Kids
Little Alexandria: Life on the Farm


Life on the farm is in our backyard!
By Erica Barker
ALEXANDRIA,VA–Did you know that there is a living farm museum run by the National Park Service right across the Potomac River? Last month, my son and I took a trip to the Oxon Hill Farm in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Located just minutes from Old Town, Oxon Hill Farm is my new favorite place to enjoy learning about animals and life on the farm. And best of all, it’s free!
This expansive farm has cows, horses, pigs, and chickens, with beautiful red barns and other buildings that house the animals and antique farm equipment. Each day the farm schedules special events geared towards kids. My son got to watch a cow-milking demonstration where kids could take turns milking the cow (my son declined), feed chickens, and enjoy a long wagon ride. These events are led by National Park Service rangers who are very knowledgeable and great at involving the kids in taking care of the animals.


Oxon Hill Farm and Park is located at Bald Eagle Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland, and is open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. [Check the website for specific directions: www.nps.gov/oxhi/index.htm] Also, with kids who may get tired walking, I recommend bringing a hardy stroller. There is a long gravel road to walk from the parking lot to the farm (and it feels much longer carrying a 40 lb. toddler!). Oxon Hill Farm and Park is well worth a trip and I highly recommend planning a visit soon.

