Guide to Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary

While there is something to be said for structured activities, one of the joys of childhood is the ability to explore and roam unfettered by anyone else's expectations or agendas. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary is just the sort of place where that is possible. This working farm has more than 230 acres that include hiking trails, a garden, farm animals, and more to see and do than you can possibly squeeze into your day. The Farm also offers summer camps, group programs, and classes for kids and adults. - By Christy Matte

Animal Life

One of the highlights to Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary is the animals. Kids will love visiting the pigs, goals, sheep, fancy chickens and other farm animals in the barns. The farmers do their chores there in the afternoons, so it's a great time to go with curious children in tow. There is plenty of wildlife for viewing at Drumlin, too. Rescued and rehabilitated owls, rabbits, deer, hawk, skunks and more have homes along the hiking paths. Families who visit throughout the year have the added fun of watching the baby animals grow throughout the seasons.

Garden

Drumlin Farm has a "Learning Garden," where kids are invited to explore and even touch. One of the favorite activities is digging in a bin of dirt with gardening tools (dirt-phobic parents, take note!), but with staff on hand, your kids may be invited to smell and taste the crops growing there. It's a wonderful place to teach your kids about where vegetables come from, especially if you don't have the space, talent, or time to tackle a garden at home.

Vehicles

Perhaps you have a child who is obsessed with vehicles. At Drumlin Farm, they'll be able to see plenty of large farm vehicles up close. In the spring, summer and fall, your whole family can enjoy a hay ride around the farm. Pulled by tractor, the rides have an additional cost ($2 for adults, $1 for kids 2-12, and free for those under 2), but they are an extremely popular way to pass some time. Do plan ahead, though, because the tractor driver takes a lunch break from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm and ends the day at 3:45pm.

Farm Stand and CSA

If you're in the area but without time for a full-fledged visit, make sure to swing by and check out the farm stand. You never quite know what you'll find, but it could include fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, meat, and wool. Drumlin Farm also has summer and winter CSAs available. Each week you'll enjoy a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. In addition to knowing where your produce is coming from, and supporting local agriculture, there's an element of surprise in each delivery. It's dependent on the availability of crops at any given time.

Sustainability and Green Buildings

Drumlin Farm has committed to exploring options for preserving the environment. They are using rainwater collection methods, energy efficient lighting, all-natural building materials, and solar power. Their new Farm Life Center is designed to be a showcase for green building options.

Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful place to spend a day with kids. After exploring the trails, visiting the animals, and getting dirty in the garden, you can enjoy lunch at one of the tables in their picnic area, or bring along a blanket and sit under the trees right in front of the Education Center. Cold beverages and ice cream are available at the gift shop.

Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary

208 South Great Road
Lincoln, MA 01773

March 1 - October 31: 9am – 5pm
November 1 – February 28: 9am – 4pm
Closed Mondays

Members: Free
Non-Members: Adults: $6, Children (2-12) & Seniors: $4
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Christy Matte is a local freelance writer and blogger, as well as co-founder of Boston Parent Bloggers. She blogs about parenting, travel, tech, and philanthropy at QuirkyFusion.com.