8 Ways to Enjoy Wisconsin’s AgTourism Industry
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Tourism in Wisconsin can come in so many forms: out-of-state visitors coming to see the Waterpark Capital of the World or to take in a Packers game, locals on a weekend “staycation” in Door County, or those looking to explore the many faces of Wisconsin’s agriculture industry (and although we’re known for the dairy industry, agriculture doesn’t always refer to cows). Our friends at Something Special from Wisconsin™ helped us come up with a few destinations for those looking for the full AgTourism experience.
1. Apple Holler: This orchard offers pre-picked and pick-your-own apples, peaches, pears and pumpkins, featuring over 30,000 trees and Grandma’s pumpkin patch. Its farm-to-table restaurant is open 7 days a week and draws in visitors for breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend buffets and daily specials, while its Country Gift Shop and Bakery offers unique gifts, toys, soaps, wines, pastries and more. Whether you’ve come 5 miles or 500, Apple Holler is sure to be a treat for AgTourism enthusiasts. (http://somethingspecialwi.com/list/member/apple-holler-apple-farm-management-inc-sturtevant-2191)
2. Northleaf Winery: Northleaf Winery features everything from Green Apple Riesling and Peach Chardonnay to Cherry Chocolate Bliss and Tropical Viognier. Visit for a wine tasting in the restored 1850 tasting room, or stop by for live music on Fridays. Either way, Northleaf Winery, housed in a 166 year-old building on the National Registry of Historic Places, will satisfy the AgTourist in you! (http://somethingspecialwi.com/list/member/northleaf-winery-milton-4764)
3. Meuer Farm LLC: Boasting 150-acres of farmland, Meuer Farm offers AgTourism activities for strawberry-pickers, corn maze-navigators, hayride fanatics, pumpkin harvesters, and those who enjoy a good ole farm-to-table dinner. Visit the Busy Bee Country Store for local artisan products, including honey, maple syrup, rolled oats, flour and nuts. (http://somethingspecialwi.com/list/member/meuer-farm-llc-chilton-5101)
4. Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast Association: While on your AgTourism trip, the best way to stay is at one of the many Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast Association locations. Gorgeous, historical and contemporary homes and cabins can be found in every corner of the state. Not to mention, the homemade breakfasts are to-die-for. (http://somethingspecialwi.com/list/member/wisconsin-bed-breakfast-association-wbba-merrill-5038)
5. Wetherby Cranberry Company: Wisconsin produces 60% of the world’s cranberries, and Wetherby has provided more than 100 years of family-grown cranberries. Located in the heart of cranberry country, this family-owned and operated marsh hosts its annual “Harvest Day” on the first Saturday of October, where local schools, travel groups and families can visit the marsh and learn about the harvesting process. (http://somethingspecialwi.com/list/member/wetherby-cranberry-company-warrens-5291)
6. Down a Country Road: Located on a farm amongst the beautiful rolling countryside of southwestern Wisconsin and in the heart of Amish country, Down a Country Road is home to the Village Shops. The Amish Shop, The Little Red Shed, Emma’s Kitchen, Country Corner Ice Cream Shoppe, Kinner Korner Children’s Shop and Not So Plain & Simple are what make up Down a Country Road and offer visitors everything from furniture, wooden toys, and soaps, lotions and perfumes, to Amish treats, Wisconsin-made ice cream, jams and jellies, noodles, pancake mixes, maple syrup and more. (http://somethingspecialwi.com/list/member/down-a-country-road-cashton-3179)
7. Creek Bed Country Farmacy LLC: For family-friendly activities such as hayrides, a pumpkin patch and Wisconsin’s largest corn maze in autumn, or strawberry-picking in June, visit Creek Bed Country Farmacy. Its autumn activities, including a tractor show, live blue grass music, and a trick-or-treat scavenger hunt, keep locals and AgTourists coming back year after year. (http://somethingspecialwi.com/list/member/creek-bed-country-farmacy-llc-poynette-2989)
8. Waseda Farms: This Door County farm welcomes visitors to walk the trails and stop in to the on-site market, and also offers tours to school-aged children and college groups looking to learn about organic farming and sustainable practices. The Waseda Farms market features meats, produce, deli, dairy and much more. (http://somethingspecialwi.com/list/member/waseda-farms-baileys-harbor-4804)
Wisconsin provides products of all kinds for much of the state and country. First-time visitors from out of state and regulars from down the road can all enjoy a tour of all that Wisconsin’s agriculture industry has to offer. What’s your favorite way to enjoy Wisconsin’s AgTourism industry? Share with us on social media using #DiscoverWisconsin.
Something Special from Wisconsin™ is a trademarked program administered by the Division of Agricultural Development at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection since 1983. Every dollar spent on Something Special from Wisconsin™ products and services supports local farmers, food processors, entrepreneurs, our communities and livelihood, as well as the Wisconsin way of life. Something Special from Wisconsin™ products are unique and of the highest quality, making them perfect for gift-giving, special occasions and every day!
Kristen Finstad is a member of the Discover Wisconsin crew. Having grown up in River Falls, attending UW-Stevens Point and now living in Madison, she’s a Wisconsin girl through and through. Watch Discover Wisconsin TV Saturday mornings at 10 on Fox Sports Wisconsin. (Twitter: @DiscoverWI)
