Best Richmond Petting Zoos & Animal Farms

Hand-feed goats, pigs, and ducks from cups of food, pet a gentle horse wearing a soft horn, and enjoy optional horseback rides or hayrides across this well-maintained rescue farm. The staff creates a genuinely unhurried experience—families often stay far longer than planned as children play among the animals and grounds.

The on-site farm lets children hand-feed friendly animals at dispensers stocked with quarters—a gentle, low-pressure introduction to farm life that pairs well with shaded trail walking and water stations throughout the grounds. Young kids especially enjoy the hands-on animal interaction, and the peaceful landscape with benches and scenic spots makes it easy to spend as much or as little time here as your family's energy allows.

The sanctuary's rescued animals—many with special needs—are genuinely happy and approachable, making this an authentic place to observe and interact with critters cared for by dedicated owners who treat each one like family. Children get a real sense of animal rescue and compassion in action, not just a petting experience.

The zoo offers close-up animal encounters through meet-and-greets and a petting-zoo setup where children can get near creatures like Poppy the animal ambassador—no touching required, but plenty of interactive observation. The compact, walkable layout keeps little ones engaged without overwhelming them, and staff are genuinely knowledgeable and attentive to both animals and families.

Goats here are genuinely friendly and curious—expect them to hop on your back during yoga, nibble from your hands while you feed them, or settle into your lap for cuddle sessions. The staff knows each animal's personality and guides visitors through interactions with patience and warmth, whether you're joining a structured class, celebrating a birthday, or simply spending time in the barn or pasture.

Roaming animals—including llamas, goats, cows, and horses—wander freely around the grounds, letting children feed and interact with them up close in a calm, well-kept setting. Beyond the petting-zoo experience, kids can jump on trampolines and ride horses, while parents can unwind knowing every animal has a name, a rescue story, and genuine care behind it.

Children can hand-feed and pet a variety of well-cared-for farm animals during scheduled visits, with staff guidance on proper handling and the option to hold certain animals. Pony rides and a barrel train add to the experience, while the shaded barn setting and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal choice for birthday parties or casual family outings.

The petting zoo here invites children to walk among a diverse array of friendly farm animals—including a beloved calf named Buttercup and curious turkeys that follow visitors around—while parents relax in the seating areas nearby. Kids can purchase feed buckets to interact hands-on with the animals, and the intimate setting combines animal encounters with a small play area, creating a low-key farm experience that feels like stepping back in time.

This mobile petting zoo brings gentle farm animals directly to your venue—ponies for rides and a rotating cast of friendly creatures for kids to pet and interact with. The setup is seamless and cleanup is handled by the team, so parents can focus on the celebration while children get up close with animals in a relaxed, hands-on experience.

Jana brings a carefully selected group of barnyard and exotic animals directly to your event, where kids can pet, interact with, and learn about creatures ranging from a Jerusalem donkey named Evie to ponies and goats. Her hands-on approach keeps groups engaged and happy, whether you're hosting a birthday party, church celebration, or family gathering, with Jana tailoring the animal selection and experience to match your theme or vision.