Animal Experiences in Lancaster, PA

Find petting zoos and animal encounters in Lancaster County

Furred or feathered, Lancaster County is home to animals - from cows, chickens, goats, and sheep to wolves, alpacas, and miniature horses. Animals lovers will love the chance to pet, feed, and learn about the species that live here. Furred or feathered, Lancaster County is home to animals - from cows, chickens, goats, and sheep to wolves, alpacas, and miniature horses. Animals lovers will love the chance to pet, feed, and learn about the species that live here.

Eastland Alpacas
In Mount Joy, you’ll find gentle, adorable alpacas that call the 30-acre farm home. Take a tour of the farm, pet and feed an alpaca, and even treat yourself to a cozy pair of socks made from alpaca wool. Tours are available by appointment, so be sure to call before stopping by.

Refreshing Mountain Wildlife Center
Beyond the zipline courses they’re known for, Refreshing Mountain gives groups of 9 or more people the chance to get up close with the lizards, turtles, amphibians, and snakes that live in their Wildlife Center. Guides safely handle the animals, providing facts along the way. If the slithery, scaly type isn't your thing, the Equine & Farm Animal program may be better, featuring horses, pigs, llamas, goats, and more.

Wolf Sanctuary of PA
Venture to the woodlands of northern Lancaster County, where you can meet with the wolves that roam the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Watch the wolves as you move from pack-to-pack to learn about their behavior. For adults, the Wolf Sanctuary holds Full Moon Tours once a month for self-guided tours and a bonfire.

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
Sheep, donkeys, goats – oh my! Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is home to a barnyard full of cute animals in their Barnyard Animal Grove and Farm Experience Center, included with admission. For an extra dose of cuteness, stop by the Baby Chick Hatchery where you and your children can hold and pet baby chicks.

That Fish Place - That Pet Place
The kids will love checking out the free Stingray touch tank, as well as hundreds of freshwater and saltwater fish tanks, birds, reptiles, small animals, aquatic plants, and corals! Well-behaved, leashed pets are always welcome at That Fish Place - That Pet Place, so bring them along for the adventure!

Old Windmill Farm
On your guided tour of this working Amish farm, you’ll meet the goats, cows, and chickens who live there. Kids can bottle feed a calf, pet the friendly goats, and gather fresh eggs laid by the chickens. Along the way, you’ll learn more about the Amish and their farm animals.

Oregon Dairy Restaurant & Buffet
Family-Owned and operated, Oregon Dairy is a working dairy farm and features a Market, Family Restaurant, Country Gift Shoppe, Ice Cream Shoppe, Deck, Farm-Themed Playground, and farm animals on-site! To have even more animal experience, visit during on of their seasonal events!

Red Caboose Motel
Stay overnight in a train caboose and enjoy the on-site petting zoo where you can even feed the animals! As well, as enjoy buggy rides and many nearby attractions like the Strasburg Rail Road and Cherry Crest Adventure Farm!

Lil’ Miniature Horse Farm
There are fewer things cuter than a miniature horse! Swing by the Lil’ Miniature Horse Farm for a visit with these pint-sized ponies. Make the experience extra special for your kids with a horse or horse-drawn cart ride, with the chance to help groom the horses before the ride.

North Museum of Nature & Science
Home to snakes, salamanders, lizards, spiders, turtles, and tortoises, the North Museum of Nature & Science offers kids a chance to say hello to these creatures in their Live Animal Room. There are over 20 different critters to learn about while exploring the museum.

Amish Farm and House
Along with being a great resource for a look into Amish life, Amish Farm and House is also home to some friendly farm animals to visit. Maggie the Mule and Max the Scottish Highland Steer will be happy to see you when you visit them, along with the goats, baby chicks, miniature painted horses, turkeys, and more. For even more interaction with animals, plan to visit for one of their goat yoga sessions!

Moonbeam Meadows Farm
Hosted by the Old Order Amish community, their tours offer an up close and personal look at the animals, with no boundaries or fences to get in the way. And with seasonal treats provided, you're sure to have a truly authentic experience. Plus, for those looking for something extra special, their Smores Camp Fire Finale tour is the perfect way to end the day. And if you're looking for a more private experience, their tailored tours for groups of 10 or less are perfect for you. Don't miss out on this unforgettable opportunity to experience farm life like never before!

Book a Farm Stay

Experience Lancaster County in authentic fashion with a stay on a farm. Enjoy all the rustic charm without the chores. If you want your children to experience milking cows, collecting eggs, chasing baby chicks, and learning about life on the farm this is a must-do fun and educational opportunity!

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