Ask any teacher and they'll tell you: kids remember what they experience. You can read about how alpacas have padded feet instead of hooves, or you can watch one walk right past you. You can look at a picture of a porcupine, or you can hear one squeak. That's the magic of a farm field trip, and it's one of my favorite things we do at Eagle Eye Farm.
A classroom with fur, feathers and quills
With more than 130 animals across 14 species, our farm is basically a giant living science lesson. Students can meet alpacas, Taz the llama, goats, Kune Kune pigs, Valais Blacknose sheep, English Angora bunnies, mini Highland cattle, chickens, peacocks, donkeys, porcupines and even kangaroos. Every animal opens the door to a different conversation:
- Biology: Why do kangaroos have pouches? Why do Highland cattle have bangs?
- Geography: Where in the world did these animals come from? (Hint: a lot of places that aren't Wisconsin.)
- Agriculture: Where does fiber come from, and how does it become a pair of socks?
- Responsibility: What does it take to feed, clean and care for animals every single day?
Learning that sticks
The best part of a field trip isn't the facts. It's the moment a quiet kid lights up because a goat picked them. It's a group of students arguing about whether the alpaca or the bunny is fluffier. It's the questions they ask that you never would have thought of. Those moments build curiosity, empathy and a love of animals that lasts.
Clean, safe and easy for teachers
We know teachers and chaperones have a lot to juggle. The farm is known for being exceptionally clean, with our crew picking up after the animals multiple times a day. Our staff help guide students and keep things running smoothly, so you can enjoy the day too. We're about 35 to 40 minutes from Minneapolis-St. Paul, with free on-site parking.
Tips for a great school visit
- Have students dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes.
- Talk about farm manners ahead of time: gentle hands, calm voices, and always listen to farm staff.
- Bring hand sanitizer for after animal time.
- Encourage kids to come with a question they want answered.
Let's plan your trip
School group visits are set up directly with us. Our "Along the Fence" school tours are $10 per student. Check out our school field trips page for details, and email kerri@eagleeyefarm.net to get your group on the calendar. Our animals love a busload of new friends (especially the ones who are hoping someone dropped a snack).
