About Westmeister Farm
Private, hands-on animal encounters designed with care, education, and respect at the heart of everything we do.
Our Story
Westmeister Farm began as a passion project rooted in education, animal care, and respect. What started in our own backyard has grown into a private, appointment-only farm where guests can experience meaningful, hands-on encounters without crowds or distractions. We focus on creating fun, guided experiences that prioritize the well-being of our animals while giving guests the opportunity to learn, connect, and create lasting memories. Every visit is intentionally designed to be personal, educational, and centered on trust.
Our Mission
At Westmeister Farm, our mission is to create meaningful, educational, and unforgettable animal experiences while always prioritizing the health, safety, and well-being of the animals in our care. Through guided private tours and hands-on encounters, we strive to foster respect, appreciation, and understanding for animals in a safe and controlled environment. Every interaction is closely supervised by experienced animal handlers, and no guest is ever permitted contact with an animal without trained staff present. We are deeply committed to positive, choice-based interactions, meaning no animal is ever forced to participate in an encounter or activity. By placing animal care, comfort, and enrichment at the center of everything we do, we aim to create experiences that are not only exciting for our guests, but also respectful and enriching for the animals themselves.
Conservation Efforts
Westmeister Farm believes conservation begins with education, connection, and inspiring people to care about animals and the natural world. Through up-close, educational experiences, we help guests develop a deeper appreciation and respect for wildlife, domestic species, and the importance of responsible animal care. We strive to use our platform to teach conservation-minded values, encourage compassion for animals, and inspire future generations to protect and respect the world around them.
Why Choose Westmeister Farm
We do things differently, and intentionally, to create the best experience for both our animals and our guests.
Private, appointment-only visits with no crowds
Hands-on, guided encounters led by knowledgeable staff
A calm, respectful environment designed around animal comfort
USDA licensed and state permitted facility
Licensed, Permitted, and Trusted
Westmeister Farm is a USDA licensed encounter facility and operates under Ohio wildlife permits, meeting strict requirements for animal care, housing, and guest safety. These certifications aren’t just labels; they reflect our commitment to responsible ownership, ethical education, and transparency. We believe trust is earned through how we care for our animals and how we welcome guests onto our farm.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know planning a visit comes with questions. Use the navigator below to quickly find the information you’re looking for.
Navigator
Booking & Scheduling
Is your website broken? I scrolled forever and couldn’t find anything to book.
Our website is not broken! Our scheduling calendar automatically opens to a month with an available appointment. If you don’t immediately see a slot, that means we are currently fully booked. Please keep checking the calendar for openings.
When do you open more appointment slots?
We are a small business with full-time jobs outside of the farm, so we open appointment slots in small batches as time allows. We do not have a set release schedule. The only place we give advance notice of openings is on our Patreon.
Do you have any openings today?
If we receive a cancellation within 72 hours, we post the opening on Facebook and remove the post once the slot is filled.
Pricing & Group Sizes
How many people can I bring?
Your booking is private to your group, and you may bring as many people as you’d like. Please arrive on time so your tour can start as scheduled. If your group is larger than 12 people, please give us a heads-up so we can prepare accordingly.
Do you offer group discounts?
We do not offer group discounts. Private Farm Tours are $65 per person, and Swimming with Otters is $150 per person.
Is my baby the same admission price?
Yes. All visitors, including babies and children, are the same admission price.
Is it still $150 per person for Swimming with Otters if I don’t get in the water?
Yes. Even guests who do not enter the water will still get to interact with the otters.
Weather & Policies
What is your policy on bad weather?
If the farm is open, tours will not be canceled, refunded, or rescheduled due to weather. Our roads are well maintained, and we only close for extreme conditions. If the farm must close, we will contact guests scheduled for that day to reschedule their visit.
Accessibility
Is your facility handicap accessible?
While we cannot officially label our facility as handicap accessible, we work hard to accommodate guests with mobility challenges. The outdoor areas are gravel, and some doorways have steps. Our tour guides are attentive to pacing and will do their best to ensure everyone can interact with the animals safely and comfortably.
If you have specific concerns, please email lynnwestmeister@gmail.com before booking.
Events & Celebrations
Do you do field trips?
Due to high demand and booking 6 months to a year in advance, coordinating field trips can be difficult. There are no group discounts, but if you are bringing more than 12 guests, please let us know ahead of time.
We’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or engagement. Do you do anything special?
You’re welcome to book a tour as part of a birthday celebration, but we do not have a party space for cake or gatherings afterward. We recommend nearby public spaces like Seltzer Park in Shelby.
Do you do birthday parties?
You’re welcome to book a tour as part of a birthday celebration, but we do not have a party space for cake or gatherings afterward. We recommend nearby public spaces like Seltzer Park in Shelby.
Animals & Experiences
Can my child swim with otters if I am in the pool with them?
Children must be 10 years or older to enter the pool. Children under 10 may still attend the experience but cannot swim and are still $150 per person.
Are your animals rescued?
Our animals come from many different backgrounds, and it depends on the individual animal. We respect their privacy and share their stories during tours when appropriate.
Are you a zoo?
We do not consider ourselves to be a zoo.
Travel & Local Info
Where are you located?
We are located in Shelby, Ohio, about an hour and a half from both Columbus and Cleveland.
What hotels are nearby?
We recommend staying in Ontario, Ohio, which is about 10–15 minutes away and offers many shopping and dining options.
What local restaurants do you recommend?
The Vault (Shelby) – sit-down dining
The Buckeye Express (Bellville) – casual, inside a historic train
Marigold Bakery (Shelby) – pastries and baked goods
Paul’s Drive-In (Shelby) – meals and ice cream
Plan Your Visit
Westmeister Farm is open by appointment only, and all encounters must be booked in advance. If you have questions about your visit, accessibility, or booking an experience, we’re here to help.
Support Westmeister Farm
There are several ways to support the animals and educational experiences at Westmeister Farm. Every purchase, donation, or subscription helps us continue providing high-quality care and meaningful encounters.