When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
HausBar Urban Farm
Why HausBar Urban Farm is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
HausBar Urban Farm, founded by Dorsey Barger and Susan Hausmann, is a standout urban farm located on nearly two acres in East Austin. Originally a neglected lot with rundown buildings, the couple transformed it into a thriving sustainable farm and home. The farm features a diverse range of animals including heritage meat chickens, laying hens, donkeys, goats, rabbits, and geese. The farm practices responsible, sustainable agriculture, with the animals raised organically and allowed to forage freely, ensuring they live healthy, humane lives. Beyond farming, the property is thoughtfully designed with an extensive outdoor kitchen and a large wraparound porch that invites visitors to enjoy the garden views and community atmosphere. HausBar also hosts culinary classes and gardening workshops, making it a vibrant hub for community engagement. Its combination of sustainable farming, animal husbandry, education, and a welcoming environment makes it an excellent place for friends to gather, learn, and connect.
Here's what people think of HausBar Urban Farm
As of recent, HausBar Urban Farm holds a 4.5-star rating based on 31 reviews.
Reviews of HausBar Urban Farm reflect a largely positive appreciation for its commitment to sustainability, animal welfare, and community involvement. Positive feedback highlights the farm's transformation from a blighted property to a productive urban farm, the quality and ethical treatment of their heritage poultry, and engaging classes that teach sustainability and cooking skills. Many reviewers praise the farm’s peaceful and friendly atmosphere, as well as the owners’ dedication to environmentally responsible practices. On the other hand, some critiques have noted challenges related to local zoning regulations and operational constraints, which have occasionally created tension concerning farm operations within a residential zone. Additionally, a few users have mentioned concerns about neighborhood impact and disagreements with city code interpretations. Despite these points, the overall sentiment remains favorable, emphasizing HausBar’s role as a model for urban farming and a beloved community space that balances agricultural production with education and community building.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
K Tsang
One of the best parts of our East Austin neighborhood, where you can visit with the miniature donkeys when they come up to the fence to say hi and see the ducks and chickens and their beautiful rows of produce in a neighborhood environment. I’ve met the owners years ago and enjoyed a beautiful home cooked meal outside on the porch where they had tanks of aquaponic fish. Gustav the goose is very proud of his flock of chickens and ducks, and does give a hospitable tour. The owners have done a great job keeping up with the heavy intensive labour of farming and keeping all the animals happy on this urban farm. The donkeys and animals have been such a welcome pause and presence to so many fans in the neighborhood.
Richard Even
Rabbits appeared to be kept in poor conditions, over crowded and many were sick.
Riana Zapata
Wonderful local farm right in the heart of Austin!
Delwin Goss
Haus Bar Farm is one of the coolest places in Austin. They welcome visitors. Gustav the Goose will greet you with a very gentle nibble. The donkeys follow you around like lap dogs. Chickens, chickens and more chickens. Green gardens and fresh produce everywhere. We would all be blessed to have an urban farm as a neighbor! Beats the Hell out of the drugs and thugs in my own neighborhood of Montopolis.
Mi-Mi Lowe
So fun and amazing!
How to reach HausBar Urban Farm
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Website: None
Why HausBar Urban Farm may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at HausBar Urban Farm with your friends?
Gathering your friends at HausBar Urban Farm in East Austin offers a truly special experience that blends nature, education, and fun in an urban setting. This sustainable urban farm is much more than just a farm; it is a vibrant community space designed to connect people with where their food comes from and foster a deep appreciation for sustainable agriculture. Meeting here with friends means stepping away from the usual crowded venues and enjoying a peaceful, green environment filled with fresh air, gardens, and farm animals. The farm’s intimate and welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to relax, bond, and create lasting memories while engaging in meaningful activities together. Whether your group is interested in learning about organic farming, participating in hands-on workshops, or simply enjoying farm-to-table snacks in a charming outdoor setting, HausBar Urban Farm offers a unique venue that nurtures both camaraderie and curiosity. With its high rating of 4.5 from over 30 reviews, it’s clear that visitors consistently find it a rewarding and enjoyable place to gather, making it an ideal destination for your next meetup with friends or family.
What activities does HausBar Urban Farm offer for group meetups?
HausBar Urban Farm provides a variety of activities designed to engage groups in an authentic farm experience right in the heart of Austin. Visitors can explore the garden plots where seasonal vegetables and herbs are grown using sustainable practices, learning firsthand how urban farming contributes to local food systems. Groups often enjoy farm tours where knowledgeable staff introduce them to the diverse crops as well as the friendly farm animals, such as chickens and bees, providing educational insights about animal husbandry and pollination. The farm hosts workshops and day camps, especially popular with younger friends or family groups, where participants can get involved with planting, harvesting, and simple farm chores, making it a hands-on, immersive experience. Seasonal events, tastings, and farm-to-table dinners allow groups to savor fresh produce prepared by local chefs, turning a visit into a delightful culinary adventure. Additionally, the on-site GuestHaus offers cozy accommodations, which can enhance group gatherings by providing a farm stay experience that extends beyond a typical day visit.
Why is HausBar Urban Farm perfect for group gatherings?
