eating away from animal pens is usually required. Coolers are fine if staying for picnic time.
Don’t expect gift shops. Maybe a small stand with local honey or hand-knit animal hats. But merch is basic and heartfelt, not commercial. That fits Como’s vibe just right.
Next steps: Arrive a little early. Let kids burn off energy before petting begins. Stick to posted rules. Respect animal spaces. Everyone leaves happy and a little tired.
Educational Programs and Special Events in Petting Zoos in Como, Mississippi
Some petting zoos in Como, Mississippi go beyond cuddly animals. They roll out educational programs for local schools and community groups. Classes visit in the spring for farm-to-table lessons. Tours might include composting demos, seed planting, or egg collection from chicken coops.
Animal care talks happen often. Kids listen wide-eyed as farmers explain how goats climb, why pigs roll in mud, and how bees help gardens grow. Volunteers might pass around a real chicken egg. Or let kids brush a miniature donkey under close supervision.
Birthday parties? Yes. They’re a hit. Hosted birthdays usually include 1-hour access, animal feeding for all guests, a shaded party area, and help with setup and cleanup. Themes range from farm-tastic fun to “Wild West Rodeo” (complete with kid-sized cowboy hats). Some even provide cake tables and water sprayers to keep things cool.
Special events mark the seasons. Fall festivals bring hayrides, pumpkin painting, and scarecrow contests. Easter weekends? Expect egg hunts with real hidden eggs (and maybe even golden roosters). July 4th events stay humble—snacks, animal meet-and-greets, and waving little flags in the barnyard.
4-H and Future Farmers of America stop by too. Teens learn about small-scale animal care, budgeting for supplies, and how nonprofits help community farms. It’s rural education at its most practical.
Registration? It’s not always online. Often, it’s email or phone-based. Some events cap attendance to keep things safe and intimate. Word of mouth spreads fast in Como. A flyer at the post office or local grocery store might alert families to a baby animal day open to the public.
The vibe? Always warm, community-focused. It’s not “visit and leave.” It’s “meet the farmer,” “learn the chicken’s name,” and “help carry hay if you can.” That kind of engagement doesn’t happen in chain attractions. That happens right here.
Nearby Attractions in Como, Mississippi
A trip to petting zoos in Como, Mississippi can easily expand into a full-day family adventure. Less than ten minutes away, the Como Depot Museum gives a quiet but insightful look at railroad history, agriculture, and notable locals. Think old train cars, photo archives, and local artifacts. Kids might not sprint in, but they linger. Especially near the miniature town diorama lit with warm bulbs.
Como Park is another solid option. It has open fields, shady benches, restrooms, and a covered basketball court—perfect for post-zoo energy dumps. Pack a picnic. Kick a ball. Let the dog run (if leashed and allowed).
For outdoor fun, Coldwater River is nearby. Families dabble in fishing, floating on calm days, or just walking the natural trails near the bank. It’s not a splash pad, but it’s peaceful. Bring poles with small hooks and practice catching and releasing.
Downtown Como offers charm in small bites. Stop by a local diner—many serve hotcakes big enough to share, plus country ham and sweet tea. Shops are modest. A few carry handmade quilts, jars of local jam, or framed Delta photography. Kids might not shop, but the experience of “slow town” life is worth it.
Seasonal farmers markets pop up in fall and spring. These often include pop-up petting areas, temporary pony rides, and craft stations. Vendors hand out samples. Kids walk away with apple slices and painted rocks.
Not everything needs to be marketed as “for kids.” In this part of Mississippi, fun happens naturally. Explore without rushing. Combine the petting zoo with a library stop (yes, Como has one), or linger at the town square gazebo. The pace fits families who want real moments, not manufactured fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at petting zoos in Como, Mississippi?
Most petting zoos do not allow outside pets. It’s for safety. Dogs can scare animals or trigger fights. Even small dogs might bark at chickens or chase rabbits. For that reason, furry friends from home usually have to stay in the car or at home.
There are exceptions. Some farms host “dog-friendly social days” once a season. These have extra space, leashing rules, and timed entries. But those are rare. Call ahead to confirm.
Service animals are always welcome. Staff are trained to assist families navigating with support animals. They may ask for certification or have designated access routes.
Keep in mind—this rule protects. The last thing anyone wants is a stressed goat or a startled child. Respect the boundaries. It keeps visits fun and safe for everyone.
Can I host a birthday party at a petting zoo in Como, Mississippi?
Absolutely. Many petting zoos welcome birthday parties. They offer private time slots, animal interaction, supervision, and picnic space. Most host children aged 3 to 10, but older kids enjoy it too—especially animal lovers.
Packages vary. Some include feed for twelve kids. Others provide simple decorations, tables, and trash cleanup. Balloons are usually allowed unless windy. Cakes can be brought in, but refrigeration might not be available.
Book early. Weekends fill up fast. May and October are the most popular. Call the number listed for the zoo directly. Email works too if available.
Parents often pair birthday events with themed goodie bags—minifigure farm animals, stickers, or mini bags of animal-shaped crackers. The experience becomes more than a party. It becomes a story kids tell for weeks.
Are there restrooms available?
Yes, restrooms are available—but amenities vary. Some farms offer indoor bathrooms attached to the main house. Others use clean, well-maintained portables located near the entrance or playground. Handwashing stations with soap and water are typically next to the animal areas.
Diaper-changing? Limited. A few spots offer a table in a shady shed or covered area. Not always indoors. Come prepared with a changing pad if needed.
Running water access is near every exit zone. That helps because after hours of touching animals, feeding donkeys, and maybe falling in hay, clean hands are a must.
It’s not Five Star luxury. But it’s clean, functional, and always staffed with someone who’ll point you to where to go. Trust that it’s better than it sounds.
Next steps: Pack wipes, hand sanitizer, and know it’ll be okay. The fun far outweighs the lack of extras. Families keep coming back. One dad said it best: “My kid had the time of her life. And we’re already planning the next visit.” That’s the magic of petting zoos in Como, Mississippi—simple joys, done right.
