farm tours washington state

7 Welcoming Washington Farms To Visit For a Picture-Perfect Fall Day

Jessica Wick

Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.

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Washington’s agricultural industry is truly something to be proud of. We’ve even got some great farms that are open to the public, some of which are especially lovely in the fall. If you want to spend a relaxing day on a farm in the weeks to come, consider one of these 7.

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Take advantage of this year’s abundant fall harvest by checking out your local farm. And check out these charming apple orchards as well.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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THE 10 BEST Washington Farms

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1. B & B Family Lavender Farm

2. Amaro Farm

3. Pelindaba Lavender Farm

4. Green Bluff

5. Buck Bay Shellfish Farm

6. Westcott Bay Shellfish Co.

7. Purple Haze Lavender Farm

8. The Lavender Connection

9. Graysmarsh Berry Farm

10. Johnson's Orchards

11. Heyday Farm

12. Goldendale Reindeer

13. Remlinger Farms

14. Outback Kangaroo Farm

15. Jardin du Soleil

16. Finnriver Farm & Cidery

17. The Farm at Krystal Acres

18. Bellewood Farms Distillery

19. Schuh Farms

20. Smallwood's Harvest

21. Lattin's Country Cider Mill & Farm

22. Lavender Hill Farm

23. Firwood Farm Alpacas

24. Bill's Berry Farm

25. The Farm at Swan's Trail

26. Bybee Blueberry Farm

27. Chocolate Flower Farm

28. Finnriver Orchard & Cider Garden

29. Dugualla Bay Farms

30. Gordon Skagit Farms

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• Food & Drink

Visit some of Washington’s 33,000 farms

Washington state boasts more than 33,000 farms, many of which offer farm tours and other activities during the summer. We offer a sampling of what's available along many popular summer-vacation routes.

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More than 33,000 farms call Washington home, nestled in mountain valleys, sprawled across rolling hills, tucked into pockets of land between cities, sprinkled hither and thither on Puget Sound islands.

With the sun finally shining and markets bursting with fresh produce, the time is ripe to visit a farm, ranch, orchard or dairy, sample the abundance and learn more about where your food grows. Some offer scheduled tours. With an appointment, others will show you around the barnyard and fields (dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes).

Many offer farm stands or shops during the summer months, an ideal way to supplement camping meals, a picnic lunch or a road trip with fruit, fresh sausage, preserves, salad greens and more.

Here’s a sampling of interesting spots along popular vacation routes as well as a handful within an hour’s drive of Seattle. For more ideas, ask at your neighborhood farmers market, call your local Slow Food group or visit Puget Sound Fresh at www.pugetsoundfresh.org for profiles of these and other farms.

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Within an hour of Seattle

21 Acres Farm (13701 N.E. 171st St., Woodinville, 206-442-2061, www.21acres.org ): This nonprofit farm is home to livestock, acres of produce destined for local farmers markets, more than 80 community growing plots, walking trails and fields used to demonstrate sustainable and organic farming practices. The farm hosts a tour at 11 a.m. the first Saturday of the month through October. The Aug. 2 tour will include presentations from Sammamish Valley 4-H groups. Call ahead to schedule tours other days.

Langley Fine Gardens (10012 S.W. 268th, Vashon, 206-463-3516, e-mail preferred at Langley900 @aol.com ): Matt and Leda Langley lead a farm tour and heirloom- tomato day 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 17. Pack a picnic lunch and visit the farm store, which has more than 30 varieties of heirloom tomatoes, 25 varieties of heirloom cooking greens and lettuces, 15 types of potatoes and four colors of carrots. Find more information about the tour and other island farms at www.stov.us/at/agroIntro.html .

Full Circle Farm (31904 N.E. Eighth St., Carnation, 425-333-4579 or fullcirclefarm.com ): Watch biodiesel- fueled tractors at work on this 260-acre certified organic farm which grows more than 125 varieties of fruit, vegetables and herbs and features a heritage-foods garden. This Saturday also is the first installment of the Helping Hands Project, in which volunteers can try their hand at a variety of farming tasks at several local farms, beginning with Full Circle. Call Tim Bernthal at 206-783-3088 or Mark McIntyre at 206-632-0606 for more information or visit www.cascadeharvest.org (click on Helping Hands). If you’d rather stroll and enjoy, call ahead for an appointment.

River Valley Ranch (34920 S.E. Fall City-Snoqualmie Road, Fall City, 425-222-5277, rivervalleycheese.com ): Meet a variety of goats, water buffalo, yaks, sheep and cows, all of which contribute their milk toward the ranch’s artisan cheeses. Call to schedule a tour, which often includes a chance to bottle-feed the livestock.

“We have lots of bottle-feeding opportunities, lots of yak kisses,” said owner Julie Steil.

En route to Vancouver, B.C.

Bellewood Acres (231 Ten Mile Road, Lynden, 360-398-9187, open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily, www.bellewoodapples.com ): See 22,000 apple trees in the shadow of Mount Baker. Wander the farm and explore the packing line, juice line and cooler.

En route to camping spots along scenic Highway 20

Skagit River Ranch (28778 Utopia Road, Sedro-Woolley, 360-856-0722, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays, www.skagitriverranch.com ): This ranch in the Skagit Valley sells organic beef, chicken, pork and eggs. Eiko Vojkovich, who owns the farm with her husband, George, says many folks stop by wanting to know where their food comes from — and to savor it.

“A lot of people are on the way to camping trips on Highway 20, and they stop by and buy sausages and a burger so they can cook out,” she said. “They’re all frozen, so they throw them in the cooler and go.”

Cascadian FARM Home Farm (55749 Highway 20, Rockport, 360-853-8173, open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily in summer, www.cascadianfarm.com/products/homefarm ): This 27-acre berry farm on the Skagit River features fresh organic berries, homemade ice cream, pickles and salsas.

En route to the Olympic Peninsula

Nash’s Organic Produce (1865 E. Anderson Road, Sequim, 360-683-4642, www.nashsorganicproduce.com ): Call ahead for tours of this sprawling farm, located in the Sequim-Dungeness Valley, which has sold produce (including its famous sweet carrots) at the Port Angeles Farmers Market since 1979. If you just want a taste, visit the farm store on site 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Nash’s also holds an annual farm day Oct. 4 with a petting zoo, pumpkin sculpture, wagon rides and more.

Sequim Lavender Festival: If you’re heading west July 18-20, you’re in time for the festival, featuring nearly 30 fragrant farms, abloom with 144 varieties of the purple flowers, and a street fair to boot. Visit www.lavenderfestival.com or call 360-681-3035 or 877-681-3035.

Mt. Townsend Creamery (338 Sherman St., Port Townsend, 360-379-0895, www.mttownsendcreamery.com ): See how the creamery’s award-winning artisanal cheeses are crafted and visit the creamery store Saturdays and Sundays starting this weekend.

En route to Eastern/

Central Washington

Thompson’s Farm (9535 Old Naches Highway, Naches, 509-653-2589, www.thompsonsfarm.com ): This family-owned (since 1898) orchard grows more than 35 varieties of fruit including cherries, peaches, apples and pears. Call ahead for the U-Pick schedule or to arrange a traipse through the orchards.

The family also runs a farm store with fruit, cider, vinegars, honey, jams and jellies along Highway 12 in Naches, with a soda fountain where you can grab a cherry soda or a root-beer float (509-653-2848). Don’t worry about the address, Nancy Thompson says: “Naches is so small that as you pass it you’ll only pass about 10 buildings. My husband [that’s John] says it’s the kind of town Norman Rockwell would paint.”

En route to coastal beaches

Pacific Coast Cranberry Museum & Self-Guided Farm Tour (2907 Pioneer Road, Long Beach, 360-642-5553, open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, www.cranberrymuseum.com ): Visit the bogs where these tart berries grow and learn how different varieties are cultivated.

Post summer

Farm tours and harvest festivals abound in the fall if you don’t make it out this summer. Learn more about the Sept. 27 King County/Washington State University Extension annual Harvest Celebration Farm Tour at king.wsu.edu/foodandfarms/HarvestCelebration.html or the Oct. 4 Skagit Valley Farm Tour at www.festivaloffamilyfarms.com . Or, call your favorite farms to see if they offer harvest celebrations of their own.

Karen Gaudette: 206-515-5618

or [email protected]

Home > Washington > 7 Washington Agritourism Experiences You Don’t Want to Miss

7 Washington Agritourism Experiences You Don’t Want to Miss

The Evergreen State is simply bursting with agricultural gems, from herb farms and buzzing farmers markets to lavender fields and elegant wineries. Whether you’re a resident or simply passing through and want to get a closer look at what makes this state so wonderful, check out some of these top Washington agritourism experiences. We’ve culled the list down to our favorite seven to get you started.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Herbfarm Restaurant (@theherbfarmrestaurant)

1. The Herbfarm

You can’t help but fall in love with the Pacific Northwest when you arrive at The Herbfarm . This stunning property is designed and decorated with rich, global art and architecture to transport you around the world as you enjoy one of the finest celebrations of food and wine in the country. With a nine-course dinner, expertly paired with five to six different wines, and single seating each night, this is a fantastic experience for travelers who enjoy the finer things in life.

