UConn Animal Barns Visitor Tour — Storrs, Connecticut

Discover the UConn Animal Barns Visitor Tour in Connecticut

The UConn Animal Barns Visitor Tour in Storrs, Connecticut offers visitors an educational look at modern animal agriculture, research, and teaching facilities operated by the University of Connecticut. This visitor tour introduces guests to dairy cows, sheep, horses, and other livestock while explaining how animal science, nutrition, and welfare are taught and studied on campus. The experience is popular with families, students, and anyone interested in agriculture and veterinary science.

Why it’s special:
The UConn Animal Barns combine working farms with an active university teaching and research environment. Visitors see real animals cared for by students and professionals while learning how modern agricultural practices support food production, sustainability, and animal welfare.

History & Story of the UConn Animal Barns

Animal agriculture has been a part of UConn’s Storrs campus for more than a century. The university’s animal barns were developed to support teaching, research, and outreach in animal science, veterinary medicine, and agricultural education. Today, the barns continue to serve as hands-on learning spaces for students while welcoming the public through scheduled tours and open-house events.

What You’ll See & Do on the UConn Animal Barns Visitor Tour

• Visit dairy, sheep, horse, and livestock barns

• Learn how animals are cared for, fed, and housed

• See how students participate in animal science education

• Learn about breeding, nutrition, and animal welfare practices

• Observe milking operations and animal handling procedures

• Explore educational displays related to agriculture and research

Hands-On Elements: Educational demonstrations and guided explanations; limited supervised interaction during special programs.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in public barn areas; flash may be restricted around animals.
Souvenirs & Extras: Educational materials; UConn Dairy Bar and campus shops nearby.

Pricing of the UConn Animal Barns Visitor Tour

Visitor tour and barn access
Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Tours are typically offered during scheduled programs or by advance arrangement for groups.

Visiting information

Visits typically last 45–90 minutes depending on the tour format. Tours are designed for all ages, though younger children should be supervised near animals. Many barns are wheelchair accessible, though some areas include uneven surfaces.

Exact Tour Availability:
Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Closed: Saturday & Sunday

Tours are offered by advance arrangement or during scheduled public events.

Nearby

• UConn Dairy Bar

• UConn campus walking trails

• Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry

FAQs About Visiting the UConn Animal Barns Visitor Tour

Are the animal barns open for self-guided visits?
No. Access is typically limited to guided tours, educational programs, or scheduled open-house events.

What types of animals will I see on the tour?
Visitors commonly see dairy cows, sheep, horses, and other livestock used for teaching and research.

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes. The tour is family-friendly, but children must stay with adults and follow safety guidelines around animals.

Do students lead the tours?
Many tours are led by knowledgeable staff or students involved in animal science programs.

Can school groups arrange special tours?
Yes. School and youth groups can request educational tours in advance through UConn outreach programs.