Agritourism

Agritourism continues to grow as a popular niche within the tourism industry, offering visitors authentic, hands‑on experiences that connect them to agriculture, local history, and rural life. Many people are seeking opportunities to learn something new, reconnect with their roots, or simply escape the stress of everyday routines for a slower, more meaningful experience.

Farm visits provide a day in the country where guests can pick berries, enjoy hayrides, sample homegrown or homemade products, meet farm animals, and learn how farms operate. The range of agritourism activities is incredibly diverse — from farm stays and U‑pick operations to pumpkin patches, corn mazes, wine tastings, farm‑to‑table dining, festivals, and more. Visitors are willing to pay for these experiences when they feel the price is fair and the value is clear.

For farmers, agritourism offers an important additional revenue stream that can help sustain their operations and improve family quality of life. Many farms that once relied heavily on wholesale markets have turned to agritourism to offset low commodity prices and earn more through direct‑to‑consumer sales. Some have even reduced acreage while increasing profitability by capturing not only the consumer’s food dollar but also a portion of the spending on recreation and entertainment.

Sullivan County is especially well‑positioned for agritourism thanks to its abundance of small, diverse farms and its rich natural landscape. Visitors can easily pair a farm experience with hiking, fishing, or exploring the Catskills, making the region an ideal destination for outdoor‑minded travelers. The county’s proximity to New York City also gives farms access to millions of potential visitors seeking a rural escape that’s only a short drive away. In addition, major attractions like Bethel Woods Center for the Arts draw steady tourism to the area, creating opportunities for farms to connect with new audiences and offer complementary experiences. Together, these assets give Sullivan County farms a distinct advantage in building successful, memorable agritourism offerings.

Agritourism is a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. The growth of wine trails, breweries, and farm‑based experiences demonstrates the sector’s potential. As more farms explore agritourism, opportunities to attract visitors continue to expand. Collaboration among farmers — such as creating farm trails, hosting open‑house events, or developing joint marketing efforts — strengthens the industry and helps build new attractions that keep visitors returning year after year.

Getting Started in Agri-Tourism

Last updated March 20, 2026