See more:  What’s In Season? Washington Produce Calendar

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2. Olympia Farmers Market

The Olympia Farmers Market is an impressive example of Washington agritourism. From fresh baked breads and pastries to grass-fed meat, heirloom vegetables and fine wine, you can find virtually anything and everything you need here to stock your kitchen. There are more than 60 vendors that regularly attend this weekly market, and you can easily spend an entire day exploring and savoring various treats and goodies to the sound of live music.

3. Fruitful Farm & Nursery

If you’re on vacation, you probably aren’t planning to bring home a trunk full of flowers and vegetables. But that shouldn’t stop you from stopping to smell the roses at Fruitful Farm & Nursery . This beautiful family-owned nursery and fruit stand is tucked away in the foothills of the Stillaguamish Valley and boasts a vibrant array of hanging flower baskets, ornamental shrubs and organically grown vegetable plants. Even if you aren’t looking to make a purchase, you can stop by to admire the sights and smells of this gorgeous nursery in its scenic countryside setting.

4. Pelindaba Lavender

San Juan Island may be known for whale watching, but it is also home to fields of fragrant lavender . The team at Pelindaba Lavender cultivate acres and acres of this beloved flower to create more than 200 different kinds of botanical, therapeutic and  household products. They even distill essential oils on the property. Whether you want to explore the more than 50 varieties of lavender in the demonstration garden, take home lavender clippings from the nursery, tour the distillery or simply wander through the fields soaking it all in, this is a must for your Washington agritourism bucket list.

See more:  Washington’s Top 10 Ag Products

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5. Chelsea Farms

Did you know Washington produces more oysters than any other state in the country? You could always choose to celebrate this unique agricultural bounty by ordering a plate at dinner, but narrowing down your options of where to go could be tough. That’s where Chelsea Farms comes in. You can find their products in various oyster bars in cities like Seattle and Tacoma. Or you could hop over to their Oyster Bar at 222 Market for a casual lunch in a bright and vibrant environment that celebrates everything there is to love about seafood.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery (@chateaustemichelle)

6. Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery

Washington is dotted with wineries, but if you had to narrow it down to one of the best destinations in the state, you have to visit Chateau Ste. Michelle . This breathtaking property is known as the founding winery in the state, and they have produced an impressive number of award-winning wines. You can easily spend an afternoon at the chateau, savoring their wine tasting experience, exploring their wine shop, or taking a tour to discover all the behind-the-scenes secrets to how they make some of the best wine in the Columbia Valley.

See more:  7 Wonderful Washington Food Festivals

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bellewood Farm & Distillery (@bellewoodfarms)

7. Bellewood Farms

Have you ever visited a combination farmstead and distillery? If you’ve not crossed that item off your bucket list, we’ve got good news for you. Bellewood Farms in Lynden is the ideal destination for those who want a touch of rural charm mingled with the perks of an on-site craft distillery. Bellewood Farms boasts the state’s first genuine farm-to-glass distillery. They craft award-winning vodka, gin and brandy using top-notch fruit grown on their own property. You can’t get much more local than that.

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Farm Life

Farming creates a good life, and so we welcome our guests with open arms..

We share with you and your loved ones the joys and challenges of life on the farm. Some might say it’s a simple life but we can assure you not a dull day goes by.

Farm life is full of life. Among other friendly farm animals, we milk 115 mature cows on our farm plus the youngstock. They’re known as Robeth Holsteins and they’re our award-winning herd, making us very proud owners. Our barn doors are always open to guests so please, come on in and explore. Adults and kids alike can milk the cows, bottle-feed newborn calves and cuddle with kittens.

Farm life revolves around food. Every day begins and ends with farm-fresh food – a bountiful country breakfast and a wholesome, homemade sit-down meal – both hard earned and well deserved.

Farm Fun

On our farm, fun is always in abundance and every day is a new adventure . no matter the season, there’s plenty to do and see., come experience it for yourself book a stay with us at the inn or book a farm tour with us for a day visit..

• Try your hand at milking cows.
• Bottle-feed baby calves.
• Get your feet (and hair) wet with a swim.
• Switch gears and go mountain biking.
• Fly fish and reel in a trout or salmon.
• Hike our winding, endless trails.
• Grab one of our baskets and go berry picking.
• Wander around the Wildflower fields.
• Strap on some snowshoes and walk on white.
• Go on a cross-country skiing excursion.
• Cuddle with our cute country kittens.
• Feed our hungry herd, the Holsteins.
• Pick fresh vegetables (and eat ’em).
• Gaze at the stars.

Book a Farm Tour

Plan a day visit and book a tour of the farm..

Our tours are scheduled to coincide with daily chores to allow guests the opportunity to experience daily farm life. Guests will be able to watch the cow milking process and even try their hand at milking! Asia’s tour starts at 9 am and goes for 2 hours. We simply love to share our love of farming and our animals with others and hope you’ll join us. Please book her tour directly online through Airbnb Experience. All proceeds from our Farm Tours go directly to our nonprofit organization, Liberty Hill Center for Agricultural Education.

Book Your Stay

Words we live by, as farmers ..

These beliefs guide us day in and day out, from sunup to sundown. If you have a moment, please read. Who knows? Maybe they’ll inspire you to go out and live off the land like we do.

I believe a man’s greatest possession is his dignity, and that no calling bestows this more abundantly than farming.

I believe hard work and honest sweat are the building blocks of a person’s character.

I believe that farming, despite its hardships and disappointments, is the most honest and honorable way a man can spend his days on this earth.

I believe farming nurtures the close family ties that make life rich in ways money can’t buy.

I believe my children are learning values that will last a lifetime and can be learned in no other way.

I believe farming provides education for life and that no other occupation teaches so much about birth, growth, and maturity, in such a variety of ways.

I believe many of the best things in life are indeed free: the splendor of a sunrise, the rapture of wide-open spaces, the exhilarating sight of your land greening each spring.

I believe true happiness comes from watching your crops ripen in the field, your children grow tall in the sun, your whole family feel the pride that springs from their shared experience.

I believe that by my toil, I am giving more to the world than I am taking from it, an honor that does not come to all men.

I believe my life will be measured ultimately by what I have done for my fellowman, and by this standard I fear no judgment.

I believe when a man grows old and sums up his days, he should be able to stand tall and feel pride in the life he’s lived.

I believe in farming because it makes all this possible.

Cabot Creamery Co-op

Liberty Hill Farm is one of the voices representing the family farm owners of Cabot Creamery Co-operative. We take great pride in spreading the word about the great Cabot products to whoever will listen. Fortunately for us, the products speak for themselves. Cabot Cheddar Cheese has won every major award for taste and our Cabot Butter is a blue ribbon winner too.

Liberty Hill and Cabot Highlights Liberty Hill Farm participates in Cabot’s Open Farm Events held over the years and our story is available on Cabot’s website, among the online virtual farm tours . Beth and our cow, Larue, were featured in a Cabot Creamery Co-operative commercial that aired on TV.  View the Hug a Farmer video here. In December 2013 Beth went with other Cabot Farmers on the Cabot Creamery Co-operative Gratitude tour in New York City to tout the Cabot goods—singing their praises from the rooftops!

The One & Only Robeth Holstein Herd  Robeth —a combination of our first two names—is the coined prefix for our registered herd. Robeth Holsteins are known for their excellent genetics and have been honored with the Progressive Breeder Registry Award from the Holstein Association for the past 30 years. While the numbers vary, we generally have 320 head of animals all together: cows, calves and heifers, with 120 of those being the milking cows.

Good Cow Genes When we bought the farm from John Hunt, a premier dairy breeder in the 1920s and ’30s, he had a cow named Pearl—a direct descendent of the famous Maryland dairy herd named Dunloggin. Most of our current herd descends from Pearl. Our cows’ lineage has been traced back to the 1880s when they were imported from Holstein Friesland, an area between Germany and the Netherlands.

Customized Tours | Seattle's Fun Tour Guide

• Private Tours
• Frequently Asked Questions
• 888.554.8687

‘Faithful Hands’ Farm Tour

Come and engage your senses in our interactive farm tour and learn what we do to run our farm. Visit the gardens and greenhouse and see what we grow. Our hope is that you will leave feeling inspired, encouraged and empowered to try it yourselves.

DURATION: 1.5 Hours PRICE:  $25 Adult, $15 Child MORE INFORMATION Book Now

Description

Join us in a 90-minute walking tour of a small working farm on the way to Mt. Rainier and close to Northwest Trek. Faithful Hands Farm is on the site of old Faith Dairy (a major milk producing farm in Tacoma's history) 116 acres in size with an unbelievable view of Mt. Rainier. While the farm is relatively large the majority of the action is on only 5 acres. Many things go into running a homestead farm that will be educational and interesting to adults and children alike.  Activities visitors experience will be based on animals raised for food and to sell to help the farm go. We also grow various amounts of fruits, berries, vegetables and flowers. Depending on the time of year you may see some vegetable starts in our greenhouse that we grow from seed as well as flowers and herbs. Every year we are adding and improving on what we have already begun. The following are the types of livestock that are raised on the property: Cows, Sheep, Goats, Alpacas, pigs, Livestock Guardian Dogs, Bees, Turkeys, Ducks, Geese, and Chickens.  Although they are not pets, they are well loved and cared for. On the tour you will interact with the smaller animals, feed and pet them as well as learning what their role is on the farm. The tour guide is an educator with the Washington State Fair Traveling Farm and has been farming and gardening for many years.

