Family Fun at New Jersey Farms

Family fun at New Jersey Farms? Is it really a possibility or is this a riddle of some kind? Everyone recognizes New Jersey as a predominantly industrial state and some may even know that New Jersey is one of the most densely populated states in the United States. These facts would seem to disprove assertions that you can seek out family fun at New Jersey Farms. With a little bit of direction you may want to search out some of the truly interesting and enjoyable farm establishments in New Jersey , perhaps starting with some of these examples of spots to enjoy family fun at New Jersey farms.

Fosterfields, Morristown, NJ. A visit to Fosterfields is both a lesson in history and agriculture bound together by a good deal of fun. Fosterfields has been a working farm in New Jersey since pre-Revolutionary War Days. But perhaps its most endearing and enduring resident was Caroline Foster who lived at Fosterfield for 98 years, a resident here when she died at age 102 in 1979. When you see the full beauty of Fosterfields you may well come to understand her attachment to this magnificent piece of New Jersey farmland.

Fosterfield is open to the public beginning on April 1- late October and visitors will find that the substance of their visit will change according to season. You and your family can count on seeing cows, pigs, goats, lambs and chickens. At the farm there are often "help the farmer" activities through which kids and parents can get actively involved in some of the many chores that make up farm life. There are also special activities and demonstrations including potato planting, butter churning, milking cows the old fashioned way and sheep shearing. While you are on the grounds check out the historic buildings including the house Caroline Foster had built for herself as a young woman to allow herself to get out from under her father's control but remain on the farm she loved. Definitely call to discover what is on the farm schedule in advance of your visit, to get directions and admission information at 973-326-7645.

Schaefer Farms, Hunterdon County, NY. Owned and operated by the fourth generation of the Schaefer family, Schaefer farm produces. What once was a simple dairy farm has morphed over the years into something far more family friendly. Today the Schaefer farm has made a shift from primarily dairy to almost everything. They raise fruit and vegetables but they also cater to a growing number of families who come out from the city attempting to give themselves and their children a real taste of what farm life is all about. For many its a real eye opener.

At Schaefer Farms visitors get a chance to pick their own produce in season, like blueberries and pumpkins. There are hayrides to be had and even a haunted house to be explored. But probably the most lasting impression kids leave with is their time with animals. At Schaefer Farms there is a super sized petting zoo where kids can get friendly with some of the farms non-human residents. What adults may find interesting is that Schaefer farm is run by two Schaefer brothers, their wives and a total of five children. From top to bottom everyone in the family pitches in to make this a profitable operation and a a place where you can enjoy family fun at a New Jersey Farm.

Silver Maple Farm, Sergeantville, New Jersey. It may not look like your typical B &B but that's mainly because its not. The owners of Silver Maple Farm did not set out as B & B managers but when you own property that includes a 200 year old farm house, gardens and 20 acres of pasture land it does eventually become a workable idea.

Silver Maple Farm is a small farm but can be really fun for kids because besides the farm environment this B & B has its own luxurious in ground swimming pool and tennis courts. Staying at Silver Maple can give you a chance to simply relax and enjoy great breakfast meals with farm grow produce. What may be of special interest to some is that Silver Maple Farm is a fully organic farm. It produces berries, herbs , vegetables and flowers from April - October. Seasonally you can get involved in picking tomatoes and salad greens, mixing with farm goats and ducks and going out to pick your own berries during your stay.

At Silver Maple Farm there are two unique factors that may further raise your interest. One of the owners is also a car collector and you will have a chance to see his considerable collection housed on site and in barns. Most unusual is that this is a bed and breakfast that actively encourages you to bring along children and pets. Now where do you see that in writing. For more information 908-237-2192.

Howell Living History Farm, Titusville, New Jersey. The Howell Living History Farm is a bit of Americana that has been rescued, preserved and is now open to the public in an effort to maintain the heritage of farming in New Jersey.

What many visitors really like about the Howell Living History Farm is that you are pretty much on your own as you follow a self guiding tour around the property and buildings that make up this historic agricultural treasure. In the fields you and your family will see horses, ducks, sheep and geese. Buildings include the chicken house, a central barn, a sheep barn even an ice house. Most of what you see has been preserved with consideration for historical accuracy so that what you see is an accurate presentation of what farm life in New Jersey and neighboring states looked like in the early 1900's.

During the year the Howell Living History Farm offers a wide variety of seasonal programs. You can visit and view things like the shearing of sheep, cornhusking, maple sugaring , and rides on workhorses and hay wagons. Call in advance to discover upcoming special programs so that you can plan you visit accordingly at 609-737-3299