Petting zoos in Bedford, New Hampshire offer families a charming blend of countryside peace and hands‑on animal fun, all just a short drive from the bustling New England capitals. Visitors can wander through fenced pastures, meet friendly goats, curious rabbits, and even a sleepy llama, all while learning simple facts about farm life. The town’s modest size keeps crowds low, so kids get plenty of personal space to explore. Seasonal events—like pumpkin feeding in the fall or flower‑petal picnics in spring—add extra sparkle, making Bedford a hidden gem for family outings.
Family Activities and What to Expect in Petting Zoos in Bedford, New Hampshire
Parents looking for a low‑stress day out will find a range of activities designed with tiny hands and curious minds in mind. Most Bedford petting zoos feature open‑air animal barns where children can touch, feed, and even help groom the residents under staff supervision. Typical experiences include goat milking demonstrations, chicken‑egg hunting, and a mini‑tractor ride around the meadow.
Age recommendations are broad; toddlers as young as 18 months can join as long as an adult stays close, while school‑age kids often enjoy the supplemental “little farmer” workshops that teach basic animal care. Family‑friendly features such as stroller‑accessible pathways, shaded picnic tables, and clean changing stations keep logistics simple. Interactive signage in bright colors offers bite‑size facts about each species, turning playtime into a quiet learning moment.
Pricing and Hours Information in Petting Zoos in Bedford, New Hampshire
Ticket prices stay modest to encourage repeat visits. General admission usually runs between $8 and $12 for adults and $5 to $8 for children aged 2–12. Siblings often qualify for a discounted “family pack” that brings the total cost down to roughly $30 for two adults and two kids. Seasonal passes, perfect for local families, are priced around $45 and grant unlimited entry during the operating months.
Operating hours typically follow a summer schedule of 10 am to 4 pm, extending to 5 pm on weekends for extra daylight. In the cooler months, doors open later, around 11 am, and close earlier, usually 3 pm, to accommodate shorter days. Most zoos remain closed on major holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, but they often host special holiday events that require separate tickets.
Planning Your Visit: What to Expect in Petting Zoos in Bedford, New Hampshire
Preparation smooths out the day, and a few simple tips make the experience even sweeter. First, dress children in layers—New Hampshire weather can shift quickly, especially near open fields. Comfortable shoes are a must; barns can be wet, and little feet love to explore the grassy nooks.
Bring a small cooler with water bottles, healthy snacks, and a blanket for impromptu picnics. Many Bedford facilities prohibit outside food inside animal barns, but they usually provide a nearby picnic area for families to enjoy meals. Sunscreen and insect repellent protect against sunny afternoons and summer bugs.
Best visiting times include weekday mornings, when animal activity is highest and crowds are minimal. Late afternoon visits in the summer offer cooler temperatures and a calming “golden hour” feel, perfect for photography. Seasonal considerations matter: spring brings baby animal births, a great draw for curious kids, while fall features harvest festivals and pumpkin patches.
Educational Programs and Special Events in Petting Zoos in Bedford, New Hampshire
Schools and community groups take advantage of the hands‑on learning opportunities that petting zoos provide. Tiered field‑trip packages align with curriculum standards, offering guided tours that emphasize animal habitats, nutrition, and humane care. Teachers can book a 60‑minute “Farm Fundamentals” session for as little as $150, which includes a worksheet packet and a souvenir certificate for each student.
Birthday parties are a popular choice for local families. Packages typically include private barn access, a farm‑themed cake, a souvenir goat‑brush, and a short animal‑interaction demo. Prices start at $250 for up to ten children, with add‑ons like a hay‑ride or a pony‑trot available for an extra fee.
Seasonal events keep the calendar lively. In spring, the “Baby Animal Parade” lets kids meet newborn chicks and lambs. Summer brings “Twilight Tales,” where storytellers gather around a fire pit while animals roam nearby. Autumn features “Harvest Hoedown” with pumpkin carving, corn mazes, and a festive farmer’s market. Each event is promoted on the zoo’s website and often highlighted in local community newsletters.
Nearby Attractions in Bedford, New Hampshire
A day in Bedford can easily extend beyond the petting zoo. Just a short drive away, Hillsborough County Farm offers a sprawling orchard where families can pick apples in September or strawberries in June. The nearby Bedford Historical Society Museum showcases the town’s agricultural past, making it a perfect complement to the animal experience.
Nature lovers can hike the scenic Bedford Hills Trail, a gentle 2‑mile loop that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Merrimack River valley. For a splash of water fun, the Bedford Riverfront Park features a spray deck, playground, and a small ferry that takes visitors across the river for a quick sightseeing break.
Dining options abound, with family‑friendly eateries such as “The Barnyard Café,” known for its homemade pies and farm‑to‑table sandwiches, and “Riverbend Grill,” offering outdoor seating and a kids’ menu that includes mini‑burgers and farm‑fresh salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed inside the petting zoos in Bedford, New Hampshire?
No, outside animals are not permitted within the zoo grounds. This policy protects resident animals from stress and helps maintain a safe, sanitary environment for all visitors.
What’s the best age for a child to start visiting petting zoos in Bedford?
Children as young as 18 months can enjoy a guided visit, provided an adult stays close and handles all interactions. Most facilities recommend child‑to‑staff ratios of one adult per child for toddlers, while older kids can participate more independently in supervised activities.
Can visitors purchase animal-themed souvenirs on site?
Yes, most Bedford petting zoos operate gift shops offering items such as plush animals, goat‑milk soaps, miniature farming tools, and educational activity books. Souvenir prices range from $3 for a postcard to $20 for a hand‑crafted wooden toy.
Planning a family outing around petting zoos in Bedford, New Hampshire, becomes effortless when the right details are at hand. From affordable tickets and flexible hours to educational programs and nearby attractions, the town delivers a well‑rounded, farm‑fresh experience that keeps kids smiling and parents relaxed. Pack a picnic, bring a camera, and let the gentle rustle of hay and friendly animal noises set the tone for a memorable day out.
