Family-Friendly Animal Encounters Brenham Adventures

Facebook Tweet Pin LinkedIn

Brenham might be famous for its ice cream, but there’s more to this little Texas town than scoops of French Vanilla. For families craving fresh air and furry friends, Brenham delivers hands-on adventures. Here are five family-friendly animal encounters to fill your weekend with giggles, squeals, and maybe even a few selfies alongside Brenham’s most lovable locals.

Snuggle Miniature Cows at Milk & Honey Ranch

Small long haired brown calf in a field — Families can book cow cuddling sessions at Milk & Honey Ranch in Brenham. Photo Credit: Milk & Honey Ranch

Soft as clouds and sweeter than you’d expect, Highland mini cows at Milk & Honey Ranch are the stars of one of the most unique animal experiences in Texas. Book a cow cuddling session online—spots fill quickly—and get ready to brush, pet, and bond with Penny and friends. Their slow blinks and warm nuzzles soothe even the most high-energy kiddos.

Insider Tip: Wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dusty—this is a real working ranch. Book a cabin on-site and you’ll get early access to animal visits and a shot at collecting fresh eggs before breakfast. Bring a cooler if you plan to buy eggs—they’re sold by the dozen.

Are you ready to explore off the beaten path? Let us inspire you!

Alpaca Adventures at Peeka Ranch

Three alpacas at Peeka Ranch. — Families can feed alpacas right from their hands at the Peeka Ranch. Photo Credit: Jennifer Simonson

If you’ve never met an alpaca face-to-face, prepare for some seriously adorable eye contact. Peeka Ranch introduces families to these quirky, gentle animals with impossibly expressive eyes and pillowy-soft fleece. Kids can feed alpacas right from their palms, experiencing firsthand how surprisingly polite and soft-mouthed these sweet animals can be.

Visits are by appointment only, so call ahead. And be sure to bring hand wipes. Alpacas don’t drool or nip, but feeling them can be messy.

Ride the Trails at Rockin’ Star Ranch

Two women on horseback in Brenham, Texas. — Saddle up and spend an afternoon enjoying Brenham on horseback. Photo Credit: Rockin’ Star Ranch.

Pull on your boots—Rockin’ Star Ranch makes it easy for first-time riders to saddle up and hit the trail. Friendly guides teach basics before matching each rider with the right horse. Have a little, little one? Tiny Trots is perfect for young kids who aren’t ready for full rides.

Once you’re set, follow shaded paths through meadows and woods for a peaceful ride. After your ride, stay for a swim in the ranch’s outdoor pool or book one of the ranch’s seven cabins if you want to make it an overnight visit.

Feed Goats at Chappell Hill Lavender Farm

Little boy taking a break in the shade after gathering lavender at Chappell Hill Lavender Farm. — Kids can feed miniature goats, harvest lavender or just enjoy the shade at Chappell Hill Lavender Farm. Photo Credit: Visit Brenham, Texas

Between the lavender fields and the bleating of mini goats, the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm feels like a storybook come to life. Feed hay to Fonzie, Oreo, and Moonshine—three miniature goats who steal the show. Be sure to bring quarters or small bills for goat feed. The farm’s low-key vibe, shady picnic spots and Lavender-scented breeze make it a relaxing stop.If your timing is right, you can snag a juicy blackberry straight off the vine for a sweet treat.

Insider Tip: Lavender blooms peak May through July and again in late summer. If you’re sensitive to bees, pack bug spray—they’re friendly pollinators, but they’re buzzing.

Watch Farm Life Unfold at Barrington Plantation

Horse pulling kids at Barrington Plantation. — Barrington Plantation teaches kids how life was in the 1800s. Photo Credit: Natalie Lacy Lange

Kids won’t get to pet the animals at this one, but they’ll still learn plenty. Barrington Plantation is part of Washington-on-the-Brazos Historic Site. Costumed interpreters show how livestock were raised and farm chores were handled in 1850s Texas—by hand, without electricity or modern tools. Expect milking demos, wood-fire cooking, and plenty of wide-eyed questions from curious kids.

Visit during a weekday for smaller crowds. If you’re homeschooling or want extra context, check out speciality programs like their “What Would Sallie See?”, which brings history alive for younger visitors with games and age-appropriate lessons on food and farming.

What Are the Best Petting Zoos in Brenham?

Milk & Honey Ranch tops the list for interactive experiences, followed by Peeka Ranch for alpaca feeding and Chappell Hill Lavender Farm’s friendly goats. While Barrington Plantation doesn’t offer traditional petting, it gives kids a rare look at how animals were raised long before zoos and ranches as we know them.

Are There Farms in Brenham Where Kids Can Interact With Animals?

Yes—several. Milk & Honey Ranch and Chappell Hill Lavender Farm allow direct interaction with animals. Peeka Ranch offers guided feedings, and Rockin’ Star Ranch gives kids the chance to learn horsemanship and riding. For a more observational experience, Barrington Plantation presents a working 1850s farm.

What Are Some Other Family-Friendly Activities in Brenham?

When you need a break from animal time, swing by Fireman’s Park to ride the antique carousel or visit Blue Bell Creameries for a scoop of their hometown-famous ice cream. Lake Somerville State Park is just outside town and perfect for hiking, fishing, or stretching out with a picnic.