While snacking on yogurt or noshing on a grilled cheese sandwich, it’s only natural for kids to wonder where cow’s milk comes from or if a cow sleeps standing up. At Lavon Farms in Plano, families can learn all about Jersey cows during a walking tour, which includes an authentic milking demonstration inside the barn.
Lavon Farms has been a cherished part of Todd Moore’s family since 1936 when his Dallas-based grandfather decided to buy a farm in the good old country—Plano. Although the area is a bit more developed nowadays, the farm, owned by Moore, his wife Deanna and their two sons, has plenty of room to thrive within its 200 acres.
With fall in full swing, the farm will resume its tours this month during business hours on Mondays through Fridays. To schedule a tour, it’s best to call at least a day or two in advance and give a 24-hour notice for cancellations. Tours generally last around 45 minutes and begin with a viewing of a few cows and calves up close. Although it’s not considered a petting zoo, the kiddos will take great pleasure in observing the dairy-producing creatures. Don’t forget to bring a camera, because the kids can have a photo op with one of the 30 cows at the farm.
After the creature investigation, patrons are led along a rocky path and will pass by a vintage grain bin where the farm used to store feed. Continuing down the path, you’ll arrive at a white barn with a milking parlor and watch the entire milking process. As machines milk the cows, the liquid travels to a refrigerated bulk tank, which holds up to 640 gallons. The demonstration is followed by a Q&A session where kids ask everything from the names of the cows to what breed makes chocolate milk—talk about a chocolate lover’s fantasy!
At the end of the tour, families can have a picnic lunch outdoors while enjoying the retro farm scenery. But, the day at the farm wouldn’t be complete without visiting the farm store to stock up on some dairy goodies including Grade A raw milk, various cheeses, caramel and more. They also carry their Lucky Layla Farms drinkable yogurt with yummy flavors including banana and exotic guava. And, if you happen to be fortunate enough to be around for the occasional delivery of fresh eggs from the Moores’ East Texas farm, you’ll want to grab a carton because they go fast! Forms of payment accepted in the store include cash and checks with the anticipated addition of a credit card machine by this month.
Next time the kiddos visit the dairy section at the grocery store, they’ll know all about the origins of the creamy products thanks to the staff at Lavon Farms.
Lavon Farms 3721 N. Jupiter Rd., Plano, 972/423-8080; lavonfarms.com.
Hours: 9am-6pm Mon-Sat.
Admission: Tours are Mon-Fri. $3 adults; $2 kids (up to age 16).
