Agritourism is growing in the U.S., with travelers seeking immersive experiences on small farms. Vermont leads the way, offering personalized visits to farms, orchards, and vineyards.

California vs. Vermont: Two Models of Agritourism

While California has a large-scale agritourism industry, Vermont’s small farms provide a unique, community-based experience. According to Dr. Lisa Chase, director of the Vermont Tourism Research Center, Vermont’s farms are embedded in rural communities, offering a chance to connect with local people and traditions.

Vermont has 6,537 farms, with 323 earning income from agritourism and recreational services. The state’s agritourism network provides technical assistance and training for farmers, helping them to develop personalized, educational experiences for visitors.

Experiencing Rural Life in Vermont

Visitors to Vermont can enjoy a range of activities, from picking berries to attending harvest festivals. They can also learn about maple syrup production, visit sugarhouses, and participate in farm-to-table meals. The state’s agritourism collaborative supports farmers in developing these experiences, which help to promote local food and traditions.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.