Expect to go from pasture to pasture with the farmer/guide as they explain the care and purpose of the animals you come across, feel free to ask questions.  Your experience on the farm will vary depending on the month you come as we are a working farm. Things you could experience include but are not limited to; vegetable and cutting flower gardens, babies being born, milking goats, egg collecting, feeding animals, and sampling crops, and so much more. Photo opportunities throughout the tour!  Come learn where your food comes from and enjoy the view!

Availability

Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Only

10:00 A.M. from March 1st until October 30th

Things to know before you go

• You will need to drive to the farm: Graham, WA 98338.
• What’s Included: 90 min walking tour of the farm, bottled water or soft drinks, you can bring a sack lunch for a pick nick after the tour!
• What’s Excluded: Meals are not provided; be sure to bring a sack lunch.  Gratuity is appreciated and graciously accepted.
• What to Wear:   Its a farm so wear shoes, preferably boots, that can get dirty- animals do not use flushable toilets!!
• Additional Information: Tours start at 10am and/or 1pm
• Cancellation policy: In order to receive a refund reservation must be cancelled by guest at least 1 day prior to your tour date.

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University of Washington Botanic Gardens

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• UW Farm Tours

Discover the UW Student Farm programs, growing sites and student-built infrastructure and LEED platinum buildings through one of our guided tours. Add on a volunteer work party or tour experience for your meeting or event..

We have three farm sites:

Mercer Court Planned Urban Farm – west campus

Production Farm at the Center for Urban Horticulture – east campus

Rooftop Culinary Garden – north campus

To schedule your group:

Please contact [email protected] for academic related, UW courses, labs and field trips.

Please contact [email protected] for non-UW field trip requests, volunteer work parties, and corporate visits.

We ask that you contact us at least two weeks in advance of when you would like to visit the farm.

Though all our volunteer activities are outside, group size is limited to 30 individuals total.

Schedule a Tour

The farm does offer tours to the public and school groups.  Our guided tours provide a detailed walk through the farm to view over 80 different varieties of vegetables, herbs, fruit, grains, and flowers. The farm specializes in small scale sustainable cropping systems, high tunnel production, local marketing, weed control, and research. Typically, tours will take about 45 minutes and include plenty of time for questions. Each participant will receive a complimentary seed packet.

Organic Farm Tour (pdf) ◦ $45 minimum fee for up to 15 people ◦ $3 for each additional person Special Rate for school groups (K-12): $45 for up to 25 students; $1 for each additional student *The farm also offers two free events each year that are open to the public – The Annual Farm Field Day on the last Thursday in July and the Fall Harvest Celebration on the first Saturday in October.

Have you ever fed a bison?

Seasonal tours available

What an awesome treat! I highly recommend this tour for kids of all ages! I had a blast feeding the bison! It was so great to hear the story of how this all came about, as well.

google review

Awesome farm with great tours! The owners shared their story while we were seated on the benches made out of hay, let us feel the different types of bison fur and made us fall in love with these free spirited animals. At the end of the tour we got to feed some treats to the giants and it was a really cool experience!

I loved hearing about how the farm came to be. The gift shop has lots of cute bison items. Of course, the main attraction is getting to feed the bison treats! These are still wild bison, so it is done through the fence, but it was a wonderful experience!

​ Had a really good time with my family. You get a little bit of history on the bison and then get to feed them. My boys loved getting to see them up close. I’d have to say that the big bull “Dude” was my favorite. We will definitely be back at some point.

We Are Excited to See You This Summer

We offer tours on our small farm from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.  Come listen to our story, learn about bison, and get a chance to feed a bison a treat. 

Book your tour now!

Feed the Flock

Come meet Screech & Holla and the rest of the flock.  They love their treats! 

See the New Calves

Get a chance to see the new calves.  We typically have our first calf just in time for tour season!

Feed the Bison

Our bison love tour season!  They are more than happy to take treats from your hand and let you sneak a scritch on their nose.

Follow Us @winturbisonfarm

Wildlife Park in Arlington, WA

Kangaroo Sales

Wallaby Sales

Trusted company, as a local company, proudly serving arlington, washington and surrounding areas, the outback kangaroo farm is committed to providing excellent services and maintaining our reputation in the area.  , trusted services, when you visit the outback kangaroo farm, you'll be visiting a unique wildlife park that all ages can enjoy. our furry friends can't wait to meet you, our team meets the highest standards in experience and skills. we work hard to ensure our staff are duly trained and remain up to date in the latest trends in the industry.  , business hours, contact info.

Leavenworth Reindeer Farm

Conservation. education. imagination., family-run reindeer farm in leavenworth, washington, bucket list adventure awaits at leavenworth reindeer farm.

Welcome to our family-run reindeer farm, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, and located just one mile from the Bavarian Village of Leavenworth. Our hands-on, educational tours are fun for the whole family and are guaranteed to provide memories to last a lifetime.

Guests will have an opportunity to hand-feed, interact with and marvel at this protected-species. Gather ’round a crackling campfire and learn about what makes reindeer one of the most highly-accessorized creatures on our planet. Hold shed antlers, climb into Santa’s sleigh and enjoy meeting Sven and the rest of the herd. We are building the West Coast’s largest geodesic projection dome, which will feature Northern Lights shows (coming Early 2024). Book your unforgettable Reindeer Encounter online today!

Summer Nights: Every Friday and Saturday all summer long!

Open year-round, advanced reservations required. book online today.

• most popular!
• Calendar November - December

“Celebrate the Season” Reindeer Farm Experience

Our most popular experience by far! Learn about Reindeer, hold massive shed antlers, then go INSIDE the reindeer enclosure for an up close and personal experience with the whole herd. Feed reindeer from the palm of your hand, feel their furry noses. Meet Santa in our historic barn.

• Calendar April – October , December 28 – February 18
• Users All ages

Reindeer Farm Experience

Spring, Summer & Fall is a wonderful time to visit the farm. Enjoy lower crowd sizes and the unique chance to feed reindeer fresh willow from the branch, their favorite treat! Baby reindeer are typically born April – June.

• Calendar Every Saturday in July

Christmas in July! Meet Santa + The Baby Reindeer

Santa is on summer vacation…in Leavenworth! Our first annual “Christmas in July” event will include a special photo opportunity with Santa Claus in his vacation clothes. Book this special event online!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Get unFrozen in Leavenworth!

PRICE: Starting at $32 WHEN: Memorial Day weekend; Saturday May 25th, 2024

Each guest will get a chance to visit and take a photo with Elsa & Anna. Feel free to come in your favorite costume! Also, included with your admission, is our traditional Reindeer Farm tour, which consists of an educational presentation and a visit with our reindeer herd inside their enclosure. Reindeer food is provided to each guest.

We have welcomed over half a million visitors to our small farm. Hear what they have to say.

We had a family group of 19, ranging in age from 2-80. Many were skeptical, but this turned out to be a highlight of our trip. The place is very well run, and the staff extremely friendly and helpful. A couple of the members of our group were not able to walk down the rather steep hill to the entrance. They quickly sent up a cart to bring them down. The presentation was informative, and the visit with the reindeer in their pen was really fun. We got to feed reindeer by hand, carefully let them, and observe them up close. The whole place had a nice, friendly vibe. I recommend it to anyone traveling through the area interested in a unique experience.

Delightful and educational visit for our group of seven aged 3-70. This place is family owned, operated and well cared for. We were able to interact with a herd of reindeer safely for both us and the reindeer. The grounds were lovely and everyone was knowledgeable and friendly. We would love to visit again.

This was the highlight of our trip! While very family friendly, this is an experience suitable for all ages/group sizes. The family running the farm is so friendly and very knowledgeable about their animals. The reindeer are beautiful and getting to be in the same space as them is just wonderful. Lots of other animals too, and a cute gift shop. We went in July and they had young babies and the adults in full velvet. It was a wonderful place and we plan to go back our next trip to Leavenworth!

We really enjoyed our visit to the farm. Everyone was super friends and very informative. It was really cool to see all the reindeer and the babies. The gift shop had lots to offer. You also get to feed the chickens, turkey and bunnies. An experience you have to do!

This is an experience you have to do! The property was absolutely beautiful when we visited. They give you some information in the beginning about the reindeer, there's hot chocolate, apple cider, photos with Santa, a cute shop, and a picture perfect scenery. Feeding the reindeer was something my 10 year old son enjoyed. We hope to go back and visit during another season.

My daughter and I visited for our first time during Memorial Day weekend to see the new babies at the farm. It was really cool, and definitely worth the visit. The chickens and turkeys were roaming in the yard and my daughter loved feeding them and petting the cats while we waited for our tour. We learned a lot about reindeer and will plan to return.

Our first trip to Leavenworth was ended with a fun day Reindeer. My favorite part about this day was spending time with my family. Watching my 2 year old niece interact with the chickens and reindeer. Watching my granddaughter experience the excitement of feeding reindeer and petting her favorite Elsa!

