This Michigan Farm Lets You Meet Camels, Sloths, And Kangaroos Between Fall Adventures

A pole barn packed with 2,000 bushels of corn sits on the same property as kangaroos you can meet up close. Yes, really. That combination alone made me stop scrolling.

This fifth-generation working fruit farm in West Michigan also keeps camels, lemurs, capybaras, and an armadillo. Over 100 animals live here. I like how the farm part never gets pushed aside by the zoo part.

You can book time with sloths or otters on select dates. Then you can wander off to pick apples or launch them from a cannon. I can’t imagine a kid, or a grown-up, saying no to that lineup.

I believe the best family outings mix the familiar with the surprising. A corn maze is familiar. A kangaroo resting its paws on your lap is not. So how do you fit it all into one day?

Sloths, Otters, And Kangaroos Are Worth Booking Ahead

Kangaroo paws on your lap might be the best greeting a farm can offer. That kind of moment happens during the special Animal Encounters here.

These add-on experiences let small groups get close to animals like sloths, kangaroos, otters, lemurs, and capybaras. Many include feeding time and chances for photos.

A Zookeeper Experience is another option. It typically brings guests close to kangaroos, capybaras, and lemurs with a staff guide along for the ride.

These encounters cost extra beyond general admission. They’re also offered on select dates, so reserving early is the smart move.

Otters do what otters want, of course. Their mood can shape how active the visit feels, so keep expectations flexible.

Staff guides share rules and tips before you start. Listening closely helps everyone, including the animals, stay comfortable and safe.

Adults without kids shouldn’t skip this part. These encounters work just as well for animal lovers of any age.

If you’re splurging on one thing, make it this. A sleepy sloth up close tends to beat any souvenir from the gift shop.

Exit 140 Leads To The Wild Side Of The Farm

Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo is at 4180 West M-20 in New Era, Michigan. Take U.S. Highway 31 to Exit 140 and head east onto M-20, also called Stony Lake Road.

The farm entrance is about a quarter mile east of the interchange on the left. Look for the large farm-market and attraction grounds rather than continuing deeper into New Era.

Follow the property’s marked parking and admission signs, then enter the attraction grounds to reach the zoo section. The 2026 fall season runs through November 1, and premium animal encounters require separate reservations.

Fall Turns This Place Into A Full-Blown Festival

Autumn is when Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo really shows off. The fall season typically runs from September into early November.

An epic corn maze headlines the season. Getting a little lost is part of the deal, so wear comfortable shoes.

The pumpkin patch brings that classic Michigan fall scene to life. Kids can hunt for the perfect pumpkin while parents snap photos.

Wagon rides add a slower, cozier pace between the busier attractions. They’re a nice break for tired legs.

Fall visits also mean seasonal treats and apple activities. U-Pick apples come with an extra cost, but they pair perfectly with crisp weather.

Weekends in fall can get very busy. If your schedule allows, a weekday visit could make lines at the market much shorter.

Dress in layers for a day outdoors. Mornings can feel chilly, and afternoons may warm up quickly.

Arriving early gives you the best shot at the maze before the crowds roll in. You’ll also have more time left for the animals afterward.

Fall in West Michigan doesn’t get much more festive than this.

A Barn Full Of Corn Beats Any Ball Pit

Two thousand bushels of corn. That’s what fills the Corny Barn, a massive pole barn built for digging, burying feet, and general silliness.

It’s included with general admission, along with more than 40 other attractions. That’s a lot of value for one wristband.

Unlimited barrel train rides are part of the package. So is a cheerful carousel that little kids can ride again and again.

The giant jumping pillow keeps bouncers busy for ages. Pedal carts, a Ball Town, and a low ropes course round things out.

Big kids and adults can test their strength at the High Strikers. A hay bale hoist offers another fun challenge.

Playgrounds and big slides add even more energy-burning options. Families with mixed ages will find plenty to split up and enjoy.

One small warning about the Corny Barn. Kernels love hiding in shoes and pockets, so shake out before getting in the car.

Same-day re-entry is allowed with your general admission wristband. That makes it easier to take a break and come back for round two.

Apple Cannons Might Be The Best Bad Idea Ever

Launching apples at targets sounds like something a kid dreamed up. At Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo, it’s an actual attraction.

Apple cannons are one of several extra-cost activities. They let you aim and fire fruit across a field, which is oddly satisfying.

Gem mining is a calmer pick. Kids can sift for colorful treasures and take their finds home.

