Top 5: Farm Tours In New York

There’s still a little bit of time left for a farm tour before the weather turns cold. New York State has a wide variety of agricultural producers open to the public for tours and educational opportunities.

Farm To Glass

For those of us who prefer vino to veggies, Farm To Glass is a multiple stop tour operation that features wineries and distilleries in the region. The tours include tastings, snacks and a tasting glass to take home. Tours are offered in two areas of the state, Rhinebeck and Hudson.

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The Queens County Farm Museum

The Queens County Farm Museum is one of the oldest continuously working farms, dating to 1697. Admission is free every day of the week, excluding special events, and historic tours and hayrides are available. The Insider’s Tour is $10 per guest and gives an overview of the entire sustainable farming operation.

Murphy Orchards

Murphy Orchards offers both agricultural and historical tours. The fruit farm was home to the McClew family in the mid-19^th century and part of the Underground Railroad for almost 11 years. You can also pick your own fruits and veggies during harvest season, and can still pick apples and plums right into October.

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Farm Sanctuary

Farm Sanctuary in the Finger Lakes Region isn’t your run-of-the-mill farm visit, but is an educational and enjoyable experience all the same. The shelter is home to more than 500 farm animals that have been rescued from abuse and unsafe living conditions.

Green Chimneys

Green Chimneys is not only a farm, but also a special education school and residence. The farm is intended to provide children with emotional and mental health issues an opportunity to interact with animals in an agrarian setting. Home to more than 300 animals and 200 children, Green Chimneys offers farm and wildlife tours to the public, along with pony and hay rides. They offer many events through the year as well, including a harvest festival, canoe daytrips and live demonstrations.