This was a delightful experience for our group and for the week! The hosts were exceptional with the presentation and preparation for the animal encounter. The animals were charming and friendly! Truly a highlight of our vacation- thank you for sharing your passion and desire to save these fascinating creatures- we will carry the torch forward!

We are a proud partner of the Caribou Conservation Alliance

Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is committed to the conservation and recovery of Caribou through our partnership with the Caribou Conservation Alliance. If you’d like to join us in supporting this special cause, please consider purchasing a $5 raffle ticket. Your raffle ticket will enter you to win a set of naturally shed reindeer antlers. Our next raffle winner will be announced on June 6, 2024 – World Caribou Day!

We are passionate about reindeer conservation and education. Learn more about our popular Adopt A Reindeer program by clicking on the SHOP link . 

Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is one of the few places in the world that provides guests the opportunity to go INSIDE a reindeer enclosure, surrounded by the herd. This is truly an experience for your bucket list!

Keep an eye out for the orange flags at each farm stating Official Farm of The Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms .

October 5th & 6th, 2024, 10am to 4pm

Tons of kids activities! Bring your whole family!

26th Annual SKAGIT VALLEY FESTIVAL OF FAMILY FARMS Oct. 5th & 6th, 2024

Acres of Fun for Everyone

Just one hour north of Seattle & south of Vancouver, B.C.

Skagit Valley Farm Tours

The family farms of skagit valley welcome and open their barns and lifestyles to you and your family for this one-of-a-kind event ..

On this weekend, you can have a hands-on-experience learning what it takes to run a farm, from growing crops to feeding animals.

It is an opportunity to talk to your farmers and follow your food from the fields to the table. Use the farm map to enjoy a self guided scenic tour through Skagit County and plan your stops to visit each participating family farm!

Our participating farms offer fun-filled festival activities for everyone including:

• Educational Exhibits
• Farm Tours, Harvest Markets
• Gardening Demonstrations
• Free Samples
• Kids Activities
• Corn and Hay Mazes
• Animal Exhibits
• Pumpkin Patches
• Scenic Tours and More

Don’t forget to fill out a survey at each farm you can enter to win our Festival Basket filled with over $200.00 worth of goodies from the farms.

Here are our 2023 Host Farms

Our farmers are dedicated to producing high quality products, as well as sustaining our environment and they look forward to sharing their knowledge and products with you. Mark your calendar and plan to join us for our 26th annual festival on Oct. 5th & 6th, 2024!

• Double O Ranch
• Eagle Haven Winery
• Gordon Skagit Farms
• RoozenGaarde
• Samish River Dairy
• Schuh Farms
• South Fork Farms
• Taylor Shellfish

View All Participating Farms View Farm Map

Make a Donation

Please consider donating to the Festival of Family farms to help our educational forces come back in full swing for the 2022 season. Please Donate now and mark your calendars for Oct. 1 & 2 2022, Thank you!

• Become a Festival VIP!

The VIP passes give you access to exclusive VIP farm activities and goodies. To purchase a VIP package please visit our donate now button, print your receipt and bring to RoozenGaarde Farms or Eagle Haven Winery to get your bag too.

What Our Festival Visitors Have to Say...

Read All Testimonials

• Preserve Farmland
• Wondering What to Expect?
• Dining & Lodging
• Photo Gallery

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Pioneer Farm Tour

Project description, tour details, days & hours, an hour and a half tour of pioneer farm museum.

Your tour includes visiting two homestead cabins built in the 1880’s and learn about the families who built and lived in them. Do the chores that pioneer children would have done in our log activity cabin such as: grinding grains, churning cream, scrubbing laundry, and carding wool. You may dress up like pioneers, get you hair curled with a old curling iron and shave with a dulled straight razor.

Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy before or after your tour! Register at the Trading Post (gift shop) before the tour

Helping with the barn chores includes: gathering eggs, milk the cow (or goat, which ever is available), pet and visit all the animals in the barn. You may even try a jump into the hay pile, feet first please.

Work in the blacksmith shop, heat up a horseshoe in the forge, pound or bend the shoe.

Move on to the wood shop and pound nails, use a bit and brace to drill, spud bark from a log, saw some wood with a buck saw, and shape wood with a draw knife.

Visit our replica Ohop Lutheran Mission schoolhouse. Rules and punishments for both students and teachers are hanging on the wall inside.

SPRING : Saturday-Sunday; March 15-Fathers Day Pioneer Farm Tour : 11:15-4pm

SUMMER:  DAILY; Fathers Day-Labor Day Weekend Pioneer Farm Tour: daily 11:15-4pm Native American Seasons Tour: Friday, Saturday, Sunday @ 1pm & 2:30pm

FALL:  Saturday & Sunday; 11:15-4pm, Day after Labor Day-Day before Thanksgiving

WINTER:  CLOSED THANKSGIVING THROUGH MARCH 14

HOLIDAY CLOSURES: CLOSED EASTER SUNDAY & INDEPENDENCE DAY

FAMILY TOUR START TIMES:

• 11:15 | 11:30 | 12:00 | 12:45 | 1:00 | 1:30 | 2:15 | 2:30 | 3:00 | 3:45 | 4:00

Note : Please wear good closed toe shoes when visiting our farm

ADMISSION PRICES FOR FAMILY TOURS: No reservation needed

Pioneer farm tour:.

• Children(3-18) or Seniors(61+) $12.00
• Adults(19-60) $14.00

**Discount of $1.00 per person if you choose to do both tours the same day

We appreciate hearing from you..

If you need more information about our programs or to make a reservation, please fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Contact Info

7716 Ohop Valley Road E., Eatonville, WA. 98328

Phone: +1 360-832-6300

Email: Send a message

Web: Pioneer Farm Museum

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VIRTUAL FARM TOUR

Learn what it takes to get milk from the farm to your table on real Washington dairy farms. It takes serious dedication to keep cows healthy and comfortable while preserving the planet—see everything that goes into producing dairy in Washington’s own backyard.

Educators, you can use this lesson plan as a virtual field trip for your middle school classroom, too!

View Lesson Plan

Farm Tour Credits

This farm tour is brought to you by the Dairy Farmers of Washington with the participation of:

Special thanks to:

Sawdust Hill Alpaca Farm

Alpaca tours, events & store — llamas too.

23 Breathtaking Lavender Farms & Fields in Washington State

Washington State is home to some of the country’s most beautiful lavender farms and fields. These farms offer visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature while learning about the history and cultivation of this fragrant plant. From Sequim to San Juan Islands, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the lavender fields and shops of Washington State.

Visitors to Washington State’s lavender farms can expect to be surrounded by fields of purple blooms and the sweet scent of lavender in the air. Many of these farms offer tours, workshops, and other activities that allow visitors to learn about the history and cultivation of lavender and the many uses of this versatile plant. In addition to exploring the fields, visitors can also shop for lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, and other handmade goods.

Whether you’re a lavender enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful and relaxing day trip, Washington State’s lavender farms and fields are a must-visit destination. From the stunning beauty of the Olympic Peninsula to the charming farms of Mount Vernon, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So pack a picnic, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the beauty and fragrance of Washington State’s lavender farms and fields.

Table of Contents

Overview of lavender farms in washington state.

Washington State is home to some of the most beautiful lavender farms in North America. The region’s unique climate and soil allow for the cultivation of a wide variety of lavender species, making it a prime destination for lavender enthusiasts. With over 30 lavender farms located throughout the state, visitors have plenty of options to choose from.

Lavender farms in Washington State offer a range of activities and experiences, from u-pick lavender fields to guided tours, workshops, and special events. Many farms also offer on-site accommodations, such as bed and breakfasts or vacation rentals, making it easy to plan a relaxing lavender-themed getaway.

The most popular time to visit lavender farms in Washington State is during the summer months, when the fields are in full bloom. However, some farms are open year-round and offer activities such as distilling workshops or holiday-themed events.

Some of the most well-known lavender farms in Washington State include:

• Wilderbee Farm : This certified organic farm in Port Townsend offers u-pick lavender and cut flowers, as well as blueberries, pumpkins, and handcrafted mead. Visitors can also take a tour of the farm’s beehives and learn about the process of making honey.
• Jardin du Soleil : This family-owned farm in Sequim offers a range of lavender products, from essential oils to culinary lavender. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fields and distillery, attend workshops and classes, and shop for lavender-themed gifts and souvenirs.

Whether you’re a lavender enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, Washington State’s lavender farms offer something for everyone. With their stunning fields, unique products, and welcoming hospitality, these farms are a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the region.

23 Beautiful Lavender Farms & Fields in Washington State

Washington State is home to many beautiful lavender farms and fields that attract visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the most famous lavender farms in the state.

Jardin Du Soleil

Website | 3932 Sequim Dungeness Way, Sequim, WA 98383

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jardin du soleil (@jardindusoleillavender)

Jardin du Soleil is a certified organic lavender farm located on the Olympic Peninsula, four miles north of Sequim, Washington. The farm is nestled in the rainshadow of Washington State’s Olympic Mountains and is surrounded by hundreds of acres of protected wildlife. The land was part of a dairy farm established in the 1880s and was planted with lavender in 1999. Victorian gardens, ponds, fruit trees, and lavender fields create a beautiful landscape with the Strait of Juan de Fuca beyond. The farm spans over 10 acres, with thousands of lavender plants that create a wonderfully fragrant vista.

