Visit to Frying Pan Farm

With the National Zoo closed and limited options to do in the DMV area during the pandemic, Frying Pan Farm & Park is a nice little outing for the family to see some farm animals. It’s about 40 minutes away from DC in Fairfax County, Virginia — an easy shot out to Herndon on 66W.  One side is a small park with a playground structure and carousel (not running), and the other side of the parking lot is the farm and Equestrian Center .

We went in the afternoon and it was pretty quiet; there were only a few families around, everyone was wearing masks and were being very respectful of social distancing. 

The parking was extremely easy. We just hopped out of the car, crossed a driveway and onto the farm. Visitors had strollers, dogs on leashes and some kids had brought their bikes even. It’s free, (donations are welcomed) and there are no frills. 

The first thing you’ll see, smell and hear are the pigs joyfully snorting around the dirt. They’re huge!

Pigs at Frying Pan Farm

The farm was pretty bare bones and quiet — just what we were hoping for. If you’re interested in seeing lots of farm animals in a short period of time, this is the place! There is no feeding or petting, at least right now with Covid, but it’s still enjoyable just to look. Apparently they have a daily 4pm cow milking session, but it may not be open to the public in the pandemic. I think now you have to book for a private tour for that. We saw a cow crossing over to get milked, but weren’t able to watch.

Cow being walked to the barn to be milked

The animals on the farm include: horses, pigs, chickens, goats, turkeys, ducks, sheep, peacocks and a rabbit — animals common to farms of the early 1900s. The farm says it preserves and interprets early 20th century farm life. 

Goat at Frying Pan Farm

Fluffy turkey at Frying Pan Farm

Cow eating from trough

Interesting old tractor equipment

Tractor play area

Horse @ Frying Pan Farm, VA

Frying Pan Park with carousel and playground, view from parking lot.

It was pretty cold, so we didn’t hang out too long nor visit the playground, but still think it was a good little free field trip. There is also a drive-thru Starbucks and small shopping center nearby. 

We’d definitely be interested in coming back to watch the horse-riding at the equestrian center. They also have Bluegrass concerts, festivals and other events at other times of year that might be fun to check out. 

We didn’t see the store or restrooms nearby, but they are likely by the equestrian center. I would suggest bringing a travel potty for the little kids. See the handy items below.

Location

What are your favorite DMV outings during the pandemic?

Would love to hear your experiences and tips!

HANDY ITEMS TO CARRY

• Alcohol wipes
• Regular wipes
• Travel potty (great for the car!)
• Snack box
• Water bottle / Thermos
• Freezable lunch bag
• Sweatless Ice pack

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