Screen Free Saturday: 3 Phoenix Petting Farms You Don’t Want To Miss
Let’s be honest—most of us are juggling screens all day long. So if you are looking for something to do in Phoenix, and tired of being on the screen keep reading
From work emails to kids’ tablets, it’s hard to unplug. That’s why we’re officially declaring Screen-Free Saturday a thing. And what better way to spend a digital detox than by getting outside, petting some adorable animals, and reconnecting with each other?
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Whether you’ve got toddlers, teens, or grandparents in tow, petting farms are a hidden gem when it comes to family fun. So if you’re hunting for North Phoenix things to do that are low-tech but full of memory-making potential, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 3 Phoenix petting farms that are perfect for your next screen-free Saturday adventure.
1. MacDonald’s Ranch (Scottsdale)
Location: 26540 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
Drive Time from North Phoenix: ~25 minutes
Why Families Love It:
MacDonald’s Ranch is like a cowboy-themed playground for kids (and grown-ups too). You’ll find classic favorites like pony rides, a petting zoo full of friendly goats, chickens, and donkeys, and even a stagecoach ride if you time it right.
During cooler months, they also run seasonal events like a pumpkin patch and Christmas festivities—which means you can visit more than once and have a different experience every time. (their pumpkin patch is super fun btw)
Pro Tips:
- Don’t forget your cowboy boots! The dusty trails make for fun photo ops.
- The general store sells cold drinks and snacks.
- Most areas are stroller-accessible.
Screen-Free Highlight: Pony rides and feeding animals by hand = zero time for iPads.
2. Superstition Farm (Mesa)
Location: 3440 S Hawes Rd, Mesa, AZ
Drive Time from North Phoenix: ~45 minutes
Why Families Love It:
If you’ve never milked a cow or seen where your cheese comes from—this is your chance. Superstition Farm gives kids a real farm experience. They offer guided tours where little ones can learn about dairy cows, hop on a hayride, and meet a variety of rescue animals.
It’s also one of the few places that mixes education and fun seamlessly, making it a hit with curious kids and animal lovers.
Pro Tips:
- Tours must be booked in advance.
- Bring your own water—it gets warm quickly on the open farm.
- They sell fresh local dairy products (perfect for an afternoon treat).
Screen-Free Highlight: The hands-on learning experience keeps kids engaged and off their screens without even trying.
3. Tolmachoff Farms (Glendale)
Location: 5726 N 75th Ave, Glendale, AZ
Drive Time from North Phoenix: ~30 minutes
Why Families Love It:
A fourth-generation family farm, Tolmachoff Farms offers a sweet slice of rural life without leaving the Valley. Their petting zoo includes goats, sheep, and chickens, but the farm is also known for its you-pick produce, corn mazes in the fall, and tractor-pulled rides.
Depending on the season, your visit might include picking your own veggies or strawberries—which adds a fun “farm to table” twist. (I didn’t even know this existed until this blog so definitely check it out)
Pro Tips:
- Check their website for seasonal hours and events.
- Closed-toe shoes are a must.
- Bring a small basket or bag for produce if you plan to pick.
Screen-Free Highlight: Letting kids pick their own food (and meet the animals who help grow it) is a total win for attention spans and conversation starters.
What to Pack for Your Petting Farm Day
- Water bottles (stay hydrated!)
- Sunscreen and hats
- Hand sanitizer or wipes (post-petting cleanups are a must)
- Snacks or a picnic lunch
- A backup change of clothes for little ones (you never know…)
Why Petting Farms Are the Ultimate Family Outing
Sure, we love a good trampoline park or indoor play center—but there’s something special about the slower pace of a farm. No flashing lights. No loud speakers. Just real moments—watching your toddler belly-laugh at a goat nibbling grass or seeing your teen crack a smile during a tractor ride.
And for parents? It’s a break from being “on” all the time. These spots offer fresh air, animals, and a reason to unplug right alongside your kids.
Bonus: Turn It Into a Full Day
If you’re up for more exploring, each of these farms is near even more north Phoenix things to do:
- After MacDonald’s Ranch, grab lunch in Old Town Scottsdale or hit up Gateway Trailhead for a short family hike.
- From Superstition Farm, swing by Usery Mountain Regional Park for a scenic picnic.
- After Tolmachoff Farms, pop over to Glendale’s Historic Downtown for a treat or some antique browsing.
All of these are awesome options, and because it can be hot at times-what better way to cool off than a splash pad? Check out our blog about the best splash pads in North Phoenix, and stop by and get wet!
You could always wrap up the day with an awesome meal with some beautiful scenery, right? Enjoy reading our guide to best patio dining in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Final Thoughts: Making Memories, Not Just Plans
You don’t need a big vacation or an expensive day out to create core memories with your family. Sometimes all it takes is a goat, a patch of sunshine, and no notifications for a few hours.
And if you don’t want to go where the “masses” go, visit some of North Phoenix’s hidden gems.
So this weekend, skip the screens. Load up the car, head to one of these 3 Phoenix petting farms, and enjoy one of the most wholesome north Phoenix things to do you can find.
Despite being a desert, we have plenty of farms. If you didn’t know a lot of our land was farm before. These super fun farms can be found throughout the Valley and are a must-see!
We’ll see you out there—boots, giggles, and all.