Located on the grounds of Claude Moore Park, the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum, whose mission is to bring to life the county’s rich agricultural history, displays relics from region’s past to entertain and inform adults while little ones up to 6 years old explore the space’s hands-on play areas.
“Visitors are often surprised to find such a family-friendly historic site right in their own backyard,” shares Christie Love, museum co-director.
Themed rooms are stocked with authentic props that encourage little imaginations. Kids can pretend to cook in an old-fashioned farm kitchen, take turns working at the Waxpool general store, and role-play in a one-room schoolhouse. Equestrian fans can groom horses and even take a simulated ride in the Kentucky Derby. Little ones can also pedal a tractor, milk a lifesize model of a cow, and pretend to collect eggs from chickens.
“The Museum provides [an] intergenerational, hands-on experience for families to share in an educational setting that is hard to find these days,” says Love. “Grandparents and grandchildren alike can relate to each other over our interactive exhibits.”
Additionally, the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum frequently runs special events such as a Spring Farm Tour in May featuring lambs from Frying Pan Park Farm and, in the summer, Dairy Day featuring live cows. Also on list of event offerings, there is a monthly Kids’ Night at the Museum event, Toddler Tuesdays, summer camps and programs for scouts.
A private party cabin can be rented for those hoping to celebrate their birthday at the museum.