Lands at Hillside Farms
A historic educational dairy farm offering fresh ice cream, animal encounters, and a charming marketplace. A true community gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, more vendors
Lands at Hillside Farms
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, more vendors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic educational dairy farm offering fresh ice cream, animal encounters, and a charming marketplace. A true community gem.
"What a gem of a place! We stopped by for ice cream and ended up spent awhile just soaking in the charm."
🍦 Taste the Best Ice Cream
Don't miss the ice cream! It's praised for being incredibly fresh and delicious, tasting homemade.
🐾 Visit the Friendly Animals
The animals are sweet and well-cared for. Kids especially love interacting with them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Farm Fresh Ice Cream
Ice Cream Shop
Indulge in incredibly fresh, creamy ice cream, often described as tasting homemade. A must-try for any visitor!
Animal Encounters
Barns and Pastures
Meet and interact with a variety of sweet, well-kept farm animals. A delight for kids and adults alike.
Local Marketplace
Farm Store
Discover unique local merchandise, from antiques and home decor to fresh baked goods and microgreens.
Peaceful Grounds
Picnic Areas and Creek
Relax by the man-made stream, enjoy shaded seating, and soak in the tranquil, charming atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to The Lands at Hillside Farms
Embrace the Farm Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍦 Taste the Best Ice Cream
Don't miss the ice cream! It's praised for being incredibly fresh and delicious, tasting homemade.
🐾 Visit the Friendly Animals
The animals are sweet and well-cared for. Kids especially love interacting with them.
🛍️ Explore Local Finds
The farm store offers unique items, from antiques to local produce and baked goods.
💧 Enjoy the Peaceful Setting
Take time to relax by the stream and enjoy the charming, tranquil atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍦 Taste the Best Ice Cream
Don't miss the ice cream! It's praised for being incredibly fresh and delicious, tasting homemade.
🐾 Visit the Friendly Animals
The animals are sweet and well-cared for. Kids especially love interacting with them.
🛍️ Explore Local Finds
The farm store offers unique items, from antiques to local produce and baked goods.
💧 Enjoy the Peaceful Setting
Take time to relax by the stream and enjoy the charming, tranquil atmosphere.
🎃 Donate Pumpkins
In November, donate your old pumpkins to the farm for the animals.
🤝 Support Community Initiatives
The farm hosts events like 'Take What You Need; Pay What You Can' food markets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Lands at Hillside Farms, calling it a 'gem' with outstanding farm-fresh ice cream and a charming atmosphere. The well-kept animals and unique marketplace offerings are highlights, making it a delightful experience for families and individuals alike. While lines can form, the quality and welcoming service make the wait worthwhile.
"What a gem of a place! We stopped by for ice cream and ended up spent awhile just soaking in the charm. I got the cookie dough and wow—it seriously tasted like they made the vanilla and cookie dough from scratch just for me. So fresh, so creamy, absolutely delicious.
The kids had a blast visiting the animals and exploring the grounds. We really appreciated the thoughtful benches to sit and enjoy our treats, covered areas for shade (or rain!), and a beautiful man-made stream that made the whole place feel peaceful and fun at the same time.
The little shops were full of unique finds. I especially loved a gorgeous birdbath I spotted. Friendly, welcoming service tied everything together. Yes, we had to wait in line, but it was well worth it. We’ll definitely be back!"
Kelly Kringe
"The store was absolutely adorable. The chocolate milk is outstanding. I got a cow vase that I’m in love with for $30. Super cute stuff throughout. Candy, toys, baby stuff, clothes, decorations, etc. We accidentally broke something while in the store and the worker was SUPER polite about it, even though we offered to pay for the broken item, they declined.
the animals were all super sweet and well kept. Definitely worth stopping by to check out!"
Amber Luyster
"The Lands at Hillside Farms is a place that everyone should visit. Located in Shavertown, PA., and just off of the expressway sits this home away from home. They have a variety of foods, fresh ice cream, and milk. There are antiques and small trails too. You can also sit under the beautiful covered pavilion and enjoy your ice cream and snacks. They also have Dubai Chocolate in the refrigerated cooler supplied by 3SnowFlakesBaking on @threads. If it wasn't for seeing her post I would have missed this great place. I also want to say the young girl at the dairy register was so kind and helpful. She was knowledgeable, and kind and even personally greeted the young children who were there for a visit. We will be back with a cooler of ice for more things we want to get."
B Forte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lands at Hillside Farms is conveniently located in Shavertown, PA, just off the expressway. Many visitors find it easily accessible by car.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive earlier on busy days to secure a spot.