The farm uses state-of-the-art lavender oil distillation to produce high-quality, certified organic lavender essential oil. This oil is used to create unique and beautiful lavender products for the bath and body, home, and garden. The farm offers lavender candles, lavender sachets, bulk dried lavender, and lavender soap, among other products. Jardin du Soleil Lavender Farm invites visitors to experience a delightful sensory journey and to enjoy the beauty and benefits of lavender.

Purple Haze Organic Lavender Farm

Website | 180 Bell Bottom Rd, Sequim, WA 98382

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Purple Haze Lavender Farm (@purplehazelavender)

Purple Haze Lavender is a 7-acre farm located in the serene Sequim-Dungeness Valley of the northern Olympic Peninsula. The farm is dedicated to cultivating the wonderful and versatile herb and is proud to offer visitors a unique experience that celebrates the beauty and benefits of lavender, alongside over 25 other growers in the valley. The farm features a charming gift shop, a summer ice cream and beverage stand, as well as some bees and chickens.

Visitors can enjoy U-pick lavender from mid-June through August, along with all of their natural culinary and body care lines. The ice cream stand, open from mid-June through Labor Day, offers several flavors of lavender ice cream, as well as some great lavender-inspired beverages. The Vacation Rental Farmhouse is also available year-round for those who wish to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the lavender fields.

The indigenous microclimate of Sequim provides the perfect setting for a lavender farm. The low rainfall, mild winters, and broad valley with open exposure make it an ideal place for lavender to thrive. Jose and his crew have created a truly picturesque landscape, comprised of multi-colored rows of lavender and helichrysum. The fields are softly framed by mature weeping willows and many other edible, interesting, and otherwise delightful ornamental trees, shrubs, herbs, plants, and flowers, making it a truly tranquil and beautiful location.

If you want a better idea of what this place looks like before going, check out their virtual lavender farm tour .

Washington Lavender Farm

Website | 939 Finn Hall Road, Port Angeles, WA 98362

View this post on Instagram A post shared by George Washington Inn (@washingtoninn)

The Inn and Washington Lavender Farm are situated in the picturesque Sequim-Dungeness Valley of Washington State. Known for its abundant sunshine, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall compared to the rest of the state, the area is the perfect climate for growing Sequim lavender. In fact, it is often referred to as America’s Provence. The lavender was planted on the property in the fall of 2008, shortly after the Inn opened.

In 2011, the Washington Lavender Farm was opened to the public, offering visitors access to the lavender fields from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Overnight guests enjoyed the beauty and fragrance of lavender throughout the summer. Culinary lavender was incorporated into the breakfast preparation, and many of the bath and body products made their way into the guest rooms.

Wilderbee Farm

Website | 223 Cook Ave, Port Townsend, WA 98368

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wilderbee Farm & Mead Werks (@wilderbeefarm)

Wilderbee is a family-owned farm that can be found in a tranquil and rural community situated to the west of Port Townsend. It is a perfect location to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The farm grows certified organic lavender, flowers, and pumpkins for u-pick, pomme fruit for their meads, and raises a conservation flock of rare, British Soay sheep for wool.

During the summer, they hand-harvest and distill their lavender for essential oil using a copper distiller to capture the sweetest floral notes. The farm store offers a wide range of products, including essential oils, hydrosols, lotions, soaps, and balms, as well as raw honey, bottles of mead, and unique woodcrafts made by the father.

Additionally, the farm has a fully-equipped ceramics studio available for adult use in the spring and summer. On weekends, visitors can relax and enjoy the award-winning handcrafted meads at the Mead Werks tasting room and garden, which provides a stunning view of the farm. Wilderbee specializes in traditional and barrel-aged meads, as well as seasonal batches made with organic farm-grown ingredients.

The twelve-acre property is home to honeybees, native pollinators, and a diverse ecology of woodland and wetland areas that attract an abundance of wildlife and birds. Visitors are welcome to explore the trails that meander through this nature sanctuary during open hours.

Rain Shadow Lavender Farm

Website | 1410 Kitchen-Dick Rd, Sequim, WA 98382

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rain Shadow Lavender Farm (@rainshadowlavenderfarm)

Nestled under the stunning backdrop of the Olympic Mountains, this distinctive farm boasts a magnificent lavender circle, a farm store, LuLu’s Refreshments, a fire pit, a pergola, a water feature, private events, and professional photography opportunities amidst fields of lavender. The farm store offers a selection of the finest natural oils, lotions, and balms that have been exclusively made for Rain Shadow Lavender Farm. Additionally, the farm store showcases local artisans who bring the Pacific Northwest to life with their vibrant colors and unique products.

Cedarbrook Lavender

Website | 120 W Washington St, Sequim, WA 98382

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sequim Lavender Experience (@sequimlavenderexperience)

Cedarbrook Lavender is located in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains and offers a variety of lavender products, including essential oils, lotions, and soaps. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic in the lavender fields or take a guided tour of the farm.

Fleurish Lavender of Lost Mountain

Website | 1541 Taylor Cutoff Rd, Sequim, WA 98382

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fleurish Lavender (@fleurishlavenderoflostmountain)

Fleurish Lavender of Lost Mountain is located in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains and offers over 16 different varieties of lavender. Visitors can shop for lavender products at their gift shop or enjoy a lavender-inspired meal at their on-site cafe.

Evening Light Lavender

Website | 5552 S Wallbridge Rd, Deer Park, WA 99006

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Evening Light Lavender (@eveninglightlavender)

Evening Light Lavender is located in Selah Ridge and offers a wide variety of lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, and lotions. Visitors can also take a tour of the farm or enjoy a picnic in the lavender fields.

These lavender farms are just a few of the many beautiful lavender farms in Washington State. Visitors can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of the lavender fields, shop for lavender products, or take a tour of the farm.

Selah Ridge Lavender

Website | 330 Rankin Rd, Selah, WA 98942

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Selah Ridge Lavender Farm (@selahridgelavenderfarm)

Located in the beautiful Yakima Valley of Washington, Selah Ridge Lavender Farm is a family-owned farm that has been cultivating lavender plants for over two decades. The farm grows several different varieties of lavender and uses them to produce their own quality essential oil, which is used in their skin care line. They also use some of the finest ingredients and exotic oils from around the world.

The farm is located at 330 Rankin Road and is open Fridays and Saturdays in July and other days by appointment. Visitors can follow the farm on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on events and other updates. During late June, visitors can participate in U-pick lavender, where they can pick their own lavender flowers and take them home.

The rows of lavender fields make for a picturesque view, with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. The farm’s location in the rain shadow of the Olympic Peninsula allows for optimal growing conditions for lavender and other wildflowers.

In addition to lavender products, Selah Ridge Lavender Farm also offers workshops and demonstrations on how to use and care for lavender plants. Visitors can also enjoy food and beverages while taking in the peaceful surroundings. The farm also has an online store where visitors can purchase products and view photos of the farm.

Selah Ridge Lavender Farm has won several awards for their beautiful lavender plants and essential oils. It is a must-visit location for anyone interested in lavender or looking for a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the views.

The Lavender Connection

Website | 1141 Cays Rd, Sequim, WA 98382

The Lavender Connection is a family-owned and operated lavender farm located on the Sequim Lavender Trail in Washington State. Founded in 2004 by the Olson family, the farm boasts more than 3,000 lavender plants of 40 different varieties.

Visitors are welcome to the farm, which is approximately 2 hours from Seattle, and there is free admission. The Lavender Connection is great for families, couples, and individuals of all backgrounds. Visitors can view over 50 varieties of lavender, most of which are available for U-Cut. The lavender varieties range from light pink to dark purple.

At the farm, visitors can learn how lavender essential oil is made and compare the unique scent profile of 25 different varieties. The Lavender Connection also offers handcrafted lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, and lotions.

The Lavender Connection is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the lavender fields. Visitors can also attend the Sequim Lavender Weekend, which takes place every July. During this weekend, visitors can attend concerts, listen to live music, and enjoy lavender-themed food and drinks.

In addition to the Sequim Lavender Weekend, the Lavender Connection also hosts barn dances and jazz concerts throughout the year. The farm also offers a newsletter to keep visitors up-to-date on the latest events and products.

Overall, the Lavender Connection is a must-visit for anyone who loves lavender. With its beautiful fields, handcrafted products, and variety of events, it is no wonder that Sequim is known as the Lavender Capital of North America.

Trinity Gardens Lavender

Website | 20530 Rd 5 SW, Quincy, WA 98848

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Trinity Gardens Lavender Farm (@trinitygardenslavenderfarm)

Trinity Gardens Lavender Farm is a family-owned and operated lavender farm located in Quincy, Washington. The farm is conveniently located off I-90 near the town of George, WA. The Putnam family, who owns and operates the farm, also grows apples, cherries, produce, and various flowers.

The farm is open to visitors from April to September and offers walking tours of the lavender fields and beautiful sitting areas where visitors can enjoy the view of the Columbia Basin. Trinity Gardens Lavender Farm is a popular destination for lavender enthusiasts and tourists who want to experience the beauty and fragrance of lavender fields.

