Harvest Seeker

Start your day at the Muirhead Farmhouse in Hampshire. This Frank Lloyd Wright architectural gem is a centerpiece of the Muirhead family farm legacy. (Check their schedule for public tour dates!) Head just a few minutes north to Enjoy Pioneer Farm, where you can hold baby animals in the spring and pick pumpkins in the fall. We also recommend making a quick detour to Prairie View Garden Center before heading to Pingree Grove for the afternoon. Garden enthusiasts come from all over to check out this unique garden center and market store. You will not want to leave without a pie or two.

No trip to Pingree Grove is complete without a stop at The Milk House Ice Cream. Their ice cream is made in small batches right on the property using local ingredients. This is not your everyday vanilla: flavors include sweet corn blueberry, salted cantaloupe, and peach lemonade sorbet, to name a few.

Whether you are bringing the kids or just want to experience one of the area’s largest attractions, Goebbert’s Farm in Pingree Grove is sure to entertain. Check the website ahead of time to see what is in season for the “U-Pick” vegetable fields or spend the afternoon picking apples or pumpkins. Whatever you decide to do, you will have lots of photo opportunities throughout the farm.

Continue east to Randall Oaks Zoo in West Dundee. This isn’t your typical zoo; it’s set on a sprawling hill with a heavy emphasis on farm animals, pony rides, and a massive petting zoo area that feels like a high-end barnyard. If you visit in the wintertime, here’s an insider tip: locals consider this a prime sledding hill.

If you have not already checked into your Elgin Area hotel, this is a great time to take a break and get that handled.

End your day at Plank Road Tap Room. This 107-year-old cabin is the “Harvest Seeker’s” unofficial headquarters. Grab a craft beer or cider, find a seat in the massive wooden beer garden, and enjoy dinner from a rotating selection of local food trucks.

Start your morning in the most relaxing way we know: surrounded by goats and finding your zen. Head toward Reverse the Kerrs Farm for an “Ultimate Farm Experience.” Stretch out with a yoga session while friendly goats wander through the class— it’s the best way to decompress.

After a relaxing start to your morning, visit one of the area farm stands to gather everything for a farm-to-table picnic. Klein’s Farm and Garden Center on Plank Road is conveniently on the way back to the next stop. Another great option on the far east side of the Elgin Area is Tom’s Bartlett Farm Stand, which is celebrating its 65th anniversary.

Lords Park and Zoo is the perfect outdoor spot to end your trip. This historic Elgin park features a resident herd of bison, elk, and deer all year, with barn animals joining them during the summer months. It’s a peaceful spot to see majestic animals in a setting that feels like a step back in time.

Make memories that matter—volunteer as a family with the Boys & Girls Club of North Central Illinois. Find upcoming opportunities at bgcncil.org/volunteer.