A Free Day at the Queens County Farm Museum

Out at the eastern edge of Queens, the Queens County Farm Museum dates back to 1697 and occupies New York City's largest remaining tract of undisturbed farmland: 47 acres of fields, woods and barns that form one of the longest continuously farmed sites in New York State. It is a working farm rather than a petting zoo, with goats, sheep, alpacas, steer, pigs and hens living in their paddocks and coops, and a historic farmhouse at its center. For city kids, and plenty of adults, it is a startling reminder of what most of Queens used to be.

The grounds are open year-round and free on most days, apart from ticketed event days, so check the calendar first. Pick up a site map at the Farm Store and Welcome Center. Feed the animals only with food sold on site, stay outside the fences, and keep out of the growing fields; no picking produce or flowers. Pets aren't allowed, and there's no cycling, rollerblading or scootering on the grounds, though there is a bike rack. Strollers are welcome. Driving is easiest, but local buses serve Little Neck Parkway.