Pet adorable goats at the charming Carl Sandburg Home

Go see gardens and goats.

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Carl Sandburg has been described as a “poet of the people.” His poetry and journalism championed civil rights and working-class causes. Today, his legacy lives on through the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site in Flat Rock, North Carolina. Visitors can explore the grounds for free and enjoy everything from lush gardens to friendly goats. And yes, you can pet the goats.

Never visited the Sandburg Home? Here’s what you should know about the site. First, this North Carolina attraction is something of a hidden gem. While many locals know about the site, the grounds rarely see more than 80,000 visitors annually. If you’re tired of crowds at popular national parks, this might be the perfect destination for your next trip.

Plan your visit with this list of the best ways to explore the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site. Find everything from scenic hikes to adorable goats.