When Santa's reindeer aren't busy shuttling him across the globe, they retire to the Vermont Reindeer Farm in Orleans for some much needed R & R.
The farm has been owned by the Broe family for five generations, and is the only reindeer farm in the state of Vermont.
Originally dairy farmers, the Broes began keeping reindeer as a hobby. The endeavor became quite popular, but members of the family still maintain the dairy business as well.
Since the family lives on the property, tours of the reindeer farm are only offered on Saturdays & Sundays by appointment at 10 am and 1 pm.
Adults are $10 each and children ages 3 – 10 are $6.00. Admission includes Reindeer School, meeting with the reindeer, and free hot cocoa and snacks in the lodge afterwards.
Each tour begins in the Reindeer Lodge with a 30 minute presentation referred to as "Reindeer School." During this time, your tour guide will tell you everything there is to know about these wonderful animals.
They will also present you with antlers, reindeer fur, a real reindeer hide, and velvet saved from shedding. All of these items can be touched and handled to give you an idea what a real live reindeer feels like.
Next, you'll head out to the reindeer enclosure for an up close and personal encounter with the animals!
In addition to reindeer, the farm is also home to mini goats, mini donkeys, ponies, chickens, ducks, and a pot bellied pig named Roscoe!
Guided Snowshoeing through the Vermont forest is also available for an additional charge.