A farm stay, as the name suggests, is a form of agritourism offered on working farms or ranches. For travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience, staying at a farm presents plenty of opportunities. From milking cows and gathering fresh eggs to feeding farm animals and harvesting crops, these unique stays offer guests a chance to connect with nature, learn about sustainable living, and experience the farming way of life.

Why Choose to Stay at a Farm?

Farm stays have gained immense popularity in recent years among travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. These adventurers are increasingly seeking authentic, meaningful travel experiences that immerse them in local communities, teach them new skills, and enable them to enjoy fresh, locally sourced food.

Other benefits of staying at a farm include:

• escaping the hustle and bustle of city life
• immersing yourself in the tranquility of the countryside
• enjoying fresh air, open spaces, and the sounds of nature
• practicing pet therapy by cuddling with calves and hugging horses
• gaining a deeper appreciation for sustainable living practices

Now that we've established why a farm stay is worth considering, let's look at some of the best farming experiences in the United States and worldwide.

Note: Pictures provided are stock images that may or may not accurately depict each farm stay.

1. Liberty Hill Farm, Vermont

Liberty Hill Farm is a family-owned B&B located in Rochester, Vermont. The farm has been part of the same family for generations and has welcomed guests since 1984. This unique agritourism experience features comfy accommodations in the main house — a Greek Revival inn dating from 1825. Five of the guest rooms have queen-size beds, one room has two twin beds, and the last (seventh) room has four twin beds. All-inclusive perks include free Wi-Fi, a 6 p.m. dinner, a full breakfast at 8 a.m., and farm activities such as milking cows, bottle-feeding baby calves, and hand-feeding Holstein chickens. Guests can also enjoy swimming, fly fishing, and cherry picking in the summer. All-inclusive rates for this farm stay are incredibly reasonable, ranging from $80 to $170 per person per night based on age.

2. Leaping Lamb Farm, Oregon

Leaping Lamb is a sprawling green farm located in Alsea, Oregon. Founded in 1862, it offers one of the most authentic farm stays in the U.S. and is home to various farm animals, including cows, chickens, horses, and of course lambs. Guests can enjoy accommodations in the farm's renovated farmhouse or cozy cabin with a two-night minimum. During their stay, guests can participate in farm activities such as collecting eggs, brushing miniature long-haired donkeys, and learning about sustainable farming practices. They can also explore the surrounding area, including hiking trails, rivers, and scenic drives. Rates for this farm stay are reasonable, starting around $295 per night at the cottage and $395 per night at the farmhouse. Continental breakfast included.

3. Morning Song Farm, California

Just south of Temecula, about halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles, lies Morning Song Farm. This secluded, ranch-style estate offers a unique farm stay in SoCal's near-perfect weather. So, what's unique about this agritourism experience? For starters, the farm is home to exotic livestock, including alpacas and peacocks, which you may be able to pet or feed. Guests can stay in a cozy cabin or bungalow with whimsical themes and enjoy farm-fresh produce during their stay. They can also participate in farm activities such as cheese and jam production, ice cream making, feeding animals, and horseback riding. The farm is close to several popular attractions, including the Temecula Olive Oil Company and Monserate Winery. Rates for this farm stay typically start at $150 and can range up to $300 per night, depending on the season.

4. Arrowhead Country Inn & Cabins, Utah

Arrowhead Farm sits just east of Zion National Park near Mount Carmel Junction amid Utah's breathtaking scenery, with the towering White Cliffs providing a gorgeous backdrop to the farm's vibrant greenery. The working ranch features affordably priced cabins and cottages starting around $179 per night. Here, you'll be able to interact with a variety of livestock, including goats, geese, donkeys, horses, and chickens. We want to emphasize that this is a working ranch, not a resort, though a pool is on-site. As such, you can expect an authentic farm stay and rewarding agritourism experience. The per-night rate includes a breakfast buffet between 8 and 9:30 a.m. An early bird breakfast with juice, coffee, tea, fruit, yogurt, toast, and cereal is also available at 7 a.m. 

5. The Inn on Lake Champlain, New York

The Inn on Lake Champlain is a farm stay experience located in Putnam Station, New York. This is a no-frills establishment where guests aged 17 and above are promised an immersive experience. During their stay, guests must put in four to five hours of manual labor daily. This includes gardening, landscaping, putting in hay, maintaining trails, providing veterinary and care assistance for livestock, painting, and maintaining structures. However, there’s a two-night minimum option for all ages with no manual labor. The farm sprawls across 440 acres and has an authentic Victorian farmhouse dating from the 1870s. Animals include dogs, chickens, cows, and horses. Room rates typically start around $140 and can go up to $175 per night on weekends and holidays. Breakfast is available. 

6. ABC Acres in Bitterroot Valley, Montana

ABC Acres farm offers access to permaculture earthworks, abundant hiking trails, and a range of livestock in Montana’s picturesque Bitterroot Valley. The farm is firmly committed to environmental stewardship and holistic land management, reflected in its organic offerings. Guests can stay in modern cabins and farmhouses year-round and participate in farm activities such as collecting quail eggs, harvesting fresh veggies, and helping to run a full-scale honey bee operation. The cabins and farmhouse come equipped with full kitchens, BBQ stations, fire pits, and more. Rates vary per accommodation type, with per-night charges in the $275–$400 range.

7. Verdant View Farm, Pennsylvania

Verdant View is a charming working farm located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. This family-owned farm offers a unique experience for visitors who want to experience country living in the heart of Amish Country. However, it’s important to note that the owners aren’t Amish, though they have several Amish neighbors. The farm has stayed in the family for four generations, welcoming visitors since 1967. During their stay, guests can participate in morning farm chores starting at 7:30 a.m., which includes milking cows and gathering eggs. They can stay in a farmhouse with three rooms and two suites or a cottage with two rooms and two suites. Both properties feature homey decor, Wi-Fi, and furnished outdoor areas, offering a comfortable stay for guests. Rates start around $139 per night and include breakfast.

8. The Inn at East Hill Farm, New Hampshire

The Inn at East Hill Farm is last on our list of the most authentic farm stays in the U.S.. Located in Troy, New Hampshire, the farm has provided guests with an authentic hands-on experience for over 70 years. From milking cows and goats to churning butter, making cheese, and petting the bunnies, East Hill Farm promises an unforgettable time near the foothills of beautiful Mount Monadnock. Activities on the farm change with the seasons. In winter, guests can enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and supervised sledding. In spring, they can go boating on Perkins Pond and visit newly hatched chicks. Summer is perfect for swimming, fishing, horseback riding, and climbing Mt. Monadnock. Wagon rides through the woods to the pumpkin patch are available in the fall. Overnight rates are affordable, ranging from $57 to $204 per person, and include three meals daily.

Preparing for Your Authentic Farm Stay Experience

If you're planning to stay at a farm where morning chores are expected and you have little to no experience, it's essential to prepare ahead of time. First, make sure to pack comfortable and sturdy shoes since you'll be spending a lot of time on your feet. Ideally, the shoes won’t hold any sentimental value, as they’re likely to get dirty.

Additionally, bring clothes that you don't mind getting dirty and consider packing gloves to protect your hands. You can also do some research on the farm's website or call ahead to ask about the specific tasks you'll be expected to perform and any equipment you might need.

Finally, keep an open mind and be willing to learn from the farmers and other guests. Remember, the farm stay experience is all about connecting with nature and learning about sustainable living practices.

Be sure to explore the rest of our blog for even more travel tips and tricks. And if you're looking for high-quality travel gear to take your journey to the next level, visit our online store today.

Happy farm stay! 🚜🐄🐐🐔🌅💗✨