Queens County Farm Museum

Flush up against Nassau County, on the eastern edge of Queens ("Deep Queens"?), is a place that feels less a part of New York City and more like Long Island. As a working farm, this place, now known as the Queens County Farm Museum, dates all the way back to 1697.

With farm animals, hayrides, a corn maze right now, and free admission, this outdoor museum gets packed with families with children on a sunny weekend. On a warm sunny fall day there was even a a field strewn with pumpkins, generously called a "pumpkin patch."

There's even live music – on this day, a band that plays only songs from the '60s. They were good. They also added to the impression that we weren't in New York City any more, but in the strong orbit of suburban Long Island.

And where else can you find a hayride within the five boroughs?

The goats are a big hit with children – and grown-ups.

And who doesn't love alpacas?

It wouldn't be a canonical farm without pigs and chickens.

The farm grows crops too, enough not just for educational purposes but to sell.

As for the maize maze, we took the easy way: around instead of through.

The museum also invites history buffs into the Adriance Farmhouse. The home's original three-room form dates back to 1772. It's been added to in the intervening centuries, and the conservators have done a nice job setting up rooms to reflect different centuries of habitation.

The farmhouse has been restored nicely, with original elements like floors and some windowpanes. The museum offers tours of the house, also free.

What self-respecting farm wouldn't have a barn?

The farm is a good spot to take urban kids to learn about where food actually comes from, and to see animals and have some outdoor fun. Its sheer size is also a great feature for explorers looking for spaces to walk around at length without worrying about getting run over by a vehicle. Just gotta look out for those hayrides...

The Queens County Farm Museum is open seven days a week from 10 to 5, year-round except major holidays. There's a seasonal farmstand that sells fruits, vegetables, flowers, and herbs grown right on the farm. Also eggs. And free parking.

So don't be sheepish. Hop on a city bus, or into your car if you've got one. The Farm awaits.

All photos © Oren Hope