HausBar Urban Farm’s location and amenities make it an ideal spot for groups seeking a meaningful outing that combines education, relaxation, and social interaction. Its setting within an urban neighborhood yet surrounded by lush gardens offers a tranquil escape that is easy to access but far removed from the typical city hustle. The farm’s layout encourages walking, exploring, and gathering in open spaces, which is perfect for groups to spread out comfortably without feeling cramped. Many visitors appreciate how the farm fosters a community spirit, creating opportunities for shared learning through interactive experiences that spark conversation and teamwork. Whether planning a casual hangout, a family-friendly outing, or a themed event like a birthday or small celebration, the farm’s staff are welcoming and often provide customized experiences to suit a group’s needs. Furthermore, the emphasis on sustainability and local food production gives group meetups a unique purpose that enriches social connections with the rewarding knowledge that attendees are supporting an environmentally and socially conscious enterprise.
How can HausBar Urban Farm support educational meetups and workshops?
One of the standout features of HausBar Urban Farm is its commitment to education, making it a go-to spot for groups interested in workshops related to farming, gardening, and sustainability. The farm regularly offers hands-on learning opportunities where groups can engage deeply with topics such as composting, seed starting, and organic pest management, which are not only informative but also encourage environmental stewardship. These educational sessions are led by experienced farmers and educators passionate about sharing practical knowledge that attendees can take home to implement in their own gardens or lifestyles. For schools, clubs, or community groups, the farm provides an accessible and stimulating environment where learning is active and experiential rather than passive. The personalized attention and small-group formats enhance interaction and ensure that everyone in a meetup can participate fully. This makes HausBar Urban Farm not just a venue for socializing but also a center for expanding understanding about sustainable living—an educational bonus that adds value to any group gathering.
What makes the farm’s culinary offerings and events special for groups?
HausBar Urban Farm takes pride in its connection to local food culture, which significantly enriches the social aspect of group meetups. The farm often collaborates with local chefs, brewers, and mixologists to host farm-to-table tastings and events that showcase ingredients harvested directly from its gardens. These gatherings provide a unique opportunity for friends to share a meal or drink sourced from the surrounding environment, deepening the connection between farm and table. Seasonal events, such as the popular East Austin Urban Farm Tour that occasionally includes HausBar as a stop, highlight live music and curated food and beverage samplings, turning a simple meetup into a festive, sensory experience. For groups, such culinary experiences can serve as both entertainment and education, giving insight into the importance of eating seasonally and supporting local producers. These social dining opportunities are perfect for celebrations or casual get-togethers where the food and drink become a centerpiece for conversation, enjoyment, and connection.
How accessible is HausBar Urban Farm for group events and what facilities support gatherings?
HausBar Urban Farm’s location in East Austin is easily reachable from many parts of the city, making it a convenient destination for friends, families, or community groups looking for a unique outing. The farm’s open layout is conducive to hosting groups of various sizes while maintaining a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Facilities such as sheltered picnic areas and outdoor seating accommodate gatherings regardless of weather variations, allowing groups to eat, rest, and socialize comfortably. The availability of the GuestHaus rental adds further flexibility, as groups can opt for extended stays or combined event celebrations in a farm setting. The farm’s staff are accustomed to coordinating with groups for tours, workshops, and private events, helping to tailor the experience to the group’s interests and needs. This combination of location, facilities, and attentive service ensures that group meetups run smoothly and leave a lasting positive impression.
What community and environmental values does HausBar Urban Farm embody for visitors?
Visitors who rally at HausBar Urban Farm don’t just enjoy a fun day out—they participate in a broader movement toward sustainability and community resilience. The farm operates with clear values centered on ecological stewardship, sustainable agriculture, and community engagement, creating an environment where visitors can feel connected to these causes firsthand. By supporting the farm, groups reinforce important local efforts to promote food security, protect natural resources, and maintain green spaces in an urban context. The educational components, farm tours, and hands-on activities are all designed to inspire greater awareness and responsibility toward the environment. This aligns the social aspect of group meetups with meaningful action, giving attendees a sense of purpose and contribution. Being part of this conscious community adds an enriching dimension to any gathering and encourages repeat visits as friends share what they’ve learned and experienced.
How does HausBar Urban Farm compare to typical meetup locations?
Compared to typical meetup spots like restaurants, parks, or bars, HausBar Urban Farm offers a uniquely engaging and multifaceted experience that combines leisure with learning and connection to nature. Unlike indoor venues, the farm’s open-air environment invites exploration and activity, which can be especially refreshing for groups tired of conventional social settings. Its emphasis on sustainable living and local food systems provides conversation starters and shared interests that enrich conversations beyond casual small talk. The opportunity to interact with farm animals, participate in gardening activities, or attend specialty events adds layers of engagement that few other meetup places can match. Furthermore, the farm’s rating of 4.5 from 31 reviews suggests a high level of visitor satisfaction, reflecting consistent quality and a welcoming atmosphere. For groups seeking a meaningful, fun, and healthy way to spend time together, HausBar Urban Farm clearly stands out as an exceptional choice.
Who should consider HausBar Urban Farm for their next group meetup?
HausBar Urban Farm is ideal for a diverse range of groups, including families, friend circles, community organizations, school groups, and anyone interested in sustainability and local food. Families with children will find the farm especially appealing because of its safe, hands-on activities and opportunities to learn by doing in a natural setting. Friends looking for a relaxed yet engaging outing will appreciate the combination of farm tours, workshops, and culinary events that can be tailored to their interests. Community groups and clubs focused on health, environment, or education can use the farm as a natural classroom or a venue for themed events. Additionally, those who enjoy unique venues for birthdays, celebrations, or team-building events will find HausBar’s blend of rustic charm and thoughtful programming a refreshing alternative. Essentially, anyone who wants to connect with nature, support sustainable farming, and enjoy quality time with others will benefit from choosing HausBar Urban Farm as a meetup destination.