If you’re after a family day out near Chicago, the surrounding countryside has farm parks worth exploring. These spots offer a change of pace from the city, with open space to wander, animals to see, and a relaxed setting for kids and grown-ups alike. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a spontaneous outing, the areas just beyond the city line make for an easy escape.
Before you head out, check each farm’s own website for opening times and any booking details, especially during school holidays when things can get busy. Wear sturdy shoes or wellies, since farmland can be muddy, and pack layers since weather can shift quickly in this region.
Distances are measured in a straight line from downtown Chicago, so allow extra time by road.
Farm parks near Chicago
City Farm Chicago
Chicago · about 2 miles from downtown
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Main Barn
Chicago · about 3 miles from downtown
Lincoln Park Zoo is a zoo established in 1868 that features animals and exhibits.
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Farm in the Zoo
Chicago · about 3 miles from downtown
The farm features cows, chickens, and pigs on display, along with an edible garden where visitors can participate in planting activities.
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Pritzker Family Children's Zoo
Chicago · about 3 miles from downtown
The Pritzker Family Children's Zoo features a petting zoo, playground, tours, and a cafe, with wheelchair accessible facilities available.
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Kovler Seal Pool
Chicago · about 3 miles from downtown
Lincoln Park Zoo is a zoo featuring animals and exhibits.
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Lincoln Park Zoo
Chicago · about 3 miles from downtown
A small zoo features lions, primates, reptiles, a children's area, and an interactive farm exhibit.
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Chicago Patchwork Farms
Chicago · about 4 miles from downtown
Chicago Patchwork Farms is a farmers' market in Chicago, Illinois with wheelchair accessible entrance.
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North Lawndale Youth Farm
Chicago · about 5 miles from downtown
North Lawndale Youth Farm is a wheelchair-accessible farm located in Chicago, Illinois where visitors can engage with agricultural activities.
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GlennArt Farm
Chicago · about 7 miles from downtown
This Chicago West Side farm offers goat yoga, goat interactions, raw goat milk products, and farm tours.
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The Talking Farm
Skokie · about 11 miles from downtown
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Hamill Family Play Zoo
Brookfield · about 11 miles from downtown
Hamill Family Play Zoo in Brookfield, Illinois features a petting zoo, playground, cafe, and gift shop, with wheelchair accessibility and guided tours available.
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South Parking Lot at Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Brookfield · about 11 miles from downtown
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Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Brookfield · about 11 miles from downtown
A wildlife park features lions, tigers, dolphins and other animals in indoor and outdoor habitats.
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Chicago Zoological Society
Brookfield · about 11 miles from downtown
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Hoofed Animals
Brookfield · about 11 miles from downtown
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J4K Pumpkins
Chicago · about 12 miles from downtown
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Historic Wagner Farm
Glenview · about 16 miles from downtown
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The Children's Farm at The Center
Palos Park · about 19 miles from downtown
The Children's Farm at The Center in Palos Park, Illinois offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot.
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Forest View Farms
Tinley Park · about 21 miles from downtown
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Odyssey Fun Farm
Tinley Park · about 24 miles from downtown
Odyssey Fun Farm is a farm and pumpkin patch in Tinley Park, Illinois with free parking available for visitors.
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