If you want to explore the countryside, dine in a remote restaurant, or pet some barnyard animals, these farms in Connecticut are the best place to do it. Whether you're planning a romantic retreat or a family-friendly day trip, there's something for everyone on this list. It's time to leave the busy life behind and check out the farms.

Please note, Lavender Pond Farm is temporarily closed.

1. Golden Lamb Buttery

Please note, Golden Lamb Buttery is no longer in business.

499 Wolf Den Road, Brooklyn, CT 06234

This barn serves up fresh farm-to-table food in an intimate dining room. You can explore the grounds and hang out on the front porch, which offers water views, or head straight inside to enjoy the charming, rustic interior. The plates served here have won awards!

2. Holbrook Farm

45 Turkey Plain Road, Bethel, CT 06801

Come enjoy the rolling hills of this family-owned farm and take advantage of the farm-fresh goods. Fruits and vegetables are readily available, plus an onsite bakery offers up plenty of freshly made sweets. The quaint storefront is full of great finds that won't break the bank.

3. Lavender Pond Farm

318 Roast Meat Hill Road, Killingworth, CT 06419

Love all things lavender? Well, so do these guys! More than 10,000 lavender plants are grown here and the onsite shop features lavender products like soap, candles, and more. The scent alone will make you want to stay forever.

4. Weir Farm

735 Nod Hill Road, Wilton, CT 06897

Now, this is no ordinary farm. Weir is all about celebrating art and encourages artists to use the grounds as a place of inspiration. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, it has colonial remnants and a number of great trails. If that's not enough, you'll be thrilled to learn that multiple famous impressionist artists once lived here.

5. Creamery Brook Bison

19 Purvis Road, Brooklyn, CT 06234

What a sight! Get a closer look at a herd of bison, sample the meat, and even buy some to take home. The farm offers wagon tours for folks who want to get even closer, which is a huge hit with kids. This one is something the whole family will go crazy for.

6. Avery Hill Farm

20 Avery Hill Rd, Ledyard, CT 06339

For a relaxing shopping experience, try hunting for antiques at Avery Hill. Built in 1830, you'll find seasonal goods as well as vintage pieces. They open for the season on May 6th, so mark your calendars!

7. Roseledge Country Inn

418 CT-164, Preston, CT 06365

In the heart of Mystic Country, this farm offers a nature oasis just a short drive from the casinos. They are proud of their "Made in the USA" products and offer exceptional service. You'll love the bright, simple guest rooms and never-ending landscapes.

8. Winfield Morgan Farm

57 E Litchfield Road, Litchfield, CT 06759

Tucked in to the gorgeous Litchfield Hills is this 100-acre farm, home to Lee's Riding Stable. In addition to enjoying the natural surroundings, you can schedule a trail ride. Immerse yourself in the hills while riding a horse and prepare to fall in love.

9. Buttonwood Farm

473 Shetucket Turnpike, Griswold, CT 06351

When it comes to Connecticut farms, this is definitely one of the most famous. People flock here in the summer for a view of the sunflower fields and a taste of the homemade ice cream. You can say hello to the pigs and cows as you enjoy a tasty treat at the picnic tables.

10. Coogan Farm

162 Greenmanville Avenue, Mystic, CT 06355

This farm has been a staple of the Mystic science community since 1946. It's a wildlife sanctuary, natural history museum, and environmental education center all rolled in to one! If you want to explore nature and the way it works, this is definitely the place to do it.

11. Ekonk Hill Turkey Farm

227 Ekonk Hill Road, Sterling, CT 06354

Gobble gobble! This family-owned farm includes a bakery, and even makes fresh turkey pies. Sometimes they dye the turkeys, which makes for a pretty colorful (and funny) sight. There are 2,000 turkeys being raised here, along with vegetables and produce. The sights will blow you away.

12. Winvian Farm

155 Alain White Road, Morris, CT 06763

This farm is also a hotel, and it's one of the most unique around. Each room features a different theme or exists in an odd place. Stay in a helicopter, treehouse, or something less daring. The expansive property is guaranteed to delight and relax you no matter what.

These places look great! But some farms can be a little misleading. What appears to be an old red barn might actually be a hidden soda factory. Don't believe me? Check out Avery's Beverages and discover the truth for yourself!