Best Petting Zoos Near Greenville, SC
Greenville, SC boasts many of the attractions that you’d expect from a southern city. But there are many hidden gems throughout the region, as well.
One of those hidden gems is one you can find in your own backyard (or at least in your own neighborhood). Petting zoos provide plenty of fun and excitement for children of all ages.
With many to choose from, it’s difficult to know which one you should try first; luckily, we’ve got you covered. While some of the places listed are farms, they still offer great petting experiences. Here’s our full list of the best petting places in Greenville, SC.
1. Ballyhoo Petting Zoo
This small petting zoo near Travelers Rest features a few animals and lots of fun for little ones. The goats will make you smile as they frolic around and eat treats from your hand.
The owner works hard to keep his property clean and well-maintained so that his family can enjoy nature together in a safe way. Although you may have to dodge some mud puddles on your way through Ballyhoo Park, it’s worth it for all of the animal antics! Oh, and don’t forget about Sparkle, their resident potbellied pig!
“Great environment and friendly staff. There’s a variety of animals to pet and feed. Very interactive place. My kids loved the prairie dogs and bunnies the most. I highly recommend it for all kids.”
2. Greenville Zoo
The Greenville Zoo in downtown Greenville is an educational and conservation-focused zoo that offers guided tours, live animal presentations, and more. Children of all ages will be delighted to see animals up close at the petting zoo.
Visitors can meet a variety of creatures, including goats, alpacas, donkeys, ponies, sheep, tortoises, and armadillos. More than 200 animals make their home at the 1/2 mile-long park.
The zoo also has a 2/3 mile nature trail that winds past picturesque ponds. Visitors can view various species of birds as they paddle around or swim on top of their watery homes.
“was fun.. it took about a 1½ hrs to see the entire zoo. A good place to have fun and learn. It is sad that some of these animals are almost extinct.”
3. Hollywild Animal Park
Situated in Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina, Hollywild Animal Park offers visitors a close-up look at more than 80 domestic and exotic animals. The petting zoo features traditional barnyard creatures such as goats and alpacas. It also houses some more exotic species such as ring-tailed lemurs and Red River hogs.
“Our family had an awesome time at Hollywild Animal Park this weekend. We did the “Cuddle with Cubs” animal encounter and it was AMAZING! The cubs were adorable! We thoroughly enjoyed interacting and feeding them. You may get some slobber on you but it is definitely worth it to spend time with these fluffy little guys. Hailey was helpful, friendly, and professional in scheduling the appointment as well as answering all our questions about the cubs during the encounter. We also had a great time doing the Safari drive through the park, getting up close, feeding, and interacting with the animals. If you’re in the area, take advantage of this great opportunity to spend time with these cubs or at least drive through and feed the animals.”
4. Moo Cow Farms
If you’re looking for a kid-friendly petting experience that’s free and open to all ages, Moo Cow Farms is your best bet. There are plenty of farm animals to see—horses, alpacas, cows, and sheep.
They have an array of activities for kids such as corn hole boards and a bounce house. For food lovers, there are also plenty of traditional picnic foods available for purchase on-site.
5. WNC Nature Center
Bring your family to experience all of what WNC Nature Center has to offer. Spend a fun-filled day on their six-acre wildlife sanctuary, complete with one mile of hiking trails through mature forest and beaver ponds.
This oasis is home to more than 1,000 animals including some exotic creatures you might not get to see every day! While it seems small at first glance (and let’s face it—it is), there’s plenty for kids to do here.
“Great visit! Would definitely recommend it for those with kids. Paths are paved, so fine for wheelchairs too.”
6. On Again Off Again Alpaca Farm
While there aren’t many petting zoos in Greenville (unfortunately), if you’re looking for a place where your kids can get their hands dirty, On Again Off Again Alpaca Farm is sure to delight. Kids will love interacting with these gentle and unique animals.
Plus, who doesn’t love a farm visit? While it might not be a traditional petting zoo per se—kids will still have fun feeding and petting these friendly animals.
“Super awesome… Alpaca baby born the morning that we visited it was absolutely precious… For knowledgeable staff and very friendly”
7. Hidden Pasture Unicorn Farm
For a more magical experience, head to Hidden Pasture Unicorn Farm just outside of Greenville. Guests can take part in pony rides and pet unicorns (yes!), though reservations are required for these experiences. The farm also features campfires and hayrides for added fun.
“We loved it. The people there are super friendly. The kids loved the train ride, inflatable slide, and all the animals.”
8. Riverbanks Zoo
When it comes to choosing a petting zoo in the greater Greenville area, Riverbanks Zoo has been entertaining adults and children of all ages for over 90 years. The Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is one of only 16 Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoos in South Carolina. This is a great attraction for birthday parties as well as animal lovers of all ages that want to enjoy an interactive experience with their favorite animals.
9. Carl Sandburg Home & Goat Barn
The Carl Sandburg Home & Goat Barn is a great option for a petting zoo excursion. The farm has regular hours of operation and you can even call in advance to arrange birthday parties and group events! If your children are big Sandburg fans or if you’re looking for somewhere to take them on a day trip, then check out his homestead.
“Cool place to check out. A lot was closed, likely due to Covid. Still could see the goats and wander around. Was nice even though it was raining.”
If you or your kids are anything like me, you cannot wait to get to these zoos and have a meaningful animal reaction. I hope this list gave you the information you needed to go out and experience this part of your life.
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