Saturday, September 8, 2012

Winslow Farm Animal Sanctuary

Winslow Farm Animal Sanctuary in Norton, MA is an absolutely wonderful place to take the kids. We have gone so many times and always have a great time. The farm is home to rescued animals that have been abandoned or abused. But it is not a sad place at all, you can see how much care goes in to giving the animals a happy life. For the most part the animals wander around the farm, which is set back from the road in a wooded area. As you walk along the paths you can pet and interact with cats, dogs, goats, alpacas, sheep, chickens, geese, pigs and much more. There are all kinds of birds there, some are in pens but many wander around. There are several horses too. My kids really like the cat house where there are sooo many cats hanging out, and the cute bunny hutch that looks like an old fashioned log cabin. Aside from the animals there are walking trails in the woods, a picturesque pond, a great all wood play structure with slides and swings, a small gift shop and more. We love to go in the fall when there is often a bonfire going which adds a pleasant aroma to the visit. Be sure to check their web site because they have many special events throughout the year, such as a friendly haunted wood at Halloween, Easter egg hunts, a vegetarian Thanksgiving feast and summer time outdoor movies. We have never needed to use restrooms there but they appear to be like outhouses. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids, but they make it clear that all the proceeds go back to the sanctuary. They do have Birthday Parties on weekends but we have never found it to be overly crowded. Winslow Farm is just a really charming, unique place for a family outing. It won't break the bank and you don't need a ton of time to spend, you can easily see and do everything in an hour or so.