Before petting zoos opened, the only way for humans to interact directly with animals was to play chess with the squirrels in the park. Make more fulfilling animal friendships with today's Groupon: for $10, you get petting-zoo admission for four and four cups of grain at Flamig Farm in West Simsbury (a $20 value).

Since 1907, Flamig Farm has developed into a reputable educational-resource facility complete with an extensive petting zoo. Visitors can frolic with emus, ducks, and sheep, then cuddle with bunnies and piglets. Though not included in this Groupon, the farm offers several other activities, including pony rides, hikes, and hayrides. The farm closes when the weather gets cold, so be sure to visit before animals migrate to Hollywood and resume their winter jobs as fast-food commercial spokesmen.