Ardenwood Historic Farm

Met and exceeded expectations. My kids (10 and 7) were in awe. They were adamant about visiting on a day when the train was running and we finally got it after a couple of trials and errors. The last train departure from the entrance is at 2:50 pm on Thursday and Friday; one more run at 3:30 pm happens on Sundays only. No train rides on Saturday. The train was very real with a cute little diesel engine, sounding its horn and ringing its bell at railroad crossings, operated by an engineer and two conductors. The train passed through a eucalyptus grove and monarch butterflies were flying around in droves, it was a dreamy ride. We happened to be there at animal feeding time and that was entraining, too, happens at 3 pm every day starting at the granary (the place where grains are kept) when the farm is open. The farm lets children of all ages feed the animals so parents and kids alike lined up and were allocated a handful of grain to throw at the chickens or let the goats and sheep lick out of their palms. But please don't feed the animals at other times. There was also a blacksmith shop and the blacksmith forged a hook with an ornamental brass leaf for all those interested, you can also buy said hooks and other handmade iron items there. I found the forging demo very interesting and my kids watched attentively and asked a ton of questions, the blacksmith was very kind and patient and answered all of those. My seven year old spent most of his time at the farm milking the wooden cow, a cleverly made and surprisingly sturdy milking simulator, which you could refill and play with forever or until bedtime, whichever comes first. We spent 3 hours there and if we had come earlier and the cafe were open (the cafe is open on weekends only) we could have easily spent the whole day. What a gem!

Perfect for kids and adults. The train around the farm was closed in winter. Will reopen in April. Many birds and in the winter lots of Monarch butterflies.

It’s huge! Animals are well cared for. Consider bringing a stroller! There’s lots of walking, especially if you go on a Saturday since the train doesn’t run that day.

Beautiful place to travel and hike. Grate place to come with kids There is a store with food- hotdogs, chicken, Mac and cheese, ice cream. There are goats and chickens. There is a train for traveling around the place, very nice with kids.

Great place to go learn about farms and various animals. The docents at the Patterson house are dressed in time period clothing, and the park rangers are always looking to help children get up close to the animals that they can. The house and the train are only available from April until the fall.