Staff Report / April 18, 2026
A well-known Finger Lakes animal refuge is welcoming visitors back as it opens its 2026 tour season, giving the public a chance to connect with rescued farm animals and learn about their stories.
Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen has announced that guided tours are now underway, with the season officially beginning April 18. The opening coincides with its “Sanctuary Day” programming, marking the return of regular visitor access after the winter months.
The nonprofit organization, which provides care for hundreds of rescued farm animals, offers visitors a firsthand look at life at the sanctuary through structured, guided experiences.
Tours typically run between 60 and 75 minutes and allow guests to meet animals such as cows, pigs, goats, and birds while hearing stories of rescue and rehabilitation.
According to the organization, tours are scheduled on select days in the spring, including Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and some weekdays, with expanded availability during the summer months.
Visitors are required to register in advance, and tours are designed as guided walking experiences across the sanctuary grounds.
In addition to the tours, guests can visit the on-site Sanctuary Shop during open days, offering educational materials and themed merchandise tied to the organization’s mission.
Farm Sanctuary, founded in 1986, is considered one of the nation’s leading organizations focused on farm animal protection, combining rescue efforts with public education and advocacy.
The Watkins Glen location operates seasonally through October, providing opportunities for the public to engage with animals and learn more about animal welfare in an immersive outdoor setting.
