After years in the making the Barnyard Experience—a nature-based educational center that provides guests with fun and interactive learning experiences at the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary—is finally open. The 3,400-square-foot barn is the new and improved home for rescued farm animals like miniature donkeys, Hallie and Rosie; Gus the draft horse; miniature horse Dasher; zebu Ernie, and more. Guests can also view an active bee hive as the busy workers produce honey and honeycomb in their indoor hive, pan for gemstones (additional fee) in the 40-foot C.J. Harrison memorial sluice, milk an artificial cow, and view a historic display of the Empire Ranch Barn via artifacts and photos donated by the Folsom Historical Society. The Barnyard Experience is open during regular zoo hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (through August 31).