Trinity Gardens Lavender Farm offers a wide variety of lavender products, including essential oils, candles, dried lavender, and lavender ice cream. The farm also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase handcrafted lavender products and other souvenirs.

The farm is also a popular wedding venue and vacation home rental. The peaceful and serene surroundings make Trinity Gardens Lavender Farm an ideal place for weddings and other special events. The farm has a large barn that can accommodate up to 200 guests and offers breathtaking views of the lavender fields and the surrounding area.

Trinity Gardens Lavender Farm is a member of the Sequim Lavender Trail and participates in the Sequim Lavender Weekend, which is held in July every year. The farm also hosts concerts, barn dances, and other events throughout the year.

In conclusion, Trinity Gardens Lavender Farm is a beautiful and peaceful place where visitors can relax and enjoy the beauty and fragrance of lavender fields. The farm offers a wide variety of lavender products and is a popular wedding venue and vacation home rental. Visitors can also participate in various events and activities hosted by the farm throughout the year.

B&B Family Farm

Website | 5883 Old Olympic Hwy, Sequim, WA 98382

B&B Family Farm is a charming lavender farm located in Sequim, Washington. The farm is owned and operated by Bruce and Bonnie, who have been cultivating lavender since 2013. With 12 acres of land and over 14,000 lavender plants, B&B Family Farm is the largest lavender farm in Sequim.

Visitors to B&B Family Farm can enjoy free farm tours from May to September to learn about the farm’s history and the process of growing and harvesting lavender. The farm also has a store where visitors can purchase artisan lavender products made from naturally grown lavender fresh from the farm.

B&B Family Farm has received high praise from customers, with an average rating of 4.9 stars out of 5 on their customer reviews. Visitors appreciate the farm’s authentic charm, beautiful scenery, and friendly owners.

Overall, B&B Family Farm is a must-visit destination for lavender lovers in Washington. With its rich history, beautiful lavender fields, and high-quality products, it is sure to provide a delightful and memorable experience for visitors.

Victor’s Lavender

Website | 3743 Old Olympic Hwy, Port Angeles, WA 98362

Victor’s Lavender is a working lavender farm located in sunny Sequim, Washington. The farm is known worldwide because Victor Gonzalez, the farmer, supplies other farms and teaches them how to grow lavender. Victor’s Lavender is the lead supplier of Sequim Lavender plants, and one of the largest producers of lavender in North America, with over one million plants sold.

The farm offers a unique lavender experience for visitors. They can learn about the many different Lavandula plants grown at the farm and purchase a wide variety of lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, lotions, and more. Victor’s Lavender also hosts an annual Lavender Festival, which takes place in July and is always free to attend.

Visitors to Victor’s Lavender can explore more than 100 varieties of lavender, all designed by Victor himself. The farm offers tours, workshops, and classes on lavender cultivation and uses. Victor’s Lavender is a trusted resource for lavender growers throughout the world who rely on Victor’s advice and plants for successful lavender gardens and farms.

In conclusion, Victor’s Lavender is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in lavender. With its vast selection of plants, products, and educational opportunities, visitors are sure to have a unique and memorable experience.

Pelindaba Lavender Farm

Website | 45 Hawthorne Lane, Friday Harbor, WA 98250

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pelindaba Lavender (@pelindabalavender)

Pelindaba Lavender Farm is a premier organic grower of lavender plants, distiller of lavender essential oils, and handcrafter of lavender products. Located on beautiful San Juan Island in Washington, the farm undertakes these activities in accordance with the highest environmental and aesthetic standards.

The farm offers a wide range of handmade luxury lavender gifts, home products, personal products, and edible treats, all made from organic lavender grown on the farm. Visitors to the farm can enjoy the stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Salish Sea, as well as the fragrance and beauty of the lavender fields.

Pelindaba Lavender Farm was opened to visitors in 2001, and since then, it has become one of the most popular visitor destinations in the San Juan Islands. The farm is spread over 25 beautiful acres with lake and mountain views, and it is open to visitors year-round.

During the summer months, the lavender is in bloom, and visitors can enjoy the sight and scent of the lavender fields. The peak season for lavender is July-August, and the farm hosts an annual San Juan Island Lavender Festival on the third weekend of July each year.

In addition to the festival, the farm offers guided tours, workshops, and classes on lavender cultivation, distillation, and product making. Visitors can also shop for lavender products at the farm’s gift shop or online. Pelindaba Lavender Farm is committed to sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship, and it has been certified organic by the Washington State Department of Agriculture since 2003.

Martha Lane Lavender

Website | 371 Martha Ln, Sequim, WA 98382

Martha Lane Lavender is a beautiful small lavender farm located in Sequim, Washington. It has 4000 purple, pink, and white lavender plants in bloom during July and August. The farm is nestled amongst Noble and Douglas Firs, providing a picturesque setting for visitors.

The farm offers visitors the opportunity to touch, see, and smell 30 varieties of lavender. Martha Lane Lavender also provides a you-pick option, where visitors can pick their own lavender for $5.

In addition to the lavender fields, Martha Lane Lavender has a gift shop that sells a variety of lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, lotions, and sachets. Visitors can also purchase fresh-cut lavender bundles and dried lavender products.

Overall, Martha Lane Lavender is a great destination for those looking to experience the beauty and fragrance of lavender in a peaceful setting.

Lavender Hill Farm

Website | 10425 SW 238th St, Vashon, WA 98070

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lavender Hill Farm (@lavenderhillvashon)

Lavender Hill Farm is a charming 1/2 acre certified organic lavender farm located on Vashon Island, Washington. The farm boasts stunning views of Mt. Rainier and the harbor. Visitors can enjoy the fragrant aroma of lavender while taking in the picturesque scenery.

The farm is open for U-Cut from late June to July. Visitors can pick their own lavender and take home a bundle of fresh flowers. Additionally, Lavender Hill Farm offers a vacation rental for those looking to extend their stay on the island.

In the farm shop, visitors can purchase a variety of lavender products such as essential oils, soaps, and lotions. All products are made with the highest quality ingredients and are crafted with care.

Lavender Hill Farm is a popular destination for those looking to relax and unwind. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Evergreen Valley Lavender Farm

Website | 9733 Evergreen Valley Rd SE, Olympia, WA 98513

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thane Bryenton (@evergreenvalleylavender)

Evergreen Valley Lavender Farm is a small boutique operation located in Olympia, Washington. The farm is owned and operated by Peggy and Thane Bryenton, who started the farm in 2008 after visiting Lavender Farms in Sequim, WA. The farm is known for its organic cultivation of 11 varieties of lavender, mostly of the English (Lavandula Angustifolia) variety, which is known for its strong aroma.

The farm offers a range of lavender products, including fresh (seasonal) and dried flowers and buds, essential oils and hydrosols, bath and body products, arts, and crafts. Visitors can purchase these products at the farm store, which is open seasonally from June 22nd to July 29th, on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Evergreen Valley Lavender Farm is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the beauty and fragrance of lavender fields. Visitors can stroll through the fields, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The farm also offers tours, during which visitors can learn about the history of the farm, the cultivation of lavender, and the production of lavender products.

Crescent Valley Lavender Farm

Website | 11501 Crescent Valley Dr NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Crescent Valley Lavender Farm (@crescent_valley_lavender)

Crescent Valley Lavender Farm is a family-owned working farm located in Gig Harbor, Washington. The farm has over 2,000 lavender plants in varying colors of greens, pinks, deep purple, and blue. Visitors can schedule a visit in advance through the farm’s website, and parking is available for a fee of $5 per car and all occupants.

In addition to lavender fields, Crescent Valley Lavender Farm offers a range of lavender products, including culinary products, handmade ceramics, bath products, lotions, balms, hydrosol, and essential oils. These products are available for purchase through the farm’s website or in-person at the farm store.

The farm also hosts events throughout the year, such as lavender festivals and workshops. Visitors can check the farm’s website for event information and updates.

Crescent Valley Lavender Farm has received positive reviews on Yelp and Facebook, with visitors praising the beauty of the lavender fields and the quality of the farm’s products. The farm’s location in Gig Harbor makes it a convenient destination for visitors to the area looking for a peaceful and picturesque experience.

Nelson’s Duckpond & Lavender Farm

Website | 73 Humble Hill Rd, Sequim, WA 98382

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nelson's Duckpond & Lavender (@_nelsons_duckpond_)

Nelson’s Duckpond & Lavender Farm is a small, family-owned lavender farm located in Sequim, Washington. The farm offers both lavender and lodging, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and peaceful getaway.

The farm is owned and operated by Jeff and Amy Lundstrom, who are the second generation of their family to run the farm. Visitors are welcome to stop by and wander through the beautiful lavender fields, sit by the pond, or stroll through the gardens. The farm also offers a range of lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, lotions, and more.

In addition to the lavender products, Nelson’s Duckpond & Lavender Farm also offers lodging options for those who want to stay on the farm. The farm has two cozy cottages available for rent, both of which are fully furnished with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.

Arlington Lavender Farm

Website | 20129 Tveit Rd, Arlington, WA 98223

Arlington Lavender Farm is a beautiful and serene farm nestled in the hills just above the historic downtown of Arlington, Washington. The farm is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the calming effects of lavender.

