Experience Agritourism in Oregon: 10 Farms That Welcome Visitors
Oregon, the hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest, has long been celebrated for its multifaceted agriculture. Fields of lavender sway in the breeze, merry goats prance on their hills, and pumpkin patches endow the landscape with a riot of colors. It’s the perfect playground for agritourism, where farms throw open their rustic gates and invite visitors to experience the heartland at its most authentic. So, grab your hat and walking shoes, and let’s explore 10 farms that offer unforgettable experiences.1. Smith Berry Barn
Tucked away in Hillsboro, Smith Berry Barn has long been a favorite for “u-pick” fruits. From Oregon’s iconic Hood Strawberries to the juiciest boysenberries, the barn is a fruit lover’s paradise. Remember to check their website for picking schedules and don’t forget to try their homemade berry milkshakes!2. Leaping Lamb Farm
For an intimate peek into the lives of a farming family, head over to Leaping Lamb Farm in Alsea. Make friends with horses, turkeys, sheep, chickens, and the ever-so-playful Scottie dog, Tater. Consider taking a farm-stay vacation here for a hands-on farming experience.3. Draper Girls’ Country Farm
Up in the Hood River County, Draper Girls’ Country Farm offers an assortment of colorful fruits and a large petting zoo. They also make their own cider, which pairs perfectly with the stunning views of Mount Hood on a clear day.
4. Rogue Hopyard in Independence
Overlooking the beautiful Willamette River, Rogue Hopyard produces some of the finest aroma hops that give Rogue Beers their distinctive taste. Book a tour during harvest season to learn about their sustainable farming practices.5. Craven Farm
Noble fir trees frame the drive to Craven Farm in Snohomish, making it picture-perfect for any time of year. But the experience becomes truly magical in autumn, with their famous pumpkin patch and the Alice-in-Pumpkinland Corn Maze.6. Willamette Valley Cheese Company
Sample award-winning, handcrafted cheeses at the Willamette Valley Cheese Company. Breathe in the fresh country air while enjoying a picnic with their creamy Brie and Gouda on the lawn overlooking the grazing cows.7. Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm
Springtime in the Willamette Valley showcases Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm’s colors in full bloom. A 40-acre spectacle of tulips and daffodils awaits visitors. It is as close to Holland as you can get without hopping on a plane!8. Bend Soap Company
A visit by The High Desert Museum to Bend Soap Company on a warm day reveals the secret ingredient in their moisturizing soaps – fresh goat’s milk! Say hello to the friendly goats whose milk leads to an artisanal bar of soap that nurtures your skin naturally.9. Brasada Ranch
Tucked in the Powell Butte in Central Oregon, Brasada Ranch is a premium destination for horseback riding, epicurean experiences and picturesque sunsets, apart from regular farm activities. It’s a rural oasis that marries farm life with upscale amenities.10. Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island
Sauvie Island’s Pumpkin Patch offers a genuine taste of rural life. Bask in farm-related festivities in fall, and in summer, pick fresh berries, peaches, and flowers to take home.In Oregon, the boundary between urban and rural frequently blurs, offering an enriching blend of tastes and experiences for everyone. So, whether you’re a curious foodie, an eager naturalist, or an adventurous family, these farms beckon you with their charm. Visit them and experience the magic of Oregon’s soil, sunshine, and spirit firsthand.