Lambs Farm in Libertyville With Kids: What to Know

Updated November 2026. Hours and admission change by season, so check lambsfarm.org before you go.

Lambs Farm in Libertyville is a nonprofit that has served adults with developmental disabilities since 1961, with housing, jobs and programs on its campus. It also welcomes families, with a farmyard, a cafe and bakery, a country store and a thrift shop. For toddlers and preschoolers, the animals are the main event.

The big news for 2026: the farmyard reopened on August 15, 2026, after more than a year of construction, with a renovated and expanded space. Here is how to plan a visit.

The farmyard

Children can see farm animals up close in the farmyard, and Lambs Farm also runs a Discovery Center where kids learn about farm life. Toddlers love watching the animals move and listening to their sounds. Preschoolers enjoy naming the animals and talking about what each one does on a farm.

One rule to know before you go: the animals are on special diets, so visitors are not allowed to feed them. Lambs Farm also asks visitors not to chase or pick up any animals. If your child is used to feeding goats at other farms, explain this in the car on the way there.

• Season: the farmyard is seasonal. In 2026 it reopened in mid-August and runs on select days through late October.
• Hours: Lambs Farm lists the farmyard as open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM, during its season. All Lambs Farm businesses are closed on Mondays.
• Memberships: season memberships have included unlimited farmyard and Discovery Center visits, which can pay off if you live nearby.

Other things to do

• Magnolia Cafe and Bakery: a sit-down meal, and seasonal brunches with reservations.
• Sugar Maple Country Store and Bakery: cookies, chocolates and treats to take home.
• Cedar Chest Thrift Shop: a resale shop on campus.
• Mini golf and special events: Lambs Farm runs mini golf, festivals and family events through the year, including a spring Bunny Brunch and a plant sale in May.

When to go

• Late summer: the new farmyard's first weeks are popular, so weekday mornings are calmest.
• Fall: pleasant weather and fewer crowds until the farmyard closes in late October.
• Winter and early spring: the farmyard is usually closed, but the cafe and shops may be open. Check the website before you drive out.

Tips for visiting with toddlers

• Wash hands with soap and water after the farmyard. Wipes are a backup, not a replacement.
• Keep pacifiers, sippy cups and snacks away from the animal areas.
• Wear closed-toe shoes that can get dirty.
• A stroller works on most paths, but a carrier helps when it gets crowded.
• Plan for about two hours, including a snack or lunch at the cafe.

Why Lambs Farm is special

Every visit supports the people who live and work at Lambs Farm. It is a gentle way to show children that a community includes people with different abilities, and to talk about kindness and helping each other.

More farm and animal outings

• Historic Wagner Farm in Glenview is free and open year-round. See our farms near Chicago guide.
• Lincoln Park Zoo has a farm area and is free. See our Lincoln Park Zoo with a toddler guide.
• Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods runs family drop-in programs with live education animals. See our Lincolnshire guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lambs Farm good for toddlers?

Yes. The animals, open space and short walking distances work well for children ages 1 to 5.

Can kids feed the animals at Lambs Farm?

No. The animals are on special diets, and public feeding is not allowed.

Is Lambs Farm open in winter?

The farmyard is seasonal and closes in late October. The cafe and stores may stay open. Check lambsfarm.org.

Is Lambs Farm open on Mondays?

No. All Lambs Farm businesses are closed on Mondays.

Where is Lambs Farm?

14245 W. Rockland Road in Libertyville, near Interstate 94.

Children's Land in Lake County

Children's Land has Lake County locations in Lincolnshire and Grayslake, open Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with hot breakfast and lunch. Children in our preschool program start going on field trips. Contact us to schedule a visit.

Related reading: Things to Do With Kids in Grayslake, IL.