Operating hours can vary, especially seasonally and for special events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
The grounds are generally accessible, with paved paths in some areas. However, some natural areas might be uneven. It's advisable to contact the farm directly for specific accessibility details.
While The Lands at Hillside Farms offers a full experience, the surrounding Back Mountain area has local shops and parks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to The Lands at Hillside Farms is free, allowing visitors to explore the grounds and see the animals. Specific events may have separate admission fees.
Prices for ice cream, milk, and other food items are typical for farm-fresh products. Visitors have praised the value for the quality.
Keep an eye on their social media for announcements about special events or promotions. They also participate in initiatives like the PA Ice Cream Trail.
Yes, the farm store offers a variety of merchandise, and gift cards may be available.
While the farm offers its own delicious treats, it's generally understood that visitors can bring their own snacks, especially for younger children. However, it's always best to confirm their specific policy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Children can enjoy visiting the animals, playing in the creek area, and exploring the farm grounds. They also host events like Children's Grief Camp.
Visitors can see and interact with the animals in their enclosures. They are described as sweet and well-kept.
Yes, there are thoughtful benches and covered pavilion areas perfect for enjoying your ice cream and snacks.
The farm features a charming marketplace with unique local merchandise, including antiques, home decor, candy, toys, and baby items.
Yes, the farm hosts various events throughout the year, including the PA Ice Cream Trail Kickoff, community food markets, and educational programs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main draw is their outstanding farm-fresh ice cream and chocolate milk. They also offer other dairy products and sometimes feature local baked goods and microgreens. +1
The ice cream is renowned for its freshness and quality, suggesting it's made with their own dairy products, giving it a distinct homemade taste.
While the focus is on dairy products, they may offer some baked goods or other items that could cater to different dietary needs. It's best to inquire on-site.
Yes, you can purchase fresh milk and other dairy products directly from the farm.
This is a community initiative where local farms offer produce, and visitors can take what they need and pay what they can afford, promoting food access.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture charming shots with the animals, the picturesque farm buildings, the tranquil creek area, and of course, the delicious ice cream. The marketplace also offers unique photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and farm operations.
As with most private properties, drone usage may be restricted. It's advisable to check with the farm management before flying a drone.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting, but the farm is charming throughout the day. Weekday afternoons might offer fewer people for unobstructed shots.
Yes, you can take photos of the animals, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
While the ice cream and marketplace items have costs, they are generally considered good value for the quality. Look out for community events like the 'Pay What You Can' markets for budget-friendly access to local produce. ❤️ Couples & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Educational Mission of The Lands at Hillside Farms
This hands-on approach aims to foster a deeper understanding of where food comes from and the importance of responsible stewardship of the land. Volunteers play a crucial role in this mission, contributing their skills to help the farm continue its educational work. The farm's commitment extends beyond traditional education. They also host programs like Children's Grief Camp, providing a healing environment for children who have experienced trauma through interaction with animals and nature.
This highlights their dedication to community well-being and using the farm's resources for therapeutic purposes. The farm strives to create a space where healthy, logical, and sustainable life choices are taught and practiced. By supporting The Lands at Hillside Farms, visitors contribute to this ongoing educational and community-focused mission. Whether through purchasing products, attending events, or volunteering, every interaction helps sustain this valuable resource.
+1A Taste of Hillside Farms: Ice Cream and Local Delights
Beyond the dairy treats, the farm's marketplace is a treasure trove of local goods. You can find a diverse array of items, including antiques, home decor, toys, baby items, and fresh produce from local vendors like Back Mountain Microgreens.
The farm also participates in community food initiatives, such as 'Take What You Need; Pay What You Can' markets, showcasing their commitment to food accessibility and community support.
This blend of delicious farm-fresh products and a vibrant local marketplace makes The Lands at Hillside Farms a destination for both culinary enjoyment and community engagement.Volunteering and Community at Hillside Farms
Volunteers often describe their experience as rewarding, with opportunities to be involved in various aspects of farm life, from animal care to educational programs.
The farm also serves as a hub for community events, such as sponsoring the Back Mountain Chamber's Annual Awards Ceremony and hosting community food markets. These events not only support the farm's operations but also strengthen local ties and provide valuable services to the wider community. Suzanne Kapral's journey, returning to Hillside Farms decades later to create a supportive space, exemplifies the farm's impact.
This dedication from individuals and the broader community underscores the farm's role as more than just an agricultural site, but a vital center for learning, healing, and connection. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit