Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary
A working farm and wildlife sanctuary offering hands-on education, animal encounters, and nature trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Baby animals are active!
Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time
Baby animals are active!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A working farm and wildlife sanctuary offering hands-on education, animal encounters, and nature trails.
"A working farm and wildlife sanctuary that's great for kids to see and learn about farm animals and native species."
Book Ahead for Spring
Spring weekends are popular for baby animals. Reserve parking and tickets online to guarantee entry.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on trails and around the farm. Good footwear is a must for exploring!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baby Animal Encounters
Barnyard
Witness adorable lambs, piglets, and chicks during spring. A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike!
+1
Native Wildlife Exhibits
Various enclosures
See native New England species like foxes, owls, and hawks up close. Learn about local conservation efforts.
Working Farm Operations
Fields and barns
Observe crop cultivation and livestock management. A great way to understand sustainable farming practices.
Nature Trails
Throughout the sanctuary
Explore peaceful walking paths offering scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Baby Animals
+1It's a Working Farm, Not a Zoo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead for Spring
Spring weekends are popular for baby animals. Reserve parking and tickets online to guarantee entry.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on trails and around the farm. Good footwear is a must for exploring!
Pack a Picnic Lunch
No food vendors on-site, but plenty of picnic spots. Enjoy your meal amidst nature.
Check for Programs
They offer educational programs and camps. Great for kids to learn about nature and farming.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead for Spring
Spring weekends are popular for baby animals. Reserve parking and tickets online to guarantee entry.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on trails and around the farm. Good footwear is a must for exploring!
Pack a Picnic Lunch
No food vendors on-site, but plenty of picnic spots. Enjoy your meal amidst nature.
Check for Programs
They offer educational programs and camps. Great for kids to learn about nature and farming.
Support the Farm Stand
Purchase fresh produce, eggs, and honey. Proceeds support the sanctuary's mission.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Drumlin Farm for its charming farm animals, educational opportunities, and peaceful nature trails. It's a beloved spot for families, especially in spring when baby animals are abundant. Some visitors have noted issues with service animal policies and staff interactions, though many find the overall experience positive and enriching. +2
"This farm wants to profit from families with service dogs but refuses to provide equal service! Before our visit, I confirmed over the phone that dogs were allowed. At the ticket counter, we also informed the staff that our dog is a psychiatric support dog, and we were allowed to enter without issue.
Throughout the visit, we carefully followed the rules, including avoiding the newborn lambs as advised. However, in a room of the cow barn — an empty space with no people or animals — an elderly staff member suddenly rushed out, called us “ridiculous,” and demanded that we leave. At that moment, we were just trying to take a photo of our dog near a small gate (as shown below). My boyfriend and I were blocking the doorway, keeping the dog completely restricted. The dog was calm and did not move around.
Later, I tried to call and file a complaint. The receptionist refused to communicate, saying the person who kicked us out was the Director of Livestock and that “if she says you have to leave, then you have to leave.” Then she hung up the phone."
S
"It’s my first tiime coming to this place. We don’t pay anything as we have the memberships of the Mass Audubon. This place is great to visit as they have animals and hiking trails. Most visitors are family with children. Most people visit the animal barns but hiking trails are big enough that you only meet few people on the way."
cristina howard
"First time here with my wife and son. $9 to get in for adults . It was a nice, little farm. Not too many people , parking was easy. Overall good experience."
Fabio D'Ambrosio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Drumlin Farm is located in Lincoln, MA, about a 30-40 minute drive from Boston. If you're driving, take Route 2 West. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is parking available at Drumlin Farm. It can get busy, especially on spring weekends when the baby animals are born, so booking parking in advance is recommended during peak times.
While possible, it's challenging. Public transport options to Lincoln are limited. If you don't have a car, consider ride-sharing services or checking for local shuttle services that might operate in the area.
From Boston, take I-90 W to exit 14 for I-95 N towards NH/Maine. Take exit 49 for MA-2 W towards Concord. Continue on MA-2 W for about 5 miles and take the exit for Lincoln. Follow signs for Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary.
Public transportation to Drumlin Farm is not straightforward. The nearest MBTA commuter rail station is in Lincoln, but it's still a significant distance from the sanctuary. It's best to plan for a car or ride-share.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are typically around $9 for adults, with reduced rates for seniors and children. Members of Mass Audubon get free admission. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing.
