Centennial Farm
A charming, free farm in Costa Mesa offering animal encounters, educational gardens, and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal interaction
Centennial Farm
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, free farm in Costa Mesa offering animal encounters, educational gardens, and a peaceful escape.
"A must-go for families, this free farm is packed with adorable animals and educational fun!"
🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking is available! Use the gate across from Vanguard University for farm access.
💰 Donation Encouraged
While admission is free, donations help support the farm. Consider donating for free produce!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Adorable Farm Animals
Various enclosures
Meet and greet pigs, cows, goats, sheep, chickens, and more! Baby animals are a frequent highlight.
Educational Gardens
Throughout the farm
Explore diverse crops, learn about gardening, and discover how fruits, vegetables, and even honey are produced.
Interactive Learning
Demonstration areas
Witness cow milking demonstrations and learn fascinating facts about farm life and animal behavior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Fun & Family Time
Best Times to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking is available! Use the gate across from Vanguard University for farm access.
💰 Donation Encouraged
While admission is free, donations help support the farm. Consider donating for free produce!
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as much of the farm is outdoors. :athleticshoe: :sunwith_face:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture cute animal moments and beautiful garden scenes. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking is available! Use the gate across from Vanguard University for farm access.
💰 Donation Encouraged
While admission is free, donations help support the farm. Consider donating for free produce!
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as much of the farm is outdoors. :athleticshoe: :sunwith_face:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture cute animal moments and beautiful garden scenes. :camerawithflash:
⏰ Check Hours
Hours can vary, especially during OC Fair season. Always check their website before visiting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Centennial Farm for its free admission and the delightful experience it offers, especially for children. The variety of animals and educational aspects are frequently highlighted as major draws. While some note its size, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-visit family-friendly spot in Orange County.
"Tiny but plenty of species. Both animal and plants. Kids having fun here, a nice place to learn how plants grow and observe the animals."
Jessie Mott
"I really enjoyed my visit to Centennial Farms at the Orange County Fair. I learned about oxen, saw newly born piglets, and watched a cow milking demonstration."
Denise Parker
"Loved attending the 35th birthday of the farm ! such an amazing experience hanging out with the animals. my favorites were the Holstein cows and pygmy angora goats ! was also lovely with live music and beautiful gardens and the goody bag provided such sweet souvenirs. it was also super educational too- I didn't know little piggies could have fun playing with big rubber balls ! 10 outta 10 would go again"
Rebecca Simonton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Centennial Farm is located at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, within the OC Fairgrounds. The recommended access point for the farm and parking is the gate across from Vanguard University.
Yes, parking is generally free at Centennial Farm. However, if there are major events at the OC Fairgrounds, parking fees might apply, or access could be limited. It's best to confirm on their website. 
Driving is the most common method, with free parking available. Public transportation options to the OC Fairgrounds area can also be explored, though direct farm access might require a short walk.
While specific routes may vary, the OC Fairgrounds area is generally served by local bus lines. Check with your local transit authority for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules.
Centennial Farm may have limited access or be closed during OC Fair events. It's crucial to check the OC Fair schedule and Centennial Farm's specific hours before your visit. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Centennial Farm is completely free! This makes it an excellent option for families and budget-conscious travelers looking for fun activities.
No, advance ticket purchase is not necessary as admission is free. You can simply show up during their operating hours. +2
Centennial Farm is typically open Monday through Friday from 1 PM to 4 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM. However, hours can change, so always verify on their official website.
Centennial Farm usually closes for the summer season around the end of June. It's advisable to check their website for the exact closing date each year.
Yes, Centennial Farm hosts 'Discovery Days' on select dates, offering special activities like chick petting. Check their website for upcoming event schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of farm animals including pigs, cows, goats, sheep, chickens, oxen, bunnies, and peacocks. Baby animals are often a highlight!
Absolutely! Centennial Farm is highly recommended for families and children. It's educational, interactive, and offers hands-on experiences with animals and gardening. +7
You can learn about how plants grow, different crops, animal husbandry, and the importance of agriculture. They often have demonstrations and informative displays. +2
Weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. Weekends can get busier, especially during peak hours or special events.
While direct petting opportunities might be limited for certain animals, you can get very close to observe and interact with many of the farm animals. +1
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
Centennial Farm itself does not typically have food vendors. Visitors are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is permitted, making it easy to have a picnic during your visit.
Yes, the surrounding Costa Mesa area offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, a short drive away from the OC Fairgrounds.
Donating to the farm can sometimes earn you free produce, so it's worth inquiring about this possibility when you visit.
Costa Mesa has a diverse culinary scene, including American, Mexican, Asian, and Italian cuisines, catering to various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The animal enclosures, vibrant gardens, and rustic farm structures offer numerous picturesque opportunities. Don't miss the chance to capture close-ups of the animals!
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. It's a great place to capture memories of your family's visit and the charming farm environment.
While generally permitted, it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially around sensitive areas or during demonstrations.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the charm of Centennial Farm. For more professional shots, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens would be ideal.
Drone usage is typically restricted at public venues like the OC Fairgrounds for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check the official policies regarding drones before flying one.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the animals, the farm offers educational opportunities about gardening and agriculture. Interactive demonstrations and the chance to observe crops growing provide a hands-on learning experience that's both fun and informative. It's a perfect place for little ones to explore, ask questions, and develop a love for nature and where their food comes from. Remember to bring snacks and wear comfortable shoes for a full day of exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
+7This makes it an ideal stop for backpackers, students, or anyone looking to enjoy a quality activity without breaking the bank. You can spend hours exploring the farm, observing animals, and learning about agriculture, all while keeping your wallet happy. Packing your own snacks and water will further enhance the budget-friendly nature of your visit.
❤️ Couples & Date Ideas
It's a low-pressure environment perfect for conversation and shared experiences. The free admission makes it an easy and spontaneous outing. Consider visiting during the late afternoon for a golden hour glow that adds a romantic touch to the rustic farm scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Day at Centennial Farm: What to Expect
Visitors can expect to see a variety of farm animals, from playful piglets and curious goats to majestic cows and clucking chickens. The farm also boasts beautiful gardens showcasing different crops and horticultural practices. Interactive demonstrations, such as cow milking, provide engaging learning experiences for all ages. It's a charming spot to spend a few hours, observing the rhythms of farm life and appreciating the bounty of the land.
While the farm is relatively compact, its educational value and the joy it brings to children are immense. It's a place that sparks curiosity about where our food comes from and fosters an appreciation for farming. The community often rallies around the farm, with opportunities to donate and support its continued operation, sometimes even in exchange for fresh produce.
Navigating Centennial Farm: Hours, Access, and Tips
+1 It's crucial to check their official website for any seasonal changes or closures, especially during the OC Fair season when access might be affected. Accessing the farm is convenient, with free parking usually available. The recommended entrance is via the gate located across from Vanguard University.
While admission is free, the farm relies on donations to maintain its operations. Visitors are encouraged to contribute what they can, and sometimes donations can even lead to receiving fresh produce. For the best experience, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. Comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking. Bringing snacks and water is also a good idea, as on-site food options are limited.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit