Eldridge Farm at the Sonoma Develpmental Center

If you are looking for a place in Sonoma County to take your preschooler where he/she can become familiar with a variety of animals, drive out to Eldridge Farm and let your preschooler explore! Located on the campus of the Sonoma Developmental Center, Eldridge Farm houses such animals as ducks, miniature donkeys, chicken, peacocks, rabbits, pigs, and many more.

When you drive up, you will notice many barn type buildings as well as a duck pond and some outdoor corrals. There are a couple of picnic table areas for guest of the farm to enjoy snacks or lunch.  They even offer hayrides, tours and parties if you call ahead for reservations (a campus use permit is required).

Benefits to Preschoolers

Being able to see animals and observe their behavior is educational for preschoolers in so many ways. The people who work there are willing to answer any questions your preschooler may have and may even let your preschooler help feed the animals!

Disadvantages to Preschoolers Visiting Eldridge Farm

The biggest disadvantage is that you cannot pet all of the animals no matter how much your preschooler wants to. Obviously, it is for the benefit of the animal’s health but when a preschooler sees a cute little bunny or guinea pig and can’t touch it, it may be a bit of a disappointment. Also, there are signs posted everywhere about not feeding the animals “anything.” Again, it is to keep the animals healthy but if you are lucky enough to be there during feeding time, one of the employees may let your preschooler help.

Tips for Your Visit

Bring hand sanitizer and wet wipes! This is not a place for keeping your preschooler clean. To extend your visit, bring a lunch or snack and enjoy it at the various picnic table areas. Also, this is a little bit of a drive from Santa Rosa, check their website for directions (Sonoma Developmental Center site) and be sure you know where you are going because it is “off the beaten path.”

Details

Cost is free
Hours are 8:30am to 4:30pm daily

Eldridge Farm
Sonoma Developmental Center
15000 Arnold Drive
Eldridge, CA
707-938-6337

From Arnold Drive in Eldridge, turn east at the flashing light and continue through three stop signs and uphill until you see the duck pond on the right, about a half-mile from the light.