It's highly recommended, especially during peak seasons like spring when baby animals are present. Booking parking and tickets online in advance can secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Yes, Mass Audubon offers memberships that provide free admission to Drumlin Farm and other sanctuaries. Check their website for membership benefits and pricing.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. Generally, the sanctuary is open daily, but it's best to check the official Drumlin Farm website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
Absolutely! A Mass Audubon membership grants you free admission to Drumlin Farm and all other Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuaries, making it a great value if you plan to visit multiple locations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of farm animals like cows, horses, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, and rabbits. They also have native wildlife exhibits featuring animals like foxes, skunks, hawks, and owls.
No, Drumlin Farm is a working farm and wildlife sanctuary, not a petting zoo. While you can observe the animals closely, direct interaction like petting is generally not permitted to ensure the animals' well-being.
Yes, Drumlin Farm has extensive nature trails that wind through fields and woodlands, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural scenery.
The prime time for baby animals is during the spring, typically from March through May, when lambs, piglets, and chicks are born.
Generally, pets are not allowed at Drumlin Farm to protect the sanctuary's wildlife and farm animals. Service animals may be permitted, but it's best to contact them directly to confirm their policy.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
Drumlin Farm does not have on-site restaurants or snack bars. They do have a small gift shop that sells a limited selection of bottled beverages and frozen treats.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy picnics at designated areas within the sanctuary. There are many scenic spots perfect for a packed lunch.
Yes, there is a gift shop at the entrance that offers nature-themed gifts, toys, children's books, and some beverages and frozen treats. Proceeds from the shop help fund Mass Audubon.
Drumlin Farm operates a farm stand where you can purchase seasonal produce, honey, and fresh eggs, depending on availability. They may also sell meat products from their livestock.
The nearest dining options are in the towns of Lincoln or Concord, which offer a variety of cafes, casual eateries, and restaurants. It's about a 5-10 minute drive from the sanctuary.
📸 📸 Photography
The barnyard with the animals, the scenic nature trails, and the fields with crops offer great photo opportunities. Springtime with baby animals is particularly photogenic.
Yes, photography of the animals is generally allowed, but always be respectful of their space and avoid disturbing them. Some areas might have restrictions, so observe signage.
Drones are typically not permitted at wildlife sanctuaries to avoid disturbing the animals and other visitors. It's best to check Drumlin Farm's specific policy on drone usage.
Wildlife photography, farm life photography, and nature photography are very popular. Capturing the baby animals in spring is a common highlight.
It can be, but animals are unpredictable! Early mornings or late afternoons might offer better light and more active animals. Patience is key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The farm animals are easily visible, and the nature trails offer space for little legs to explore. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on-site, as there are no food vendors. Look into their educational programs, like preschool sessions or summer camps, which are highly regarded for engaging children with nature and farming.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking involved. Booking tickets and parking in advance is a good idea, especially for spring weekends. 🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
The sanctuary's commitment to conservation means you're exploring a well-preserved natural environment. It's a peaceful escape where you can connect with local flora and fauna. The trails are generally well-maintained, making for an enjoyable experience.
🍎 Foodies & Sustainable Living Advocates
Learning about their working farm operations offers insights into sustainable farming methods. It’s an educational experience for anyone interested in where their food comes from and the importance of supporting local, eco-friendly agriculture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Working Farm Experience
This dual nature provides a richer educational experience. It's not just about observing animals; it's about understanding the connection between land, food, and conservation. The farm's commitment to sustainable practices is evident throughout the property, offering a valuable lesson for visitors of all ages.
Wildlife Care and Conservation
Visitors can see native species like red foxes, various birds of prey (hawks and owls), and other local fauna in carefully designed enclosures. These exhibits serve an educational purpose, highlighting the importance of protecting local ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. The sanctuary's efforts contribute to the broader conservation goals of Mass Audubon.
Educational Programs for All Ages
The sanctuary's educators are passionate about sharing their knowledge of wildlife and sustainable farming. Whether it's learning about bird identification, understanding farm-to-table concepts, or exploring the local habitats, there's something for everyone. The interactive nature of these programs makes learning engaging and memorable for young visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit