Photo Credit: James Jordan

Agritourism involves experiencing the ranch or farm life. Growing in popularity around the world, agritourism offers an escape to the country, where you pick farm-fresh produce from dozens of local farmers markets and also harvest it right from the field yourself on a working farm. And with farms dotting the landscape, Tennessee is a natural choice for agritourism. Don’t forget to join the festivals for some fun off the field, too!

Food and Farmer’s Markets

Tennessee’s temperate climate and rich soil create an environment indicative to a variety of flowers and edibles. This variety is highlighted at local farmers markets where shoppers can find seasonal vegetables, herbs, fruits, berries and honey, along with grass-fed meats, eggs and specialty cheeses. For those with a sweet-tooth, there are also fresh-baked breads, cookies, granola and scones, accompanied by jams, jellies and colorful condiments. Good farmers markets usually lead to more organic eateries, and Tennessee is no exception here, either.

Farms, Fields and Flowers

In Tennessee, there are historic farms, working farms, and educational farms. Whether it be learning how agriculture has changed over the years at the West Tennessee Agricultural Museum, picking blueberries from the field, or milking a cow, there is an option to tickle everyone’s fancy. Tennessee is also well-known for its gardens-such as Cheekwood Botanical Gardens - greenhouses, and florists alike, so be sure to take some time to stop and smell the roses.

Fun and Festivals

Like any good farmer, we all have to take some time to kick back, relax, and have a little fun. Tennessee is just the place to do it, too. With fairs and festivals happening year-round, there is always something going on. May 1st – 7th is the West Tennessee Strawberry festival in Humboldt which is one of the oldest and best Festivals in the State of Tennessee. The festival is a week-long event filled with parades, carnivals, street dancers and beauty pageants. There’s also the Spring Garden Fair near Kingsport (May 30th – April 1st) where thousands of live plants are displayed for spring planting and activities on a 1850s farm.