THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Step into a private farm experience in East Dubuque where you’ll milk cows, meet playful goats, and enjoy cold drinks paired with fresh cheese curds as the sun sets.
Step into a private farm experience in East Dubuque where you’ll milk cows, meet playful goats, and enjoy cold drinks paired with fresh cheese curds as the sun sets.
Book with Berning Acres
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Berning Acres · East Dubuque, Illinois
Experience an exceptional evening at Berning Acres in East Dubuque, Illinois, where Matt and Natalie Berning open up their farm for a private nighttime adventure like no other. This VIP farm experience blends relaxation, exploration, and fun as guests sip on cold beverages while touring the working farm. Visitors get hands-on opportunities, including milking a cow under expert guidance and mingling with lively goats that are sure to brighten the evening with their playful antics. As the sun begins to set, guests can savor locally sourced cheese curds, made fresh on the farm, while watching an authentic Midwestern sunset. This journey offers a rare chance to connect with farm life in a casual, friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for families, groups, or anyone seeking a distinctive outdoor evening. The experience is designed for easygoing comfort, requiring no prior farm knowledge, and focuses on creating enjoyable memories amid nature and great company. Whether you're a local or just passing through Illinois, this nighttime farm adventure stands out as a refreshing way to unwind and taste genuine farm flavors.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels with mostly flat walking on farm terrain; minimal physical exertion required.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and children can participate in activities like petting goats and milking cows with supervision.
Yes, cold beverages such as craft beers and soft drinks are provided during the tour.
No prior experience is necessary; the hosts will guide you through all activities step-by-step.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted as local cheese curds and refreshments are provided.
The farm has some uneven terrain and may not be fully accessible for wheelchairs; please contact Berning Acres for specific accommodations.
In case of severe weather, the experience may be rescheduled or moved to a sheltered area for your comfort.
Berning Acres has been a family-owned farm for over 60 years, preserving traditional farming techniques.
The farm practices sustainable agriculture by limiting chemical use and promoting pasture rotation to maintain soil health.
Berning Acres is a family-run dairy farm located in East Dubuque, Illinois. The Berning Family hosts hands-on farm experiences and guided tours that introduce visitors to modern dairy farming and animal care. Offerings include a 90-minute Berning Acres Dairy Farm Tour, daytime family experiences like DAY at the FARM: Picnic & Play and DAY at the FARM: Cows, Kids & Curds, an evening VIP option called NIGHT at the FARM: Cows, Beers and Cheese Curds, and a specialized educational event, FARM VET for a day, scheduled for June 11th. Each experience features practical activities such as milking a cow, feeding calves, interacting with goats and ponies, and enjoying locally-sourced cheese curds and ice cream. The FARM VET for a day program provides veterinary demonstrations, animal handling instruction, and emergency care basics led by expert veterinarians. Tours are led by members of the Berning Family and include opportunities to learn farm history and see modern farming techniques in action. Berning Acres emphasizes safe, supervised interactions suitable for families, children, and visitors seeking authentic rural experiences. Visitors should expect clear guidance during animal encounters and opportunities for photography and hands-on participation. As a visible, local farm in East Dubuque, Berning Acres offers a straightforward agenda for each booking with honest descriptions of activities, durations, and what guests can expect to do and taste. The farm’s public programs focus on education, enjoyment, and direct connection to dairy farming practices without overstating amenities or services. Booking information is available through The Adventure Collective online.
Book with Berning Acres