Little Farm - Tilden Park, Berkeley

During the Holidays a couple of years ago we took the boys to Tilden Regional Park to ride the Carousel and visit the Little Farm. It was at the end of the day, and the farm was closing down for the night. So, other than being able to view into some stalls and see a couple of pigs, goats and cows we didn't really see how magical this place is.

Tilden Park is located in the Berkeley hills, not far from my parent's house. Last Saturday armed with a wreath purchased in a Cub Scout fundraiser for my parents we headed to Tilden Park to do the wreath drop-off, visit the farm and ride the Carousel.

On the way there we found out that this time of year the Carousel is only open after 5:30 pm. Decked out with lights it is a sight to behold, but only after dark. Of course we weren't planning to stay there that long, so the Little Farm would have to do.

When we entered the farm we were greeted by three large and friendly cows. The Little Farm lets you bring in celery and lettuce to feed the animals there, and the cows were looking for some food. Of course we didn't remember this, so we just gave them a pet hello, and proceeded to visit the other animals.

Next to the cows were the poultry -- chicken, turkey and ducks -- all very friendly. We watched chickens escape the enclosure walk around the yard a little bit, and then climb back in. The boys also liked seeing the bunnies in the hutch. We then climbed the hillside to see the goats, sheep and young cows. It was awesome.

And you couldn't beat the price... free parking and admission. We'll probably ride the carousel on Christmas Eve when we're in the vicinity again visiting my parents. Next time we'll remember celery for the animals too.