Maximizing Farm Income Through Agritourism
Agritourism is an excellent way for small farms to diversify and supplement their income.
By offering unique, farm-based experiences, you can attract visitors seeking authentic, rural adventures. Here's how to leverage various agritourism opportunities to boost your farm's profitability!
RV Space Rentals and Hosting
Boondockers Welcome and
Harvest Hosts are fantastic platforms for renting out RV spaces. Many travelers prefer staying on farms for the special experience and peaceful environment. Ensure your farm has basic amenities like water and electricity hookups to attract RVers. Promote the serene and scenic aspects of your farm to entice visitors.
Short-term Accommodations
Platforms like
Airbnb can be used to rent out rooms, cabins, tiny houses, or even set up glamping tents. Here are a few ideas:
- Cabins and Tiny Houses: Build cozy cabins or tiny houses that offer a rustic, yet comfortable stay. Highlight the natural beauty and tranquility of your farm.
- Glamping: Set up luxury tents with comfortable beds, electricity, and heating. Glamping combines the adventure of camping with the comforts of home, attracting a broad range of guests.
You-Pick Operations
"You-Pick" operations allow visitors to pick their own produce, offering a hands-on farming experience. Popular options include:
- Berry Picking: Strawberries, blueberries, thornless blackberries and raspberries are favorites.
- Apple Orchards: Offer apple picking in the fall.
- Pumpkin Patches: Perfect for autumn, you can combine this with other seasonal events like hayrides.
Seasonal Events
Hosting seasonal events can draw large crowds to your farm. Consider these activities:
- Pumpkin Patches and Hayrides: These are classic fall attractions. Combine them with corn mazes and scarecrow-making workshops for a full day of family fun.
- Christmas Tree Farms: Allow visitors to cut down their own Christmas tree. Pair this with hot cocoa and a visit from Santa Claus for a magical holiday experience.
Farm Tours and Animal Visits
Educational tours and animal interactions can be major draws.
- Farm Tours: Offer guided tours that explain your farming practices, crop cycles, and the history of your farm. This can be particularly appealing to school groups and families.
- Animal Visits: Let visitors interact with farm animals. Goat yoga has become increasingly popular, providing a fun and relaxing way for guests to engage with animals.
- Make sure to properly protect your business with the addition of any animal-centered activities, especially 'petting zoos.'
Specialized Experiences
Creating unique experiences can set your farm apart. Consider these specialized offerings:
- Goat Yoga: Combine yoga sessions with playful goats. This quirky activity has a broad appeal and can be marketed as a unique fitness and relaxation experience.
- Workshops and Classes: Offer workshops on gardening, cooking with farm-fresh ingredients, or crafts like soap and candle making.
Marketing Your Agritourism Business
To successfully attract visitors, effective marketing is crucial. Here are some strategies:
- Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to share beautiful photos and engaging stories about your farm. Highlight visitor experiences and a behind-the-scenes look at farm life.
- Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses and tourism boards to reach a wider audience. Offer package deals with nearby attractions or restaurants.
- Online Presence: Ensure your farm has a professional website with easy online booking options. Provide detailed information about the experiences you offer, along with high-quality photos and customer reviews.
- Join the
Arkansas Agritourism Association for more resources
Agritourism offers a fantastic opportunity to diversify your income and share the joys of farming with a broader audience. By offering a variety of activities and accommodations, you can attract a wide range of visitors and create memorable experiences that keep them coming back year after year. Start small, evaluate what works best for your farm, and gradually expand your offerings. Happy farming and hosting!
Feel free to tailor this guide to better fit the specifics of your farm and the experiences you wish to offer. Agri-tourism is a flexible and rewarding way to enhance your farm's income while sharing your love of agriculture with others.
Share


