When you think of Los Angeles, farms are not typically the first things that come to mind. Below is a list of farms that my family and I love visiting for various reasons. At one point, I loved visiting just to pass the time as a mom with energetic little ones. Eventually I visited because I wanted to learn about gardening, vegetable farming, and chicken keeping. Some of these farms are on large swaths of land and others are on small lots, but all are super fun and informative!
Underwood Family Farms
http://www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com
3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021
Why visit: Underwood Family Farms offers a classic “U‑pick + farm fun” experience. Kids can pick strawberries (and depending on season, other fruits and veggies), ride on tractors, explore hay pyramids, slide down the combine slide, and enjoy a petting zoo/farm‑animal center.
Extras: There are also wagon or electric‑train rides, gem‑mining, and other fun touches; all great for younger children who enjoy hands‑on exploring.
Tip: Strawberries are often available in spring (March–August), making it a great spring outing. Just check their website for what is available for U-Pick.
There are Fall, Winter, and Spring events as well as a lavender section, sunflower section, and tulip area depending on the season.
Apricot Lane Farms
http://www.apricotlanefarms.com
10700 Broadway RD, Moorpark, CA 93021
Why visit: This is a working farm open for tours, where families can learn firsthand about sustainable agriculture, see animals (cows, goats, chickens, sheep, etc.), and explore orchards, gardens, and even a wildlife‑habitat pond.
Seasonal highlight: In spring, the farm bursts with new growth — fruit trees, flowers, and lush gardens. It’s a beautiful, educational — and peaceful — outing away from city noise.
Good to know: Tours tend to book quickly and run from mid February to October. Kids under 5 are often free, which makes it ideal for families with younger children.
Gilchrist Farm
30116 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91390
Why visit: Gilchrist Farm offers a wide variety of activities — from goat‑milking, pony rides, train or wagon rides, to farm crafts and more. It’s a full‑on farm adventure weekend or day‑trip for kids.
My kids attended their farm camp in the summer and pony lessons throughout the year.
Highlights: On weekends and during special events/festivals, there are usually extra fun features like live demonstrations, food vendors, and festive activities.
Why it works: Great if you want a diversified farm‑experience: animals, rides, exploring, a bit of everything for energetic kids.
Tapia Brothers
5251 Hayvenhurst Ave, Encino, CA
Why visit: Tapia brothers offers fresh vegetables throughout the year, but truly comes to life in the fall for their pumpkin patch and corn maze.
Highlights: Their pumpkin patch has a petting zoo, pony rides, and corn maze. Plenty of pumpkins to choose from, and family photo opportunities.
Why it works: Right off the 101 freeway, this farm is accessible and tons of fun!
Urban Homestead
631 Cypress Ave. Pasadena, CA 91103
This was the farm that started it all for me! I watched a 10 minute Youtube video over a decade ago that featured the amazing family that runs this urban farm right off the freeway in Pasadena and was inspired.
My daughter’s school did a class tour and learned about sustainable urban farming, chicken keeping, and made jam.
Visits are by appointment and only for groups. For events, check their calendar online.
123 Farm
10600 Highland Springs Ave, Beaumont, CA 92223
Why visit: While further away than the other farms listed, this one is a gem! Lavender fields, olive groves, and farm events throughout the year are a big draw.
Highlights: Around July and August there is a lavender festival. Take a gorgeous family photo and then sip on some lavender lemonade and shop the lavender goods store. There is even a sourdough festival and olive picking!
Why it works: While far away from the city, kids can stretch their legs on this large property.
Tips for a Great Farm Visit With Kids
- Timing matters: For fruit picking (strawberries, etc.), go in spring or early summer. For harvest‑festivals or pumpkin patches, check the farm’s calendar since many are seasonal.
- Check for reservations & rules: Some farms require advance reservations or parking passes (especially on weekends). Others may be “cash only,” or have special admission rates for holidays and weekends.
- Dress appropriately: Farms can be dusty, muddy, or uneven so closed‑toe shoes, hats, sunscreen, and a reusable bag or basket for produce help.
- Bring snacks and water: Not all farms have full food services, so having your own supplies is smart — especially for children.
- Check age‑appropriateness: Some farms are great for toddlers and preschoolers, others are better for school‑age kids. Activities range from gentle animal‑petting to tractor rides or hay‑rides.
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