Thanksgiving Point has once again created a one-of-a-kind experience for families in Utah with the grand opening of Curiosity Farms, a revolutionary play and learning center dedicated to the future of farming. This exciting new venue opened on September 26, 2024, with a day filled with interactive activities, hands-on learning, and thrilling hot air balloon rides—making it a must-visit destination for Utah families looking for a fun, educational day out.
A Memorable Grand Opening in Lehi, Utah
Curiosity Farms kicked off its grand opening with a breathtaking experience—hot air balloon rides that lifted families 50 feet into the air, giving them a bird’s-eye view of the farm’s futuristic exhibits. The event also included a public ribbon-cutting ceremony, featuring speeches from Thanksgiving Point CEO McKay Christensen, founder Alan Ashton, and other community leaders, including Lehi City Mayor Mark Johnson.
In his opening remarks, McKay Christensen emphasized that Curiosity Farms is designed to help children become “curious, confident, and compassionate” by exploring STEM learning through the lens of farming and food production. The ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated Curiosity Farms as not only a fun destination but also an educational experience for Utah families to enjoy together.
Hands-On Experiences for Families
Curiosity Farms isn’t your typical farm—it’s an innovative, tech-driven space that helps children and adults alike understand the science and technology behind modern agriculture. Families had the chance to explore cutting-edge farming techniques such as pollinator drones, GPS-operated tractors, and hydroponic gardening. These interactive exhibits spark curiosity about the future of farming and offer guests a glimpse into the technology driving sustainable food production.
Visitors were especially captivated by the Grow Tech Gardens, where hydroponic systems produce fresh vegetables and greens for Thanksgiving Point’s Harvest Restaurant, while also generating fodder for the animals on the farm. This innovative farming method shows how future farming will play a crucial role in feeding families both in Utah and around the world.
Fun and Learning Combined
One of the things that sets Curiosity Farms apart is how it integrates play with learning. The Play Patch Playground and the Alfalfa Climber give children the chance to build their confidence while having fun in an outdoor environment designed to stimulate their curiosity. Families also loved the classic farm experiences like cow milking and pony rides, which gave children an up-close look at animal care.
For those looking for more in-depth learning, daily programs like Animals Up Close and Plant Lab were a hit, offering interactive lessons in animal care and urban gardening. These hands-on activities are designed to foster STEM education in young learners, helping them grow into confident, curious individuals.
A Family-Friendly Destination in Utah
Located in Lehi, Utah, Curiosity Farms is more than just a fun outing for kids—it’s a place where families can learn together about the importance of agriculture, sustainability, and the role that technology will play in the future of farming. Whether you’re a Utah local or visiting from out of town, Curiosity Farms offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave your family inspired and excited to learn more about where our food comes from.
As McKay Christensen said, “Curiosity Farms brings STEM learning, particularly tech, to the forefront of young minds using a topic everyone is familiar with: our food. Kids will get curious managing livestock with GPS, build their confidence overcoming challenges at the Play Patch Playground, and learn more about the food system, which grows compassion for life and awareness of global issues.”
Alan Ashton, founder of Thanksgiving Point, also shared his excitement, saying, “Curiosity Farms is more than just a farm. It is a seed of inspiration planted with the hope of growing young minds. Karen and I are thrilled to share this special place with our community’s children, where they can explore, learn, and discover the wonders of the natural world.”
Why Utah Families Should Visit Curiosity Farms
Curiosity Farms is set to become a top destination for Utah families. Its combination of fun, interactive exhibits, and important STEM education offers something for everyone. Whether your kids are excited about learning how GPS tractors work, exploring urban gardening techniques, or simply having a fun day out riding ponies and climbing at the Play Patch, Curiosity Farms is an unforgettable experience.
Parents will also appreciate the venue’s focus on teaching children about the sustainability of modern farming, as well as the technological advancements that are helping to shape the future of food production. From hydroponics to pollinator drones, the lessons learned at Curiosity Farms go beyond the farm and help children develop compassion and awareness for global food systems.
Plan Your Visit to Curiosity Farms
Curiosity Farms at Thanksgiving Point is now open and ready to welcome Utah families for a day of fun, learning, and exploration. Be sure to check out the daily programs and shows like Animals Up Close and Plant Lab, and don’t miss the hands-on play areas like the Play Patch Playground and cow milking experiences.
Curiosity Farms is more than just a fun day out—it’s an opportunity for children and parents to learn together about the vital role of agriculture and how we can create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Plan your visit today and experience the future of farming at Curiosity Farms! For more information, visit our socials and website and discover how your family can get curious, confident, and compassionate about farming and food production.