The farm features a wide variety of lavender plants and a gift shop where visitors can purchase lavender products such as essential oils, soaps, and lotions. The farm also offers guided tours where visitors can learn more about the history and uses of lavender.

One of the unique features of Arlington Lavender Farm is their Lavender Festival, which takes place in July. The festival is a celebration of all things lavender and includes live music, food vendors, and a variety of lavender-related activities.

Overall, Arlington Lavender Farm is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of lavender fields. With its wide variety of lavender plants, gift shop, and guided tours, visitors can learn more about the history and uses of lavender while enjoying the calming effects of this beautiful plant.

Cowlitz Falls Lavender Company

Website | 136 Falls Rd, Randle, WA 98377

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cowlitz Falls Lavender Company (@cowlitzfallslavender)

Cowlitz Falls Lavender Company is a commercial grower of lavender located in Randle, Washington. The farm specializes in offering a quiet mountain lavender field experience, with 600-foot-long rows and beautiful mountain backdrops. They provide naturally grown lavender buds, flowers, bunches, essential oils, and high-quality bath & body products.

Their booking services include weddings, photography locations, and a venue for public or private events. The farm is quietly located in the heart of Randle, Washington, situated in the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range and within 25 aerial miles of Mount St. Helens.

Cowlitz Falls Lavender Company has a year-long online store and offers amazing handcrafted products seasonally at their farm stand and in select area stores. Check their Google listing for updated hours.

With over 2,800 likes on Facebook, Cowlitz Falls Lavender Company has a dedicated following of customers who appreciate their high-quality products and beautiful fields of lavender. Their prices range from affordable to mid-range, making their products accessible to a wide range of customers.

Lavender Wind

Website | 15 NW Coveland St #284, Coupeville, WA 98239

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Lavender Wind is a family-owned and operated lavender farm located on Whidbey Island, Washington. The farm is situated in the historic waterfront district in Coupeville, WA. The farm is open to visitors during the summer season, and it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The farm boasts a beautiful view of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan De Fuca, making it a perfect spot for picnics and walking in the lavender fields. Visitors can take a tour of the farm and learn about the different varieties of lavender grown on the farm, including English, French, and Spanish lavender.

In addition to lavender, Lavender Wind also offers a variety of food products, including teas, jams, and jellies. Visitors can purchase these products at the farm or order them online. The farm also offers body care products, including spritzer lotions, salve, gardener’s cream, soaps, essential oils, and hydrosol.

Lavender Wind has a 1916 bungalow shop that visitors can tour. The shop is located in the historic waterfront district in Coupeville, WA. The shop offers a wide range of products, including lavender products, antiques, and gifts. Visitors can also purchase fresh-cut lavender bundles at the shop.

Overall, Lavender Wind is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in lavender farms. The farm offers a beautiful setting, a wide range of lavender products, and a unique shopping experience.

Kitty B’s Lavender Farm

Website | 82 Cameron Acres Ln, Sequim, WA 98382

Kitty B’s Lavender Farm is a beautiful and serene lavender farm located in Sequim, Washington, which is known as the lavender capital of North America. The farm spans over 2.5 acres and features over 2,000 lavender plants, which bloom in late June through August. The farm also has a lavender-themed gift shop that sells a variety of handmade lavender products, such as soaps, lotions, and sachets.

Visitors to Kitty B’s Lavender Farm can take a self-guided tour of the farm and learn about the different varieties of lavender grown on the farm. They can also enjoy the stunning scenery and take in the fragrant aroma of the lavender. The farm is open to visitors from June through August, and admission is free.

Kitty B’s Lavender Farm is a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful and relaxing environment. The farm offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of a lavender farm in the heart of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula.

In addition to its lavender products, Kitty B’s Lavender Farm also hosts events throughout the year, such as the Lavender Festival in July and the Harvest Festival in September. These events feature live music, food vendors, and activities for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, Kitty B’s Lavender Farm is a must-visit destination in Washington.

The Lavender Bloom Season

Washington State is famous for its beautiful lavender fields and farms. The lavender bloom season in Washington usually starts in late June and continues through mid-July. During this time, the fields are blanketed in vibrant shades of purple, creating a picturesque landscape that is perfect for photos.

The lavender plants in Washington are typically dormant during the winter months. However, when spring arrives, they start to rejuvenate, becoming lush and green. As the weather warms up, the plants begin to produce buds, and the first purple tint in the fields can be seen in late June.

Within a couple of weeks, the lavender fields are in full bloom, producing vibrant colors and a sweet, floral scent. Visitors can walk through the fields, taking in the beauty of the lavender and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

To get the most out of the lavender bloom season, it’s best to plan a visit to one of the many lavender farms and fields in Washington. Many of these farms offer U-cut lavender, allowing visitors to pick their own bunches of fresh lavender to take home.

Overall, the lavender bloom season in Washington is a must-see for anyone who loves the beauty of nature and the sweet scent of lavender. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, taking a trip to one of the state’s many lavender fields is an experience you won’t forget.

Lavender Festivals in Washington State

Washington State is known for its beautiful lavender farms and fields, and it’s no surprise that there are several lavender festivals held throughout the state. These festivals are a great way to experience the beauty and fragrance of lavender, as well as enjoy live music, food, and other events.

Annual Sequim Lavender Festival

The Annual Sequim Lavender Festival is one of the most popular lavender festivals in Washington State. It is held in July each year and features over 150 craft and lavender booths, as well as live music, food, and other events. The festival is free to attend, and visitors can enjoy u-cut lavender, shop for gifts, learn about farm life, watch essential oil distillation, and much more.

Many of the farms also offer workshops, demonstrations, and other educational opportunities during the peak growing months of July and August. Visitors can learn about the different varieties of lavender, how to grow and care for lavender, and how to use lavender essential oils in cooking and other applications.

Overall, the Annual Sequim Lavender Festival is a must-visit for anyone interested in lavender and the beautiful farms and fields of Washington State. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this festival is sure to delight your senses and provide a fun and educational experience.

Lavender Products and Uses

Lavender is a versatile plant that has been used for centuries in various products. From essential oils to bath salts, lavender has a wide range of uses. Here are some of the most popular lavender products and their uses.

Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular essential oils in the world. It is extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant through steam distillation. Lavender essential oil is known for its calming and relaxing properties and is often used in aromatherapy. It can also be used topically to soothe minor skin irritations.

Lavender flowers are not only beautiful but also have a pleasant fragrance. They can be used to make lavender sachets, potpourri, and bouquets. Dried lavender flowers can also be used in cooking and baking to add a unique flavor to dishes.

Lavender soap is a popular bath product that is known for its soothing properties. It is often made with natural ingredients and can be used to cleanse and moisturize the skin. Lavender soap can also be used to help relieve stress and promote relaxation.

Lavender Lemonade

Lavender lemonade is a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days. It is made by adding lavender syrup to lemonade and is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Lavender lemonade is also a popular drink at lavender festivals.

Lavender candles are a popular home fragrance product. They are often made with natural ingredients and can be used to create a relaxing and calming atmosphere. Lavender candles can also be used to help relieve stress and promote relaxation.

Lavender bath salts are a popular bath product that is known for its soothing properties. They are often made with natural ingredients and can be used to help relax and soothe tired muscles. Lavender bath salts can also be used to help relieve stress and promote relaxation.

Lavender-Themed Items

Lavender-themed items are popular gifts and souvenirs. They can include items such as lavender sachets, lavender-themed clothing and accessories, and lavender-themed home decor. Lavender-themed items are often sold at lavender festivals and at lavender farms.

In conclusion, lavender is a versatile plant that has a wide range of uses. From essential oils to bath salts, lavender products are known for their calming and relaxing properties. Whether you are looking for a natural way to relieve stress or simply want to add a pleasant fragrance to your home, lavender products are a great choice.

Visiting the Lavender Farms

Washington State is home to several beautiful lavender farms and fields that are worth visiting. The farms offer visitors a chance to stroll through the fields, enjoy the sweet scent of lavender, and experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest region. Most of the farms are open to the public during the summer months, with peak bloom season being mid-July.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the farms, which typically have designated paths to follow. Some farms also offer guided tours for a more in-depth experience. These tours may include information on the history of lavender farming, the different varieties of lavender, and the process of distilling lavender essential oil.

In addition to the lavender fields, most farms have a gift shop where visitors can purchase lavender products such as essential oils, soaps, lotions, and candles. Some farms also offer classes on making lavender products or cooking with lavender.

For those looking for a unique venue, some farms offer event spaces for weddings, parties, or other gatherings. Some farms even have vacation rentals available for those who want to stay on the farm overnight.

Visitors should be aware that parking may be limited at some farms and plan accordingly. Some farms may also have restrictions on picnicking or bringing pets. It’s always a good idea to check the farm’s website or Facebook page for updates and information on reservations.

Overall, visiting a lavender farm in Washington State is a must-do activity for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Pacific Northwest region. Whether you’re a local or a visitor from afar, these farms offer a unique and memorable experience that is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Unique Features of Lavender Farms

Washington state is home to a variety of unique lavender farms, each with its own charm and character. Visitors to these farms can enjoy a range of experiences, from wandering through fields of fragrant lavender to sampling lavender-infused foods and drinks. Here are some of the unique features that set these farms apart.

