Explore Agritourism in Oregon: These 10 Farms Welcome Enthusiastic Visitors
As a local, there’s nothing quite as enchanting as the endless fields and rolling hills of Oregon’s rich agricultural landscape, abuzz with the rustic energy of hearty frontier life and fresh farm-to-table fare.
1. Gathering Together Farm
Nestled in the luscious Willamette Valley, Gathering Together Farm isn’t just known for its high-quality, certified organic produce, but it’s beloved for its educational farm tours and bustling FM farm stand. This farm has a heartwarming family atmosphere that’s as Oregonian as our love for the Portland Timbers.
2. Smith Berry Barn
Located in the lovely rural community of Scholls, Smith Berry Barn is a must-visit u-pick berry farm in the summer. The fruit here is top quality, but don’t miss the chance to lose yourself in their incredible hummingbird garden. Take home a jar of homemade berry jam as a sweet memento.
3. Oregon Olive Mill
Heading south down 99W, Durante Vineyards is home to the Oregon Olive Mill, a pioneering handcraft producer of extra-virgin olive oil. Their annual Olio Nuovo Festa, celebrating the olive harvest, gives you an authentic taste of Italian tradition in the heart of Oregon wine country.
4. Springhill Cellars
Albany’s Springhill Cellar winery was designed to do more than just pour glasses of incredible Pinot. This unique vineyard doubles as a pumpkin patch in the fall, inviting visitors to pick the perfect Jack-o’-lantern while enjoying award-winning wines.
5. EZ Orchards Farm Market
Throughout the year, EZ Orchards in Salem hosts a variety of seasonal events, from apple and peach picking during the fall, to their beloved ‘Shortcake Season’ in summer. Here, the farm’s local cider donuts and fresh farm stands are as not-to-be-missed as a visit to Powell’s City of Books in downtown Portland.
6. Bob’s Red Mill Whole Grain Store
Bob’s Red Mill is a testament to the beauty of grains. A tour of their Milwaukie mill offers a peek into the magic behind their stone-ground flour and whole grains. Don’t forget to book a lunch date at their on-site restaurant, serving some of the heartiest breakfasts in Clackamas County.
7. Rogue Creamery Dairy
From the foot of the Siskiyou Mountains, Rogue Creamery Dairy produces internationally recognized hand-crafted artisanal cheeses. This farm, in the heart of the scenic Rogue Valley, presents a chance to savor the essence of Oregon’s dairy heritage.
8. Lee Farms
Tualatin’s Lee Farms is a pit-stop seven generations in the making. Known for its famous ‘Tualatin Pumpkin Hunt’ and strawberry donuts, Lee Farms seamlessly entwines Oregon’s agricultural charm with community-centric events for all ages.
9. Marquam Hill Ranch
Located near the base of the picturesque Mount Hood, Marquam Hill Ranch raises heritage American Alpacas in a sustainable manner. Visitors can explore the idyllic farm, meet the fuzzy residents up-close and pick up some cozy Alpaca wool products.
10. White’s Country Farm
Steeped in Medford’s rustic backcountry, White’s Country Farm adds a spin to Agritourism by offering a culinary taste of Southern Oregon. Their annual Tomato Tasting event is a delicious way to experience the diverse flavors of locally grown heirloom tomatoes.
Remember, these stops offer just a taste of the close-knit farming community that stretches across Oregon’s picturesque countryside. Being a part of the Agriculture scene is as essential to the Oregonian spirit as the scattering of food trucks at Portland Saturday Market, or the bustle of Powell’s City of Books on a drizzly Pacific Northwest afternoon.