Avila Valley Barn Archives

Avila valley barn Fun at the pumpkin patch

Posted in Adventures, Avila Beach, Places to Play

SLO County Pumpkin Patches: Getting Lost in the Hay Maze & More Fun at Avila Valley Barn in SLO

I feel like Avila Valley Barn is the go-to staple for pumpkin patchin’ it in SLO County. It also has one heck of a pie stand. Overall, it has hay rides, farm animals to feed, two mazes, roasted corn, photo ops and ice cream all on a family-friendly farm.

Posted in Adventures, Attractions, Avila Beach, Places to Play

Baby Goats at Avila Valley Barn, San Luis Obispo

Avila Valley Barn is a magical place where children are entertained by adorable farm animals and tractor rides – and there’s even homemade pie for you. But I’ll do a whole Avila Barn post later. For right now, you’ve got to get your butts over there to see the baby goats. Like, itsy bitsy teeny tiny newborn ones. And they’re reeeally adorable.

About Me

Hey! I’m Tonya Strickland, a longtime journalist, former travel ambassador and local mom-of-two.

But more, I’m that friend you talk kid stuff with!!

On this blog, you’ll find pictures, tips, and stories about places to take kids in and around Gig Harbor, Washington. We also venture out to Tacoma, Fox Island, Point Ruston and more (plus some vacation-worthy bonus content from when we lived in California).

I love scouting out “secret” and lesser-known destinations, as well as hitting up the must-see spots that should be on every family's bucket lists.

I was a newspaper reporter for years and years, but now I'm stepping out from above the fold and doing my own thing as a writer. Readers know me for my storytelling, random fun facts, and love of history!

Writing makes me happy, and I’ve been involved in newspapers one way or another since high school.

I currently live in Gig Harbor with my husband Bowen; and our two young kids, Clara and Wyatt. Bowen isn’t on the blog all that often because we adventure on the days he’s working, but his dry humor is a fan favorite over on our Instagram stories lol.

Anywhoo, I hope our posts help you discover some cool hidden gems for your fam! Because, as I like to say around here, sometimes you just need to get out of the house!