Hidden just a few turns off the highway in Troy, Ohio, is a place where water buffalo lounge in the sun, kangaroos hop through open pastures, and parrots might just try to strike up a conversation. Idle-Hour Ranch isn’t your typical petting zoo—it’s a family-run sanctuary where you can get face-to-face with creatures from all corners of the globe.
Whether you’re planning a family day trip, looking to reconnect with nature, or just craving something unexpected, this quirky and heartfelt animal haven delivers the kind of experiences you don’t soon forget. It’s a place where boots are welcome, laughter is common, and “up close and personal” really means it.
What We Love
Feeding Time Is Showtime
Grab a bucket of feed and get ready to be mobbed—in the best way possible. Camels gently nudge their way in, goats bleat with excitement, and deer wait politely for their turn. It’s hands-on, laugh-out-loud fun for all ages.
Kangaroos That Chill—and Let You Join In
Ever seen a kangaroo sunbathe like it’s on vacation? At Idle-Hour, the kangaroos are as relaxed as Sunday morning coffee. You can observe them hopping about or kicking back—and sometimes, if you’re lucky, they’ll let you come close for a gentle touch.
Wallaby Walkabouts
Yes, you can pet a wallaby. And yes, it’s just as adorable as it sounds. These pint-sized marsupials are soft, surprisingly social, and a total hit with kids and grown-ups alike.
The Aviary Serenade
Step into the walk-in aviary and you’re suddenly surrounded by vibrant, chattering birds. The tropical parrots, cockatoos, and other feathered friends often steal the show with their bold personalities—and occasional mimicry.
A Down-Home Animal Safari
Beyond the petting and feeding pens, Idle-Hour offers mini-safari-style paddocks where you’ll spot llamas, donkeys, emus, and more. With the rustic wooden signage and wide open paths, it’s like wandering through a real-life storybook.
Atmosphere & Setting
Idle-Hour Ranch feels like a big, rural hug. It’s spread across a gently rolling patch of Ohio farmland, where barns and sheds are sprinkled between fenced enclosures and shaded walking paths. The vibe is wonderfully casual—think picnic tables, old-fashioned signage, and the sound of roosters crowing in the distance. You’ll hear country tunes floating from the small speakers, mixed with goat bleats and parrot chatter. It’s warm, welcoming, and refreshingly unpolished.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
General admission is budget-friendly, and the feed buckets (trust us—you’ll want one) are just a few bucks more. You can easily spend 1.5 to 3 hours here, depending on how much time you spend bonding with your new furry and feathered friends. For families, couples, and animal lovers of all stripes, it’s a charming way to spend an afternoon without breaking the bank. And the smiles you’ll leave with? Priceless.
Other Considerations
Parking is free and easy, right next to the entrance. Most of the grounds are flat and walkable, though strollers or wagons help with little ones. Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and maybe even your own snacks—though they do sometimes offer concessions on busier days. Hours vary by season (typically weekends in spring through fall), so double-check their Facebook page before heading out. And wear shoes you don’t mind getting dusty—you’re on a ranch, after all.
Whether you’re feeding a zebra, laughing at a llama’s antics, or marveling at a curious emu, Idle-Hour Ranch delivers more than just a few fun photos—it delivers genuine connection, surprise, and joy. It’s the kind of place where memories stick around long after the hay has settled.
Idle-Hour Ranch
📍 4845 Fenner Rd, Troy, OH 45373