Agritourism: defined most broadly, involves any agriculturally based operation or activity that brings visitors to a farm or ranch.
Photo: Media File. Agritourism in Gilbert, AZ
Can you believe it, here in Arizona? Yes, Agritourism is popping up all over the Valley.
Farm rich country, that’s what they call Mesa. With its bountiful harvest, fresh experiences, and a treasured heritage of family farms and long-standing festivals make for lasting memories. It’s like a culinary gateway to Phoenix and Scottsdale.
The neighboring farms in and around the entire Valley are providing a bounty of seasonal goods for visitors to enjoy year-round. Citrus in January, Peaches in May, Olives in October. Travelers can time their visits to experience beautiful settings and even meet Arizona farmers and winemakers.
True Garden
True Garden is the first high-tech greenhouse capable of producing most cool-season food crops year-round even in the scorching desert. The temperatures reach 120 degrees during the day and 90 degrees at night during the hot peak months; however, the greenhouse uses little energy by utilizing smart and efficient technology to keep it at optimal temps, affordable both day and night. The result, True Garden’s delicious produce.
Photo: Media File. Agritopia in Gilbert
Agritopia
This planned community offers a modern village life surrounding 11 acres of urban farmland, where a “tree-lined sidewalk leads you to a chef-driven restaurant, where creative spaces encourage craftsmanship, and where charming homes nestle close. Here, people live, work, eat, shop, create, and come together. This is home, however, you choose to define it.” It’s absolutely amazing.
Queen Creek Olive Mill
Arizona’s only working olive farm and mill. Family owned and operated, this 100-acre farm with over 7000 olive trees is a true blossom to bottle experience. Visitors are able to learn first-hand how olives are pressed into fresh extra virgin olive oil. There are tours conducted daily. Tons of fun for the family.
Schnepf Farms
A really fun place. Everything from “pick your own fruit” to Glamping, to Weddings and buying from the bakery, this is a fun farm. Don’t miss out, pretty much every holiday is celebrated – Halloween, Christmas, Easter, and more.
Hayden Flour Mill
It’s all about the hometown flour. Hayden Flour Mills was started by a father and daughter and is run by a team who mills some of the world’s oldest ancient heritage grains using sustainable methods. They incorporate this method throughout the process, from seed to table. The mill is located on the farm where most of their grains are grown.
The Windmill Winery
Not far from Phoenix and Tucson, the Windmill Winery is naturally beautiful and a historic setting for a wedding, or a night out with family and friends. It overlooks the picturesque Superstition Mountains. Sip a glass of Arizona-made wine from this breathtaking property. It’s a perfect day-trip.
Many of these farms and ranches offer tours and events. Check each website for availability and dates.
