The Hudson Valley is filled with educational farms, animals sanctuaries and places filled with animals for visitors of all ages to enjoy. We have rounded up a few of our favorites.
Trailside Museum and Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
7 Lakes Pkwy., Appalachian Trl., Bear
Mountain
Take a step onto the Appalachian Trail
where you will find four museums, live reptiles and fish exhibits,
nature trails filled with animals only native to New York State.
Trailside houses a wide range of native mammals, birds, reptiles,
amphibians and fish. Open year round from 10am-4:30pm. (Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas) 845-786-2701. Zoo is open
Trevor Zoo
282 Millbrook School Rd., Millbrook, 12545.
Fun fact: Trevor Zoo is the only in the
country that is located at a high school. The zoo houses more than
180 exotic and indigenous animals with 80 different species, 8 whom
are endangered. Bring a picnic, there are a few picnic spots and a
beautiful way to spend an afternoon. $6 adults; $4 seniors, $4 children ages 4-13, 3 and under are free. Open year round from 9am-5pm. 845-677-3704. Open by reservation only
The Catskill Animal Sanctuary
316 Old Stage Rd., Saugerties 12477.
A rescue to more than 300 animals who freely roam the grounds- don't
be surprised if a goat or chicken tries to hitch a ride with you.
Tours are offered on the weekends from April to October to non-
members where you will hear stories of rescues, understand what
caring for the animals mean and learn how you can help. Weekend tours available from April- November this year for weekend tours. November tours will be offered at 10:30am and again at 1:30pm. Tickets are $12 adults and $8 children 12 and under. Tours run every half hour from 11am-2:30pm. 845-336-8447. Open on weekends
Stony Kill Farm
79 Farmstead Ln., Wappingers Falls 12590.
8 miles of hiking trails is only the start of what Stony Kill has to
offer visitors. The foundation also offers community garden plots,
nature camps and programs as well as an open barn on the weekend for
visiting the animals. Also check the calendar for special events and festivals throughout the year. The greenhouse and barn is open on weekends from 11am-1pm. 845-831-3800. Open
Barton Orchards
63 Apple Tree Ln., Poughquag
More famously known around town for apple picking, Barton Orchard is
popular among the kids for the large petting zoo, wooden ship
playground, gem mining, duck races and shooting gallery. Plus open on
the weekends is the kids fun part including peddle karts, rope maze,
slides, train, bounce houses and more! Open seasonally from July through November 9am-5pm. Free admission on weekdays and minimal fee on weekends. 845-471-2879. Open
DuBois Farms
209 Perkinsville Rd., Highland 12528.
Fun for the whole family, DuBois is a Hudson Valley favorite open
August through November for pick your own, corn maze, wagon rides and
other activities for the kids. A “tiny town” colorful village and
pretty extensive petting zoo area completes your trip to the farm. 845-795-4037. Open
Kelder's Farm
5755 Route 209, Kerhonkson 12446
Educational
and fun, Kelder's Farm provides something for everyone. From seasonal
entertainment such as jumping pillow and corn maze to berry and apple
picking, a nature classroom, tours and full petting zoo. Must buy tickets or Season Pass. Open every day Spring- Fall from 10am-6pm. Check website for specific opening and closing dates. 845-626-7137. Open
Updated 7/27/2021
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