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.
Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo
282 Millbrook School Rd., Millbrook, 12545.
Fun fact: Trevor Zoo is the only AZA-accredited zoo in the
country that is located at a high school. The zoo houses more than
170 exotic and indigenous animals with 70 different species, 11 who
are endangered. Bring a picnic, there are a few picnic spots and a
beautiful way to spend an afternoon. $7 adults; $5 seniors, $5 children ages 3-12, 0-2 are free. Open year round from 9am-5pm. 845-677-3704. Open by reservation only. Buy tickets online.
The Catskill Animal Sanctuary
316 Old Stage Rd., Saugerties 12477.
Catskill Animal Sanctuary is a 150-acre refuge in New York’s Hudson Valley for 10 species of farmed animals rescued from cruelty, neglect and abandonment. Over the years, thousands have come to this place of profound peace. If you’d like to visit, you’ll need to schedule your tour in advance and agree to our safety guidelines. Please choose from a 90-minute tour, a 60-minute tour, or a Day Pass. Hear stories of rescues, understand what
caring for the animals mean and learn how you can help. With the Day Pass you can stroll the grounds freely from 10am-3pm, saying hello to as many of our rescued animal residents as you may find along the way– including our iconic “Underfoot” residents, who free-roam the property all day long! Your day pass purchase also includes a complimentary 90-min or 60-min guided educational tour. You can purchase day passes online. 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. From February through November, enjoy a visit with the animals, and chat with our volunteer barn guides every Saturday and Sunday from 11am-1pm (with the exception of some special events and holidays*). The Greenhouse is open on Saturdays from 11 am to 1 pm. Also check the calendar for special events and festivals throughout the year. 845-831-3800.
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.
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.
Updated 6/5/2025
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