Take a Tour of a Working Dairy Farm

Casey and Alison, brother and sister, were both born in Arizona, both went to high school and college in Arizona, and now run the family farm in East Mesa. Their desire to share their knowledge of dairy farming and rural life with children and families of the metro Phoenix area led them to continue where Dugan's Dairy Farm in Chandler left off when that farm discontinued tours in 2006. In December of that same year Superstition Farm opened up their family farm and began offering tours.

A typical tour of Superstition Farm begins in the barn, where Farmer Casey talks to the tour participants of the day about the farm and about the cows. The discussions are interactive, and are geared toward the general age group involved.

See the Cows and Learn

Enough talking about cows--let's get out and see them! The hayride takes the group all around the dairy farm. There are over 1,000 cows here. You'll learn which cows are in which areas and why, you'll see bulls, pregnant cows, baby cows, cows going off to the milking barn--maybe even a cow giving birth, if you're lucky! You'll see cows doing the things that cows do, and learn why they do those things.

You'll learn how the farm operates, and how all that work translates into the dairy products that we buy at our local grocery stores.

Pet Farm Animals

For many children, the highlight of the tour happens after the hay ride, when they travel back to the barn to feed the goats. The animals in the petting area are all rescued farm animals.

When the kids have had enough of the animals (if that ever happens) see how they do getting around the hay maze. They'll probably have to do it at least twice.

Feed the Horses

Not only can you feed the horse, but you can also attend a horse camp (separate program from the farm tour), where twice a week you can come to Superstition Farm and be taught to groom, saddle, feed, and handle a horse. Of course, the best part of horse camp is riding the horse!

Who Should Visit Superstition Farm

Everyone from pre-schoolers to adults can enjoy and benefit from the Superstition Farm tour. From the little one who delights in petting the bunnies and the goats and the chickens, to the teenager who wants to learn more about caring for farm animals and how a dairy works. Of course, even adults have a good time at the farm.

At Superstition Farm you and your children can take a step into the world of dairy farming in the metro Phoenix area, before all the family dairy farms are forced to move to make way for residential and commercial development.

Where
Superstition Farm is located near Elliot Road and the Loop 202 in East Mesa. Here's a map and directions to Superstition Farm.

How Much (March 2011)
13 and older: $7.50
12 & under: $5.50
Babies in arms: Free
Special group/school pricing is available.

Dates/Hours
Variable! As far as the summer goes, Casey and Alison say that as long as people want to come see the farm, they'll open it up for a tour. On Saturdays there are walk-in tours at 10 a.m. and again at noon (call to verify during the summer).

For more information, to check on tour hours, or to arrange for a special group, visit Superstition Farm online or call 602-432-6865.

_{All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.}

Here are a few things you'll want to know before you head out to the farm.

1. The dairy farm tour is subject to the outdoor elements. In the spring and summer, it can get pretty hot.
2. Although there are plenty of shady spots, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
3. You don't get to milk a cow on this tour.
4. Tours usually take between 1 and 2 hours, depending on how much time the kids (and older folks) want to spend petting the animals.

1. You may bring food for a picnic lunch. Eating takes place on picnic-style tables outside, in the shade.
2. Restrooms are of the porta-potty variety.
3. Wear long pants if you are bothered by sitting on hay. Wear comfortable shoes, and watch where you step.
4. The environment at Superstition Farm is simple/rustic. While they have plans to add buildings and more facilities, it will happen over time.
5. You can now shop for cute cow stuff, toys, games, candy, fresh eggs, cheeses, local jams, honey and Udder Delights homemade ice cream at the Mooster's Moo-tique, the Superstition Farm store. Credit cards accepted.
6. Bottled water is available for purchase, but you can also bring your own. At the end of the tour, mosey up to the milk bar and choose from 12 flavors of milk (small charge).

One more thing--don't forget to bring the camera!