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The 7 Best Animal Encounter Experiences In And Around Seattle

If you’re the kind of person who stops to say hi to every dog on the street, this list is for you.

Seattle isn’t just about coffee and rainy days—it’s also packed with places where you can meet, feed, and even snuggle up to animals you never thought you’d get this close to.

We’re talking fluffy alpacas, squeaky piglets and curious goats.

seattle animal encounters map graphic

Get ready to meet eight of the most fun, furry, and totally unforgettable spots around Seattle where you can have your own up-close animal moment.

1. Swans Trail Farms, Snohomish

Swan Trail Farms in Snohomish is a big, family-run farm located about 30-40 minutes northeast of Seattle.

It’s famous for its fall festivals, apple orchards, and adorable animal experiences.

You can feed goats, pet fluffy bunnies, visit piglets, and even watch duck races (yes, real ducks racing!) while surrounded by mountain views and rows of pumpkins in the fall.

There’s also a giant corn maze shaped like Washington State, apple picking, tractor rides, and tons of photo ops with barnyard animals.

2. Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle

Cara_VSAngel / Flickr

Right in the heart of Seattle, Woodland Park Zoo is where you can get up close with animals from all over the world, without ever leaving the city.

You’ll see everything from red pandas munching on bamboo to giraffes stretching their necks for snacks.

During summer, head over to the ‘Family Farm’ area where you can get the chance to touch a friendly goat or sheep.

You can even hand-feed a tiny parrot in the Willawong Station aviary.

zoomar / Flickr

The zoo’s tropical rainforest is steamy and packed with monkeys and sloths, and their award-winning penguin exhibit brings you face-to-face with waddling cuties that splash just inches away.

3. The Red Barn Farm, Redmond

Tucked into the quiet edges of Redmond, The Red Barn Farm is a charming little spot where you can meet friendly farm animals and feel like you’ve stepped into the countryside for the afternoon.

Kids (and grown-ups!) can pet goats, groom mini donkeys, and giggle at chickens doing their silly chicken things, all while learning about farm life in a super hands-on way.

They also host fun seasonal events like pumpkin patches, and even birthday parties in a real red barn.

4. Cascade Rose Alpacas, Carnation

Just a short drive from Seattle, Cascade Rose Alpacas in Carnation is where you can hang out with fluffy, wide-eyed alpacas in the middle of peaceful farmland.

You’ll get to walk them on a leash (yes, like a very fashionable, furry dog), feed them treats, and snap tons of selfies with their goofy little grins.

It’s small, personal, and super relaxing.

If you’re into cute animals, the peace and quiet of the countryside, and a whole lot of alpaca snuggles, then it’s the perfect place for you.

5. Sammamish Animal Sanctuary, Renton

Over in Renton, the Sammamish Animal Sanctuary is a rescue farm where every animal has a story and you’re invited to be part of it.

You can cuddle rescued cows, feed carrots to horses, and spend time with goats, pigs, and even a turkey or two, all in a super loving, volunteer-run space.

It’s all about kindness, connection, and giving farm animals a happy forever home, which makes every visit feel extra special and meaningful.

The most unique thing about this place is probably the goat yoga though.

That’s right, here they have weekly yoga sessions where the goats join you in stretching out and finding your inner peace.

6. Maris Farms, Buckley

Maris Farms in Buckley is like a giant fall festival and animal adventure rolled into one, set against views of Mount Rainier that’ll make your jaw drop.

There’s a whole barnyard full of animals to meet—think baby goats, calves, ducks, and bunnies.

Plus you can even watch pig races and even cheer for your favorite.

In October, it turns into Halloween central with a massive corn maze, themed events like the ‘Haunted Woods’, and enough pumpkin-spiced everything to make your head spin.

7. Old McDebbie’s Farm / Jim’s U-Fish, Spanaway

Down in Spanaway, Old McDebbie’s Farm and Jim’s U-Fish is the ultimate mix of farm animals and fishing fun, all rolled into one quirky, family-run spot.

You can pet llamas, feed goats, hug a fluffy Highland cow, and then grab a pole to catch rainbow trout from their pond.

There’s also a playground, pony rides, and nature trails, making it the perfect place to spend a fun day out getting a bit muddy and making some furry friends.


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