Prairie dog fishing is another quirky option worth a look. The name alone makes people curious.

Outpost Paintball offers a shooting gallery for anyone with a competitive streak. Teens and adults tend to love it.

The bird aviary is a sweeter stop. Guests can feed parakeets using special seed sticks, and the birds often flutter right over.

Since these cost extra, decide ahead which ones matter most. A quick family vote in the parking lot can save debates later.

Mixing one or two add-ons with the included fun keeps the day balanced. Nobody needs to do absolutely everything.

Still, try not to skip the apple cannons. Where else can you fling fruit and call it farm fun?

Your Lunch Options Are Way Better Than Fair Food

Hungry kids can derail a great day fast. Luckily, the food lineup here covers a lot of cravings.

The Grill handles classic American comfort food. Think cheeseburgers, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken tenders, the signature Cowboy Burger, and homemade country nachos.

The Rusty Rooster leans toward Mexican flavors. Street tacos, quesadillas, and burrito bowls are on the menu.

Salt + Twist is the snack stop. Pretzels, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and kettle corn make easy grab-and-go fuel.

In fall, The Pig Pen joins the party. It serves Caramel Apple Cups and the curiously named Tornado Potato.

Having several spots helps families with picky eaters. One person can grab tacos while another goes for tenders.

Eating a bit earlier or later than the noon rush is a smart plan. It leaves more time for animals and attractions during peak hours.

Seating is available near the eating areas. Grab a table, refuel, and map out your next move.

A good lunch can be the difference between happy kids and grumpy ones. Choose wisely.

Save Room, Because The Bakery Plays Dirty

Fresh donuts, sticky buns, and homemade fudge all live under one roof. The farm market and bakery make leaving empty-handed nearly impossible.

Pies, cinnamon rolls, cookies, and specialty breads fill the shelves too. Fresh produce adds a little balance to the sweet stuff.

During the fall festival, apple cider sundaes are a must-try. They fit the season perfectly.

Coffee lovers have their own spot. Lewis Coffee Co. serves specialty coffees, teas, and fresh pastries for a morning boost.

Parents chasing kids all day will appreciate that caffeine stop. It’s a small break that makes a big difference.

The market can get busy, especially on fall weekends. Shopping earlier in the day could help you dodge longer lines.

Planning to bring treats home? Stop by near the end of your visit so baked goods stay fresh for the ride.

Fudge makes a fun gift for friends who couldn’t come along. Of course, keeping it for yourself is also allowed.

No judgment here either way.

Summer Visits Come With A Splash Pad Bonus

Fall gets the spotlight, but summer brings its own perks. Splash Acres keeps kids cool when the Michigan heat rolls in.

A splash pad was added in 2023. New features that year also included a climbing wall at the high ropes.

Packing a swimsuit or change of clothes is smart for warm days. Wet kids in dry car seats rarely end well.

Restrooms are spread around the grounds, which helps families with little ones. A gift shop offers souvenirs to remember the day.

The farm is kid-friendly and welcomes buses. That makes it a solid option for school trips, camps, and big groups.

Free parking is another nice bonus. Fewer surprise costs means more room in the budget for animal feed.

Sunscreen and water bottles belong in every summer bag. Outdoor days can stretch longer than you expect.

Same-day re-entry gives flexibility too. Families staying nearby can head out for a rest and return later.

Summer or fall, the fun just changes outfits. Which season fits your family best?

The Drive Is Easy, And The Lakeshore Is Close

Finding the farm is refreshingly simple. Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo sits at 4180 West M-20, New Era, Michigan 49446.

It’s right off US-31 at Exit 140 on M-20. No winding back roads or confusing turns required.

The location puts you near West Michigan’s lakeshore. That makes it a handy break from beach days along Lake Michigan.

Families camping or vacationing in the area can easily slip a visit into their plans. Same-day re-entry makes splitting the day even easier.

The farm is usually open Wednesday through Sunday, with Monday and Tuesday closed. Hours can change by season, so check before heading out.

Buying tickets online ahead of time can save some money. It also cuts down on waiting at the entrance.

Give yourself at least several hours here. Between animals, attractions, and food, time disappears fast.

Weekday mornings tend to feel calmer than busy Saturdays. Plan accordingly if crowds aren’t your thing.

Camels, corn barns, and caramel apples, all off one highway exit. Michigan, you’ve outdone yourself again.