In a fast-paced, screen-filled world, Domino’s Farms Petting Farm offers families a refreshing opportunity to reconnect with nature, animals and each other. Nestled in Domino’s Farms, the petting farm has become a beloved destination for parents, grandparents and visitors seeking a wholesome, memorable outing. With a wide range of animals, interactive experiences and seasonal events, the farm provides hands-on learning and simple joys that resonate across generations.
Adam Bishop, who has served as manager for four years, says the farm’s charm lies in its ability to help visitors slow down and enjoy small, meaningful moments.
“In today’s world of instant everything, I think people really appreciate moments and places where they are forced to slow down and are captivated by the world around them,” Bishop said. “I think The Petting Farm is one of those places. A place for families to come and slow down and laugh about how silly the duck is walking or be captivated by the babies or just sit and listen to the chickens. It can be one of the most stress-relieving activities to sit in the barn and pet a cat or sit by the playground with the chickens all around while your kids play on the playground.”
A barnyard full of variety
Visitors to Domino’s Farms Petting Farm will find an impressive range of animals that delight guests of all ages. From traditional farm favorites to more unique residents, each animal contributes to the farm’s interactive and educational atmosphere.
“We have Cows, Horses, Pigs, Llamas, Alpacas, Goats, Sheep, a Turkey, a Tortoise, Ducks, Peacocks, Chickens, Guinea Fowl, Rabbits, Cats and Bees,” Bishop said. “One of my favorite questions is to ask children what their favorite animal is and I love to hear the variety but Goats, Sheep—especially Lambs—, Horses, Rabbits and Cats are usually the favorites.”
Beyond simply observing animals, visitors are encouraged to engage with them. The farm offers animal feed for purchase, helping guests coax animals closer for memorable interactions.
More than just animals
While the animals are a major attraction, the farm offers several additional experiences that keep families entertained for hours. Interactive and imaginative play spaces help create a full day of fun and discovery.
“There are farm animals to pet, some will let you pet them, some need to be coaxed to you, and some will rarely get close enough,” Bishop said. “We offer animal feed for purchase to get them closer. We also have a 1923 Conrail Caboose that kids love to play pretend in, a playhouse, a playground, a model interactive milking cow named Maggie, an observation bee hive where you can see inside a working beehive, hayrides are offered seasonally, we have a bunny interaction area that we built in the fall that allows kids to be in with the bunnies when we have the staff/volunteers to run it. We will also be expanding our playground area this spring to include some more used tire play structures, an interactive rubber duck race and hopefully more.” (fundraising is in progress).
Learning through experience
Education is a central part of the farm’s mission. Through signage, technology, and direct interaction with staff, children and adults alike gain a deeper understanding of farm animals and their behaviors.
“In our pole barn our guests can find facts listed for each animal, we also have installed QR codes around the farm that once scanned will take you to a page that tells you the names and some facts about that species of farm animal,” Bishop said. “I also believe that just being at the farm, children learn how animals actually sound and act. It can be quite surprising for kids to learn that some sheep can be quite loud and that horses don’t neigh that often and that a pig’s oink sounds more like a deep grunt. I really work to encourage a work environment where staff interact with visitors so that they can learn something about our animals.”
Creating a comfortable environment for kids
For younger visitors, stepping into a barn full of animals can sometimes feel overwhelming. Bishop notes that the farm has intentionally created safe and flexible environments to help children feel comfortable at their own pace.
“First thing is that we don’t allow kids to go into the animal pens. There is always a barrier between them and the animals, which helps most kids feel safe,” Bishop said. “Sometimes the animals in the barn can be a little overwhelming for children, and that is why it is nice to have our outdoor pastures with a lot of the same animals behind a fence. Our outdoor pastures provide a quieter space for children who feel overwhelmed to become comfortable with the animals on their own terms. With time and familiarity, the barn often becomes their favorite place at the farm.”
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A multigenerational experience
The farm is designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, from toddlers experiencing farm animals for the first time, to grandparents revisiting memories of rural life. Accessibility and relaxation are key priorities.
“A lot of grandparents have stories about working on a farm, and The Petting Farm is a great place for them to remember those sights and smells so they can share their stories. Parents often have a favorite animal they like to see, and I think it is a relaxing place for them as well, because they can let their kids explore while still keeping an eye on them,” Bishop said. “We try to make the entire farm accessible to wheelchairs. Our pasture pathways can be a little bumpy for wheelchairs, but strollers—and even electric wheelchairs or scooters—navigate the pathways easily.”
Planning your visit
While visitors can enjoy a quick stop, many families find themselves lingering longer once they arrive.
“I would recommend at least 1 hour, but you can bring a lunch and sit at one of our many picnic tables and spend a few hours here,” Bishop said.
Throughout the year, seasonal attractions and events provide even more reasons to return. From baby animals at springtime to festive holiday celebrations, the farm evolves with the seasons.
“We try to have a few babies every spring. This year we have several goats expecting, a few sheep, and we are hoping to purchase some new additions as well. In the summer we have several little events and promotions planned like Train Weekend where our model train display will be set up, or Shearing Weekend, and Twilight at the Farm where we stay open until sunset,” Bishop said. “In the fall we have Fall Fest which has expanded from one day into a whole weekend. It’s our largest event of the year with food trucks, activities, entertainment, and crafts! Then we have Santa and Mrs. Claus visit in December.”
Moments that make the farm special
For Bishop, the most rewarding part of working at the petting farm is witnessing the simple, joyful moments that happen naturally throughout the day.
There is often a really special moment for me when the weather is just perfect and there are a few families at the playground—moms and dads sitting on the benches, kids playing, and chickens under the playground giving themselves dust baths in the mulch. It’s quite unique to the farm, and kids love it. I often think, ‘This is what it is all about,’” Bishop said. “I also get a burst of joy watching kids feed the animals and seeing their pure excitement when a sheep grabs a carrot and pulls it into its mouth. Kids can’t get enough of it.”
Tips for visitors
Guests are encouraged to plan ahead to make the most of their visit.
“Bring food for your family. While I would love to provide a food option, we can’t offer much more than chips and pop, and there isn’t really a place nearby to get food,” Bishop said. “Also, wear sunscreen. I would love to receive photos from your visit, and with your permission, share them in our newsletter and on social media. Please send them to info@pettingfarm.com.”
A place to pause and connect
Whether families are looking for educational opportunities, outdoor recreation, or simply a peaceful place to spend time together, Domino’s Petting Farm offers an experience that blends entertainment with meaningful connection. Through hands-on animal encounters, seasonal celebrations, and an inviting atmosphere, the farm continues to be a treasured destination for the community.
Domino’s Farms Petting Farm is located at 3001 Earhart Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. During winter, the farm is open Monday–Friday 10am–2pm and Saturday 10am– 4pm(closed Sundays). It is recommended to check their Facebook page for updates, particularly in bad weather.
