7 Arizona Agritourism Spots to Add to Your Bucket List
Check out a few of the many must-see Arizona agritourism spots to help you brainstorm where to go on your next vacation to the Grand Canyon State.
1. Red Rock Lavender
What almost began as a vegetable farm and orchard transformed into a beautiful lavender operation at Red Rock Lavender in Concho, Arizona. Their stunning, high-elevation property is home to all kinds of varieties of lavender, including Royal Velvet, Buena Vista, Provence and Munstead. The White Mountains environment where the farm is located is ideal for growing fragrant lavender thanks to elements like clean air and untainted spring water. Whether you want to walk through the perfumed fields, pick up a lavender cutting to take home or explore the myriad of products available in their shop, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do here.
2. Black Mesa Ranch
Black Mesa Ranch has a unique story that is bound to captivate anyone interested in agriculture. Owners Kathryn and David are in charge of this 280-acre, off-grid property in the White Mountains of Arizona. They are continually working toward rehabilitating the land and creating a self-sustainable environment, but they also serve the public through their appetites with Epic Fine Chocolates. The confectionary uses goat’s milk and Arizona-grown pecans to create everything from chocolate caramels and almond toffee to milk fudge and more. You can’t go wrong with anything you pick up at this fun Arizona agritourism spot, and you may even get to see their herd of Nubian goats while you’re there.
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3. Orange Patch Too
The Lehi Valley is a rural area home to Orange Patch Too, a 200-acre citrus farm in beautiful Mesa, Arizona. The farm started as a small roadside stand but has since blossomed into a thriving family business that offers everything from fresh fruit to home decor and specialty foods alongside Christmas gifts and more. It’s a great pit stop for some fresh fruit or a variety of goodies like honey and salsa. They even have baked goods, candies and chocolate if you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter.
See more: What’s in Season? Arizona Produce Calendar
4. Bard Date Company
If you’re a fan of natural sweeteners, you’ll know a little something about the humble Medjool date. But even if you like snacking on these tasty treats, have you ever been visited a company completely dedicated to them? Bard Date Company in Yuma has a long history of growing dates and is more than happy to share their knowledge and expertise through tours and their retail store. We recommend hitting up the tour, but you should also make it a priority to buy some of their stuffed and pecan surprise dates to enjoy later.
5. Hayden Flour Mills
If you’ve never visited a flour mill before, now is your chance. Hayden Flour Mills specializes in heritage and ancient grains and creates everything from flours and crackers to cereals and pancake mixes. It’s a wonderful place to stop if you want to pick up some snacks or treats to take back home. But they also have a calendar of events full of activities that might spark your interest, too. Maybe you want to take a class on artisan pizza or sign up for a homemade tortilla workshop to take your home cooking to the next level. You can even sign up for a tour of the mill if you want to know more about what goes on behind the scenes.
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6. Queen Creek Olive Mill
Olive oil is a key player in quality cuisine – and there are more varieties and flavors out there than most people ever realize. Queen Creek Olive Oil Mill has countless options to choose from, ranging from classics like roasted garlic to more out-of-the-box ones like bacon, Mexican lime and dark chocolate. In addition to their olive oil collection, you can peruse a variety of choice vinegars, stuffed olives, sauces, tapenades and more. Everything you need to take your dinner game up a notch can be purchased right here at this beautiful shop in Queen Creek.
See more: How One Company Is Harvesting Shrimp in an Arizona Desert
7. Schnepf Farms
Who wouldn’t want to visit a farm with the slogan “We grow fun here”? Schnepf Farms has a variety tourist-friendly offerings, ranging from U-pick orchards to glamping and a colorful calendar of events. Maybe you want to stop by for the autumn pumpkin and chili party, or you might feel like taking the kids to pick some of the eight varieties of peaches grown on the farm over the last 50 years. Whatever you decide to do, you can be sure that your visit will be a fun for the whole family.