Meet the Makers: Farm Visits & Educational Experiences in Asheville
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers more than breathtaking landscapes and vibrant arts. It’s a place where rolling pastures meet dedication to sustainable farming, where food lovers can connect with the roots of their meals, and where families can make cherished memories with baby goats and wagon rides. Visiting a farm in Asheville is more than just an outing—it’s an awakening to the incredible work that sustains our food systems.
From milking goats at Hickory Nut Gap Farm to marveling at fluffy alpacas at Jazzy Acres, Asheville’s farms blend hands-on fun with a deeper appreciation for agricultural heritage. Whether you’re a passionate foodie, a curious eco-tourist, or a parent searching for enriching weekend adventures, Asheville’s thriving agritourism scene is calling your name. Below, we’ll explore some of the region’s must-visit farms and share the unforgettable experiences they offer.
Step into history at Hickory Nut Gap Farm—where generations of farming, family traditions, and community come to life through vintage photographs and stories. | 📷: Hickory Nut Gap Farm
Why Visit Farms in Asheville?
Imagine the crunch of freshly harvested apples in autumn, the hum of bees buzzing around a sunflower field, or the laughter of kids as they pull carrots straight from the soil. Asheville’s farms aren’t just picturesque—they’re alive with activity. Here's why a visit should top your list:
Learn and Connect: Gain insight into sustainable farming, from animal care to crop cycles. Witness firsthand the intricate processes that bring fresh, wholesome food to your table.
Support Local: By visiting local farms, you empower hardworking families and support greener, healthier food systems.
Bond with Nature: Farm visits offer a rare chance to unplug, breathe in crisp mountain air, and immerse yourself in the simplicity of the land.
Enjoy the Taste of Place: Asheville’s farms deliver unmatched freshness. What could taste better than produce or dairy you picked up at the very source?
And if you’re a fan of Asheville’s renowned farm-to-table dining scene, this is your opportunity to meet the farmers who make it possible.
Asheville’s Farm Experiences
To help you curate your perfect farm adventure, we’ve highlighted some of Asheville’s standout farms. Each offers something unique, ensuring there’s an experience to suit everyone.
Golden hour on the farm—where the land, the herd, and the sky come together in harmony. | 📷: Hickory Nut Gap Farm
Hickory Nut Gap Farm
Location: Fairview, NC
Why Visit: A quintessential family-friendly farm experience awaits. Known for its dedication to regenerative agriculture, this historic farm has been a community treasure for over 100 years.
Activities & Experiences:
Meet and greet animals like goats, cows, and pigs.
Enjoy hayrides while basking in stunning mountain views.
Savor farm-to-table dining at their cafe, featuring meats from their pastures.
Seasonal u-pick apples and pumpkins (fall is magical here).
Perfect For: Families looking for fun, education, and a wholesome outing.
📅 Open year-round, with seasonal events like their Harvest Festival in October.
Nature’s bounty thrives at the foot of the mountains. | 📷: Flying Cloud Farm
Flying Cloud Farm
Location: Fairview, NC
Why Visit: A charming farm where fields overflow with flowers, vegetables, and berries ripe for the picking. This is the spot for budding botanists or those craving a peaceful escape.
Activities & Experiences:
Pick-your-own seasonal produce—strawberries and sunflowers are fan favorites.
Purchase fresh veggies, flowers, and homemade jam at their honor-system roadside stand.
Attend workshops on small-scale sustainable farming practices.
Perfect For: Garden lovers, aspiring green thumbs, and anyone eager to curate their own perfect bouquet.
📅 Best visited May through October for peak blooms and produce.
These alpacas at Jazzy Acres are serving looks, personality, and a whole lot of charm. | 📷: Jazzy Acres Alpaca Ranch
Jazzy Acres Alpaca Ranch
Location: Leicester, NC
Why Visit: If you’ve never had the pleasure of meeting an alpaca, you’re missing out on their quirky charm. At Jazzy Acres, these fluffy creatures captivate visitors while highlighting eco-friendly fiber farming.
Activities & Experiences:
Take a farm tour and learn about raising alpacas for their soft, luxurious wool.
Interact with the gentle herd and snap some alpaca selfies.
Shop handmade alpaca products—scarves, socks, and more keep this memory close.
Perfect For: Animal lovers and anyone seeking a unique, interactive farm visit.
📅 Tours available by appointment, ensuring an intimate experience.
These baby goats at Round Mountain Creamery know how to relax in style. | 📷: Round Mountain Creamery
Round Mountain Creamery
Location: Black Mountain, NC
Why Visit: North Carolina’s first Grade "A" goat dairy specializes in crafting artisanal cheeses that reflect the land’s rich terroir.
Activities & Experiences:
Take a guided tour to meet their goats and learn about cheese-making.
Sample a variety of creamy, tangy goat cheeses—pairs perfectly with a glass of wine later.
Watch demonstrations on milking and sustainable practices.
Perfect For: Foodies with a love for cheese and a curiosity about its farm-fresh origins.
📅 Tours offered in spring through fall—perfect for sunny afternoons.
Moo-ve over, ordinary ice cream—Mills River Creamery is serving up the freshest dairy delights!
Mills River Creamery
Location: Mills River, NC
Why Visit: Ice cream dreams are made here. Specializing in small-batch creamery goods, Mills River is family-friendly and community-focused.
Activities & Experiences:
Taste fresh homemade ice cream made using premium milk from local cows.
Learn about dairy farming and the production process on engaging farm tours.
Perfect For: Families looking for simple joys and sweet treats.
📅 Open year-round for tours and tastings—but visit on a warm day for that cone of ice cream.
Beyond the Farm
If you’re eager to extend your agritourism adventure, Asheville’s rich food scene offers plenty of options:
The North Asheville Tailgate Market is the perfect weekend stop for local goodies and good vibes. | 📷: North Asheville Tailgate Market
Peruse fresh goods at North Asheville Tailgate Market.
The Market Place delivers fresh, locally inspired dishes. | 📷: The Market Place
Dine at The Market Place, hailed for its locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes.
This beautiful collection of aged cheeses is a testament to the art of cheesemaking. | 📷: WNC Cheese Trail
Time your visit with Asheville’s lively Carolina Mountain Cheese Fest.
Organizations like ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) also offer resources to connect with the region’s local farms and food systems.
Tips for Planning Your Farm Visit
Before heading out, ensure your visit is well-prepared:
Seasonal Timing: Check ahead for harvest cycles and seasonal events—fall is great for u-pick apples and hayrides.
What to Bring:
Closed-toe shoes (for muddy terrain).
Hats, sunscreen, and water bottles (stay comfortable outdoors).
A reusable bag for fresh produce or treasures from the farm shop.
Farm Etiquette:
Respect farm rules and boundaries.
Interact with animals gently and only as guided by staff.
Leave fields and trails exactly as you found them.
Create Cherished Memories in Asheville
A visit to Asheville’s farms is far more than a scenic drive into the countryside—it’s a celebration of the bond between people, food, and the earth. From watching goats graze to mastering sustainable farming techniques, these experiences enrich both heart and mind.
Which farms have captured your interest? Share your thoughts and farm stories in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us at Asheville Elevated for more insider tips and inspiration for your next countryside adventure.
Golden hour magic at Flying Cloud Farm! | 📷: Flying Cloud Farm