If you are looking for something new, interactive and fun to do this summer, Blackberry Farm is the place to be. Located just outside of Chicago in Aurora, IL it is known for its reenactment of pioneer life through educational demonstrations and hands on activities. Open May through September and admission for non residents is only $9 for ages 2 and up! But once a month Blackberry Farm also hosts family FREE days to all Illinois residents.
Contrary to popular belief, there are no Blackberries at Blackberry Farm! The name derives from Blackberry Creek, which runs along the east side of the park and can be seen while riding the train and hay wagon.
Most of my friends who have visited Blackberry Farm before warned me that the park is typically busy but especially on FREE days. Because this was our first time, we decided to go on a regular but super HOT day and that worked out perfectly for us. We pretty much had the park to ourselves. It was not busy at all. The kids were able to run around, learn, play and ride around with minimal lines. Besides some of the attractions are not available on free days so we did not miss a thing.
The admission included unlimited rides on the train, hay wagon, pedal tractors, paddle boats, carousel and ponies. Parking is always free and they have plenty of picnic areas as well. However if you forget your lunch, like we did, there is a concession stand that offers a great summer menu at reasonable prices.
We saved the best for last and that was the pioneer life! Historical sites. The kids were in awe and had so many questions. All of the attendants were super knowledgeable and friendly. The best part were the hands on experiences. These are the pieces of history offered.
Another things that I though was super important for parents of little ones is the stroller rentals. If your little ones get tired or you just happened to forget your stroller, Blackberry Farm has some available for rent at only $8 for a single and $10 for a double.
They also offer birthday party packages and I thought that was amazing. My little ones would love to have their birthday here. Their friends could have hours and hours of fun at a really reasonable price too!
I hope you get a chance to visit this little gem and if you do, please come back and tell me what you think.
Also don’t forget to tag me in your Instagram stories/ photos so I can follow your summer adventures as well and maybe try one of your favorite summer spots @hazel.eyes.mom
x, Dijana
More info:
100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora, Illinois ● 630-892-1550
On select Wednesdays throughout the summer, Blackberry Farm hosts Family Fun Days that provide FREE admission for Illinois residents as part of a statewide free museum days promotion. All guests must have a valid ID providing proof of Illinois residency.
Please be advised that Family Fun Days tend to be quite crowded. Large crowds will result in longer wait times for rides and attractions. Blackberry Farm reserves the right to refuse admittance when park attendance reaches capacity. Admission will be closed during these times and allowed only in accordance with guests exiting. For the safety of patrons and our ponies, Pony Rides close at noon and the zipline is not available on Free Days.
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