According to the U.S. Travel Association, an increasingly popular and growing opportunity for agricultural producers is agritourism. North Texas offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the region’s agricultural heritage, landscape and rural way of life with a variety of attractions that appeal to different interests, including farms, ranches, wineries, orchards and farmers markets. Here are some popular agrotourism destinations.

Farm Tours: Many farms in North Texas offer guided tours where visitors can learn about agricultural practices, interact with farm animals and participate in activities such as fruit picking or vegetable harvesting. Examples include Chandler Family Farm, in Cleburne, and The Gentle Zoo, in Forney.

Pick-Your-Own Farms: North Texas offers a variety of “pick your own” farms where people can enjoy the experience of harvesting their own fresh produce.

·   Pecan Creek Strawberry Farm, in Pilot Point, is known for its delicious strawberries.

·   McKinney-based Pure Land Farm specializes in high-quality fruits and vegetables grown without synthetic additives.

·   Echo Springs Blueberry Farm. In Murchison, offers blueberries, a farm store and bakery with a variety of products.

·   Land Organic Farm, located at 7505 County Road 201, in McKinney, is dedicated to producing high-quality fruits and vegetables in a regenerative manner, without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers or other additives.

·   Find more at PickYourOwn.org.

Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes: During the fall season, pumpkin patches and corn mazes pop up across North Texas. These attractions often include family-friendly activities like hayrides, pumpkin picking and navigating through intricate corn mazes. Hall’s Pumpkin Farm, in Grapevine, and Preston Trail Farms, in Gunter, are popular destinations for fall festivities.

Winery and Vineyard Tours: North Texas has a growing wine industry, with several wineries and vineyards offering tours and tastings. Visitors can explore the vineyards, learn about winemaking processes,, and sample a variety of wines. Examples include Eden Hill Vineyard, in Celina, and Blue Ostrich Winery & Vineyard, in Saint Jo.

Farmers Markets: Abundant in North Texas, they offering fresh produce, locally made products and artisanal goods along with an opportunity for visitors to connect with local farmers and artisans. Examples include the Dallas Farmers Market and the Denton Community Market.

Ranch Stays: Some ranches in North Texas offer accommodations for guests that want to participate in activities such as horseback riding, cattle drives and campfire cookouts. Wildcatter Ranch, in Graham, and Beaumont Ranch, in Grandview, are popular destinations for ranch stays.

Fruit Orchards: North Texas is home to several orchards where visitors can pick their own fruits such as apples, peaches and berries, depending on the season. Many orchards also offer additional activities like hayrides and petting zoos. Examples include Henrietta Creek Orchard, in Roanoke, and Storm Farms, in Arlington.

Educational Workshops: Some agritourism destinations in North Texas offer educational workshops and classes on topics such as gardening, beekeeping and sustainable agriculture that allow participants to learn new skills while connecting with the local farming community. Here are some other examples of North Texas agritourism offerings.

Blueberry Hill Farms, 10268 FM 314, Edom. A picturesque setting for blueberry picking during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy picking their own fresh blueberries and exploring the scenic countryside.

Enoch's Stomp Vineyard & Winery, 871 Ferguson Rd, Harleton. A vineyard and winery that offers wine tastings, tours of the vineyard and fine dining experiences. Visitors can learn about winemaking processes and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Luscombe Farm Market & Garden, 8649 FM 1378, McKinney. A family-owned farm that offers a farmers market with fresh produce, homemade goods and artisanal products. They also host events and workshops throughout the year.

Hartley's Antique & Vintage Truck Museum, 521 W. Oak St., Weatherford. A unique collection of antique trucks and farm equipment. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of transportation and agriculture.

Big Orange Pumpkin Farm, 15102 TX-289, Celina. Fall festivities including pumpkin picking, hayrides, corn mazes and a petting zoo. A popular destination for families during the autumn season.

Sweet Berry Farm, 1801 FM1980, Marble Falls. Pick-your-own strawberries, blackberrie and peaches during the harvest seasons. They also offer activities like flower picking, hayrides, and a corn maze.

Taste of the Country Cooking School, 3702 FM 17, Canton. Cooking classes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can learn new culinary skills and enjoy delicious farm-to-table meals.