Lake Metroparks Farmpark is open

By Mimi Vanderhaven

Making a return to all the joyful things we used to love before the “P” word hit around this time last year, one of Mimi’s favorite outings will be to Lake Metroparks Farmpark in Kirtland, which reopened on Friday, March 5.

There’s nothing more invigorating than interacting with animals up close and personal, and learning about their habitats and behaviors. Check out the Farmpark’s indoor exhibits with farm animals and meet different breeds of horses in the Arena.

To ooh and aah over the wee ones, don’t miss newborn piglets, lambs and calves in the Well Bred Shed. One-way directional signage provides guests with a safe viewing experience.

And for throwback to yesteryear experiences, you can view antique tractors in the Hilltop Machinery Barn and enjoy pony rides on Saturdays and Sundays.

Another signature only-in-Lake-County treat is maple sugaring. During the month of March, enjoy the sweetness of maple sugaring, from tree to table, with demonstrations on Fridays and fun activities on Saturdays and Sundays. Hop on a wagon ride to the Woodland Center and see sap being collected from tubing connecting 1,000 taps. Then see how it’s boiled down to syrup.

You can also buy delicious maple syrup, candy and maple stirs while there.

“As we reopen, safety will continue to be our first priority to protect our employees, guests and all of the animals in our care,” says Farmpark Administrator Lee Homyock. “Farmpark provides a connection to our agricultural roots, helping people understand where our food and fibers come from.”

Lake Metroparks provides more than 3.5 million visitors with countless recreational and educational experiences. Lake Metroparks Farmpark is located at 8800 Euclid Chardon Road in Kirtland. It’s open Friday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $6-$8 for ages two and older. Those under two, those who are Farmpark members and active military and their families are admitted free. To ensure the safety of all visitors, they follow local and state health mandates and protocols for mask-wearing and social distancing. For a schedule of maple sugaring activities, go to LakeMetroparks.com/farmpark.