Things to do in Iowa, United States: The Best Farms

Hansen’s Dairy is a family-owned on-farm creamery in Hudson, Iowa. The Hansen family has been farming the same land for more than 150 years. Since 2004, we have been making our own dairy products. We are truly farm to table! Hansen’s “legendairy” products include milk, cheese curds, butter, heavy cream and ice cream. We do agritourism to help our customers connect with their local food. If you're looking for something to do in Iowa, our dairy farm tour is educational and entertaining! Admission includes a trolley ride to the farm, then a walking tour to see our animals and facilities. All participants can feed a calf, milk a cow by hand, pet the kangaroos (yes, real kangaroos!) and goats, make homemade butter, sample our milk and cheese curds, and eat our premium, old-fashioned ice cream. Ages 4 and older, $15; ages 3 and younger, free. Tours begin at 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, April 1-Oct. 31. Must have reservation. Book at https://hansendairy.com/farm-tours or call.

We are a family run apple orchard located in Jefferson, Iowa. From humble beginnings dating back to 1917, Deal's Orchard has grown to its present size of 45 acres, selling our produce in many central Iowa grocery stores. We have over 25 varieties of Iowa apples as well as tomatoes, sweet corn, pumpkins, holiday gift baskets, and plenty of other seasonal fruits and vegetables. In 1999 we planted our first crop of Scotch Pine trees and now have a wide selection of Christmas trees on our Tree Farm. In 2011 we started our newest adventure by becoming only one of two establishments in the state of Iowa to produce hard cider. All of our cider is pressed, fermented, and bottled at our orchard.

In summer we feature plants, fresh veggies, fruits, and Farm to Table Dinners. In Fall our 40 acres of pumpkins, squash and gourds turn our farm into a harvest haven along with two large play areas for families of all ages to enjoy, a 10 acre corn maze, wagon rides and special fall events. In November we transform into a winter wonderland featuring fresh cut trees, wreaths, roping, and gift items.

Bloom and Bark LLC consists of owners Kim (the boss) and self-taught glass blower Tim Blair. Primarily, we blow glass, we sell glass and we love glass. Creating beautiful art from fire, gravity, and air is something that is inspiring to many, yet it is an ancient skill that few practice today. Tim creates in a complete Hot Shop working in his new Open Air Studio during the summer months. The glass blowing hot shop is located adjacent to the Local Artisan Market, housing an eclectic display of not only his work, but the work of various artist and their mediums all located within a 100 mile radius of Van Buren County. Bloom and Bark offers a unique option for anyone looking for a gift, a splash of color in their decor or an experience that will last a lifetime. Come join us on the farm!

Come with the whole family and experience 'A little country...in the city!' Grab a wagon, some clippers, your camera, and the kiddos and enjoy getting a 'little dirty' while on the hunt for the perfect fall decor or jack-o-lantern. We have a variety of sizes and shapes sure to satisfy everyone's needs. Fun for all ages like hayrack rides, play area, newly expanded 10-acre corn maze!

Living History Farms is located in the western suburbs of Des Moines, Iowa in Urbandale and is conveniently located right off Interstates 35/80. It is an interactive outdoor museum which educates, entertains and connects people of all ages to Midwestern rural life experiences. 300 years of agricultural history are represented including a 1700 Ioway Indian Farm, 1850 Pioneer Farm, 1900 Horse-Powered Farm and an 1875 town. Tours are self guided and historic interpreters are at each farm site are dressed in clothing from each era to explain what it would have been like to live in that time. The general touring season is May 1 through October 14th. Many special events and historic dinners take place in the off-season. Visit the website for details.

This farm is famous for its Maytag Blue cheese.