Now that autumn is officially here, Northeast Ohioans are gearing up for the epic distribution of foliage that will soon blanket the region. One quaint farm near Cleveland offers stunning views of the foliage and a glimpse into old-fashioned farm life that makes for an amazing fall day trip. The best part? Admission is free, so it won't cost you a dime! Gather some friends and get ready for an unforgettable experience, because you won't believe something so fun is just a short drive from home.
Welcome to Stearns Homestead, located at 6975 Ridge Road, Parma.
This charming homestead is the last working educational farm in the area. It is open from noon to 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, May through mid-October.
With 48 acres of stunning scenery, there is much to see and do!
A variety of animals call this lovely farm home. So, too, do a number of historic museum houses, which offer a valuable glimpse at life on an old-fashioned farmstead.
The home on the property has a fascinating history.
Lyman Stearns and his wife, Rhoda Ann, came to Ohio from New Hampshire on their 1834 "wedding tour." The newlyweds were visiting John Cooledge Stearns, Lyman's brother and a noteworthy abolitionist. They fell in love with the area, and their stunning white farmhouse was completed in 1855. The home remains one of the oldest wooden structures in the region. The farm was operated by the Stearns until 1919, when the Gibbs family purchased it. The city of Parma grew around the farm, and in 1980, the City of Parma purchased the property and entrusted maintenance to the Parma Area Historical Society.
Today, the farm is a living history museum that will delight all ages.
See the historic home of West Side Cleveland meat processor Earl C. Gibbs, which traces its history back to 1920, or walk through the circa 1840's Yankee barn and admire antiques of the olden days. You will adore laid-back life on the farm.
As the site is a working farm, it is best to dress in clothes you don't mind getting dirty and sturdy shoes.
Expect to encounter mud! You may find yourself feeding animals or strolling about the pond, so be prepared to be outdoors.
Chances are, you'll make some new friends during your visit.
The farm is home to bunnies, chickens, goats, ducks, potbelly pigs, sheep, horses, turkeys, and cats. While the animals are a hit with everyone, young children in particular adore interacting with them.
Stearns Homestead makes a spectacular destination for group outings.
You can plan a group tour for birthdays, scout outings, or school or daycare field trips. Volunteers are always on-site to offer insight into their daily interactions with the animals.
The on-site country store lets you take some of the fun home with you.
Bring home a memento or delicious delicacy from this adorably quaint store. You'll find crafts and local treasures in addition to local honey and baked goods.
A fun day on the farm will leave you feeling inspired.
Remember, you don't need a farm to grow veggies! A the farm, you will learn about farming techniques. If you are inspired to plant your own small garden plot, on-site experts will be able to offer tips.
If you enjoyed experiencing a little slice of yesteryear, consider lending a helping hand.
There are many ways to lend a hand around the farm. Consider returning to help out as a volunteer tour guide, farmhand, or animals caregiver. Or, make a donation in the form of animal bedding, cat food, straw, or plain cheerios.
Plan your trip today to get in the fall spirit!
With spectacular views of foliage, a superabundance of hay, and festive fall decorations, you'll find yourself in an autumnal wonderland at this charming farmstead. And, it's only a stone's throw from home!
In a region as developed as Greater Cleveland, a quaint farm like Stearns Homestead is an unexpected surprise. It offers an amazing glimpse into the lifestyles of many local predecessors, and Clevelanders of all ages will appreciate the unrivaled glimpse back in time that this little slice of history offers.
For another spectacular farm, check out this lavender farm that is amazingly close to home. Also, don't miss these other 27 best things to do in Cleveland.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!