GOVIN’S FARM

MENOMONIE, WI
VISIT WEBSITE

Despite this week’s uninvited snowfall, I checked the calendar and it really does say that spring is here. So while the weather might not be at an ideal spring time temperature, that doesn’t mean we can’t partake in an ideal spring time activity…like holding baby chicks and lambs! Where to do this, you ask? None other than the subject of today’s review, Govin’s Farm, where their motto is “If it fits in your lap, they’ll help you hold it.”

What is it?

Govin’s Farm is a small family-run farm located about an hour east of the Twin Cities in Menomonie, Wisconsin. Run by John and Julie Govin, along with their sons Kyle and Clayton, the farm takes pride in raising their animals naturally, free of hormones and antibiotics. Every spring, for four weekends, the “lambing barn” is open, allowing you to get up close and personal with baby sheep, pigs, chickens, cows and more. You’re allowed to hold the baby animals, which usually is a surefire hit with kids. There’s nothing quite like watching your child’s eyes light up as they pick up their own itty bitty baby chicky. Beyond the cuteness of baby animals, they sell their meats on site including lamb, chicken, and pork. They also have 6 acres of strawberries, with both U-pick and pre-picked options available during the summer. Finally, when fall comes around, they roll out an 11 acre corn maze to go with their 3 acres of pumpkins and other assorted fall-y activities.

Fit for what ages?

All ages are welcome! The whole farm is completely kid-friendly and they encourage everyone to get involved. Make sure teeny tiny kiddos respect the animals and have the capacity to understand they are fragile and alive and deserve a gentle handling. One item to note is that we are talking about a true working farm here, so there is plenty of mud and dirt to go around. Plan your outfits accordingly and don’t be surprised if your kiddos end up messy. Strap babies in a carrier and leave the stroller in the car.

How much are we talkin?

Kids under 24 months are FREE. Everyone over the age of two will pay $7.25/person. (Note: Group rates are available for larger groups such as schools/daycares/etc)

Beyond the admission fees, there are pony rides at the farm which cost $5, and inside the barn you can find face painting for $5 as well.

If you and your family come hungry, you can snag a meal deal for $5.75 which includes a hotdog, chips, cookie and beverage. And if you’re up for it, some fair-style mini donuts can purchased for $2.50 (for 6) or $4.50 (for 12). I say spring for the 12 as they go quickly…plus I’m a huge sucker for deep fried sugar.

Want some tips?

Get there early! With an abundance of ridiculously cute baby animals stocking the barn, Govin’s is a popular family destination. This past weekend we arrived about an hour after open to find the place already pretty packed with customers. If you want as much alone time with the baby animals as possible, I’d suggest trying to get their at open. Don’t sweat it if it’s packed though because most everyone seems to be very polite and courteous in taking turns with the animals.

They do take credit cards for admission and for food, but I’d suggest bringing cash for the pony rides or face painting. Bring some quarters as well if you would like to grab some animal feed from the machines to let your kids get in on the feeding action.

The parking lot is big and can get crowded but they do provide a horse drawn wagon ride that will take you directly to the entrance so that’s a nice little bonus.

Wear tennis shoes or boots since it is often muddy in the barn. Kids will get covered in hay from the hay bales and should probably utilize the hand sanitizer on the way out after touching all the animals. Bring your camera! So many cute and memorable moments to capture here! Also, although it’s a bit of a drive from Minneapolis, it’s not somewhere you’ll spend hours on end. Expect to come and go in under an hour or so, so maybe make a day trip of it and hit up some of these suggestions that sit along Highway 94 to fill your drive with added fun:

• The Giggle Factory
• Crystal Cave
• Red Cedar State Trail
• Devil’s Punchbowl
• Willow River State Park
• Chaos Waterpark

Hours and Location

N6134 670th St |  Menomonie, WI 54751

Open 10am – 4pm on the following dates:
April 2-3 (Saturday & Sunday)
April 9-10 (Saturday & Sunday)

The farm is located right off the interstate, down about 1/2 mile from main exit.

Follow Govin’s Farm on Facebook to keep up to date on baby animal cuteness, and all the other offerings the farm has such as strawberry picking and their corn maze festival.

Disclaimer: I received four free passes to visit Govin’s Farm in exchange for my time sharing this post and hosting this giveaway. All thoughts are my own.