Thunder Acres Highlands in Sand Lake

What if I told you that there is a place in West Michigan where you can lounge in a field, enjoying a gourmet picnic, while miniature Highland cows with impossibly cute bangs graze nearby. Thunder Acres can make that happen. In fact, they’ve come up with a whole menu of special experiences where they’ve perfected the art of cow-human connection.

(Thunder Acres Highlands is a charming farm in Sand Lake, Michigan where they raise adorably tiny Highland and Highpark cattle of all sizes – micro, mini, and mid-size. They have a souvenir store and host cool events where you can hang out with these miniature Highland cows and have a unique experience.)

Experiences

“Picnic in the Pasture Orb” or “Picnic in the Lavender Field”
For 1.5 hours, you can have your own private picnic (with optional add-ons like wine or flowers) while hanging out with the cutest Highland cows. After you’re done, you’ll get to feed the cows treats, snap a bunch of pics, and just vibe in the gardens. It’s the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the moment. For two people, it starts at $200, and it’s $350 for a group of 3-4.

“Hug-a-Highland Cow Experience”
If you’re the type who wants to snuggle, the Hug-a-Highland Cow experience is your jam. This one’s all about bonding with these fluffy mini cows. You’ll get a golf cart tour to meet all the cows in the pasture, then spend time brushing and feeding them treats. Plus, you get to walk through flower gardens (June to October), take tons of photos, and just have a blast. It’s $150 for two people, with group rates for bigger groups.

Photo Shoot Packages
Just want to go for the pics? These options are for you:

– Moment in Time: Take pics with vintage stuff like a 1920s Doctor Buggy or a 1930s Stage Coach, and adding a mini Highland cow or donkey into the mix. It’s $150/hour, and you can bring your own photographer or just snap your own shots.
– Pasture Photos Only: If you just want to capture the cows with a natural, farm backdrop, book this. It’s $150/hour and includes a cow for close-up shots.

Highland Cow Festivals
Warmer weather promises themed Highland Cow festivals throughout the year, from lavender blooms to harvest celebrations.

June: Kids Festival with the Highlands
July: Lavender Festival with the Highlands
August: Flower Festival with the Highlands
October: Harvest Festival with the Highlands
December: Mingle with the Highlands and Santa

And, if you’re feeling creative, watch their Facebook page for more events like “Painting with the Cows” sessions and Thursday evening crafting workshops—because everything, even art, is better with Highland cows!