In a matter of minutes, my kids fed a zebra, petted a camel, watched buffalo grazing in a field, and felt the giant horns of a Texas longhorn. And they were asking when were we coming back even before the safari ride ended.
Joy and wonder were high as we traveled on a wagon across 63 acres of farmland, which for eight years has been the setting for Hidden Valley Animal Adventure Park. This family-fun attraction is about an hour’s drive from Rochester, due south of Batavia in the small town of Varysburg.
Other exotic animals along the ride are llamas, elk, bison, water buffalo, and ostriches. Admission includes a cup of grain to feed to the animals and admission into the Small Animal Adventure, where you can feed friendly animals like donkeys, goats, and kangaroo.
Nestled in a rolling valley, Hidden Valley is a special place to escape from the ordinary for a little while. Tours run through October, and in winter the guided wagons are replaced by sleigh rides.
The main lodge of the park features a restaurant that resembles an Adirondack Great Camp, complete with antler chandeliers and cozy fireplaces.
If You Go
Location: 2887 Royce Road, Varysburg
How far from Rochester: One-hour drive
Admission: $18.75 adults; $17.25 seniors (65+); $14.75 children ages 3-10; free children two and under. Includes safari and trolley ride and Small Animal Village.
Accessibility: Safari tours are wheelchair accessible and one restaurant is accessible.
Restaurants on site: Two with waiter service
Learn more: hiddenvalleyadventure.com/animal-park/ or 585-535-4100
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