The Queens County Farm Museum is the only one of its kind to be found in New York City. This historic museum's land has been farmed as far back as 1697. This tract of 47 acres forms an oasis in the middle of the city, providing a unique experience for many city dwellers.
The Queens County Farm Museum is a working farm that uses farm equipment, vehicles, and tools of the trade. There is a greenhouse with a wide selection of plants of many kinds, a charming barn, and historical buildings. In addition, the museum hosts a wide variety of special events and educational programs.
Special Events at the Queens County Farm Museum
The Queens County Farm Museum offers a number of special events. For example, visitors can enjoy an Easter egg hunt that includes a hayride, an egg rolling game, doing a dance on the lawn, interacting with animals, and, of course, fun! Additional warm weather events include a carnival --complete with rides, games, and a midway. There is also an Antique Auto Show that features antique autos and accessories, hayrides, tours, and food. Farm Fest is another event that embraces spring and involves getting to know the farm's baby animals.
Educational Opportunities and Programs
"Honey Bee Alive" is a series of activities that teach visitors about honeybees and their place in the world. Included in this program are making candles from bee's wax and making honey sticks.
Another program that stimulates learning about animals while having a great time is the "Twenty-One Day Eggsperiment." This program follows a chicken from egg to hatching. The "From Sheep To Shawl" program teaches guests how wool is transformed into thread. This activity includes a visit to the sheep and a hands-on look at a finished sample of the woven wool.
Horticulture in the Limelight
An Apple Pressing Workshop, followed by cider making, is another popular feature of the Queens County Farm Museum. In the workshop, there are programs designed to cultivate an interest in horticulture, such as the "Greenhouse Workshop." During this program, guests are exposed to several species of plants ranging from tropical to desert. In addition, guests have the opportunity to plant seedlings and to discuss their project with instructors.
Additional Activities
The Queens County Farm Museum also offers workshops on Colonial cooking that are directly targeted toward children from 4th to 8th grade. The program illustrates the consideration and work involved in meal preparation during Colonial times. During the event, guests get to cook on an open fire as soup and cornbread are prepared. In the autumn, a Pumpkin program examines pumpkins and vine plants and take a specimen home with them.
Visiting the Queens County Farm Museum
The Queens County Farm Museum is a wonderful resource for children and adults who wouldn't normally have access to this type of rural experience in an urban environment. It provides peace and stillness in the midst of the hectic day-to-day life in the city. It is also a great place to become acquainted with farm animals, as well as the agricultural lifestyle of the founding fathers. There are plenty of activities that showcase regional history through hands-on experience.
The Queens County Farm Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm. It is located at 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park New York 11004-1129 and can be reached by phone at (718) 347-3276