• Organic Certification : Many lavender farms in Washington are certified organic, meaning that they grow their lavender without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. For example, Jardin du Soleil Lavender Farm is certified organic by the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
• U-Pick Lavender : Some lavender farms allow visitors to pick their own lavender, which can be a fun and relaxing activity. For example, Purple Haze Lavender Farm offers a U-Pick Lavender experience, where visitors can cut their own lavender bundles to take home.
• Family-Owned : Many of Washington’s lavender farms are family-owned and operated, which gives them a unique and personal touch. For example, Lost Mountain Lavender is a family-owned farm that has been growing lavender for over 20 years.
• Alpacas and Ducks : Some lavender farms also have other animals on-site, such as alpacas and ducks. For example, Sequim Lavender Company has a herd of alpacas that visitors can feed and pet, and Purple Haze Lavender Farm has a duck pond.
• Garden Maze : Some lavender farms have garden mazes that visitors can explore. For example, Lavender Wind Farm has a garden maze made of lavender plants that visitors can wander through.
• Certified Organic Blueberries : Some lavender farms also grow certified organic blueberries, which can be a fun addition to a visit. For example, Pelindaba Lavender Farm on San Juan Island has a certified organic blueberry patch that visitors can pick from.
• Handcrafted Mead : Some lavender farms also produce handcrafted mead, which is a type of alcoholic beverage made from honey. For example, Sequim Lavender Company produces a lavender mead that is made with honey from their own hives.
• Wildflowers : Some lavender farms also have fields of wildflowers in addition to their lavender fields. For example, Lavender Wind Farm has a wildflower field that is home to a variety of native plants.
• Cascades and Puget Sound : Some lavender farms are located near the Cascade Mountains or Puget Sound, which provides a beautiful backdrop for a visit. For example, Jardin du Soleil Lavender Farm is located in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains, and Purple Haze Lavender Farm is located near the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
• Herb and History : Some lavender farms also have herb gardens and offer educational tours that cover the history and uses of lavender. For example, Lost Mountain Lavender has an herb garden and offers guided tours that cover the history of lavender and its uses in cooking, aromatherapy, and more.
• French and English Varieties : Some lavender farms grow both French and English varieties of lavender, which have slightly different characteristics. For example, Sequim Lavender Company grows both French and English lavender varieties.
• Relaxation : Finally, all lavender farms offer a sense of relaxation and tranquility, which is one of the main draws for visitors. Whether you’re wandering through fields of lavender, sipping lavender-infused drinks, or simply enjoying the scenery, a visit to a lavender farm is a great way to unwind and de-stress.

The Role of Lavender in the Local Economy

Lavender farming is an essential part of the local economy in Washington State, particularly in the Sequim area. The region’s ideal climate and soil conditions make it a perfect location for growing high-quality lavender. The industry has grown significantly in recent years, with many small and large lavender farms popping up across the Olympic Peninsula.

According to recent estimates, there are over 14 lavender farms in the Sequim area alone, with more than 10,000 plants in production. The farms range in size from small family-run operations to larger commercial enterprises. The lavender industry in Washington State generates millions of dollars in revenue each year, with the majority of the income coming from direct sales to consumers.

In addition to producing lavender, many farms in the area have diversified their operations to include agritourism. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including lavender picking, tours of the farms, and attending events such as the annual Lavender Festival in Sequim. These activities have helped to boost the local economy by attracting tourists to the region.

One of the most well-known lavender farms in the area is the George Washington Inn. This farm, located in the Port Angeles area, is a popular destination for visitors to the region. The farm produces a range of lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, and lotions. The George Washington Inn also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions.

Overall, the lavender industry plays a vital role in the local economy of Washington State. It provides a source of income for many small farmers and helps to attract tourists to the region. With the continued growth of the industry, it is likely that lavender farming will remain an essential part of the local economy for years to come.

My name is April, and I’m a Seattle-based writer, traveler, and foodie. I started this travel guide blog to share my passion for Seattle with fellow travelers and locals alike.

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Northwest Llama Adventures

Guided Llama Trips & Camping in Olympic National Park and Forests

We outfit some of the best areas of Washington state, including the finest wilderness areas of our Olympic National Park such as the Hoh River, the High Divide and the Enchanted Valley.   We also outfit the Sawtooth Backcountry of the Cascades.  

We are a family run business and we provide PhD led biological education in the Northwest’s finest wilderness(s).  Together with our llamas, we haul the load, manage camp and provide great, freshly cooked food in Northwest's finest places.  As time allows, we also provide drop camps & special events (e.g. weddings).    

Llama Lluxuries

Interested to learn more.

Llamas and humans have a deal based on mutual kindness:  we take them to the meadows they love; they carry our stuff up the mountain and help us spot wildlife. You explore the wilderness with the people you love with less weight on your back.  Unplug and go analog.  Dine of great fresh food.  

Email us at [email protected] or txt us at (425).two.four.six.0283 to discuss what we can do for you.   Based on that,  we send a planned itinerary and sample menus and other information for your consideration.   Or watch us at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCClpbrg0UkpklyQ53o_B-qA

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Agritourism

This page is dedicated as a resource for farmers, food system partners and community members interested in agritourism.

What is agritourism? Agritourism can be defined as a form of commercial enterprise that links agricultural production and/or processing with tourism to attract visitors onto a farm, ranch, or other agricultural business for the purposes of entertaining and/or educating the visitors while generating income for the farm, ranch, or business owner.

The importance of agritourism for farmers: Farmers find both financial and non-financial benefits to including agritourism as part of their business model. Agritourism allows farmers to diversify operations, spread financial risk, and maintain farmland in production.

There are many agritourism models employed by our area regional farmers. Some include:

• farm stands or shops
• farm stays, weddings and events
• on-farm classes
• youth camps
• fairs and festivals
• pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and Christmas tree farms
• wine tasting and harvest dinners

Helpful Resources

Getting Started in Agritourism

A Cooperative Extension guide from Cornell University on to how to begin, what visitors expect, customer relations, income streams, liability, and marketing. Includes an Agritourism Enterprise Checklist and other useful resources.

How to Develop a Farm Tour – Agritourism Best Practice Series

University of Vermont Agritourism Resource Hub

Includes helpful resources on getting started with an agritourism venture, financial planning, safety and liability, marketing, farm experiences and webinars. Additional resources include:  A Guide to Successful Agritourism Enterprises – pdf

USDA: Alternative Enterprises and Agritourism – Farming for Profit and Sustainability Resource Manual containing 2,300 pages of reference material. It is divided into 20 chapters and 37 sub-chapters to guide you to a subject of interest.

Agritourism & direct sales: best practices in COVID times and beyond

University of California Cooperative Extension, the Community Alliance with Family Farmers and partners for a series of 8 free virtual trainings in how to build your capacity to sell direct to consumers and build an agritourism business.

The International Workshop on Agritourism: presents Agritourism Gatherings: A virtual series for farm, food, and travel communities . The series brings together farmers, researchers, service providers, tourism experts and many others to share their knowledge and experience from around the world.

Agritourism in Washington State: An Industry Profile – WSU Publication

Practical Biosecurity Recommendations for Farm Hosts – WSU Publication

Additional Resources

• WA State RCW 4.24.830 – Agritourism Definition
• Washington State RCW 4.24.835 – Warning Notice
• SENATE BILL 5808 – Agritourism Civil Immunity WA State – State legislature enacting agritourism immunity law that protects agritourism businesses from liability in certain situations.
• National Agricultural Law Center – Deeper Dive into Agritourism Immunity Laws in the United States

Agritourism—Warning notice.

• Sample: WaFarm_WarningSign (pdf)
• WA Farm Bureau – Property Signs and Resources

Handbook For Small and Direct Marketing Farms

WSDA Green Book

• Fact Sheet #14: DIRECT MARKETING STRATEGIES CULINARY AND AGRITOURISM – This factsheet includes information on: • Agritourism and culinary tourism. • Regulations and other considerations. • Benefits and challenges. • Additional resources.

12 of the best things to do in Washington State

May 6, 2024 • 9 min read

Experience the best of Washington State with this guide to the top things to do © Joel Rogers / Getty Images

Washington’s headline act is its natural environment .

This intricate jumble of deep inlets, high mountains, thick forest, and broad river valleys sprinkled with fruit trees is best enjoyed through some form of self-powered human propulsion, be it on foot , on skis, on two wheels, or with a paddle in your hand.

Playing a more than adequate supporting act are the culture-loaded cities. The region is famed for its glass art, farmers markets, brewpubs, indie music venues and viticulture. For an overarching view of the Lower 48’s most northwesterly state, balance your time between urban and rural.

1. Admire the surreal glass art of Dale Chihuly in Seattle

Eclipsed only by Venice for its innovative glass art, Seattle brings together the magnificent works of Tacoma-born master, Dale Chihuly, in the bright confines of  Chihuly Garden and Glass , a beautifully curated museum that lies in the shadow of the iconic Space Needle . One of the largest galleries in the US devoted to one artist, the exhibition rooms present a dazzling kaleidoscope of orbs, sunbursts and delicate crystal.

Detour: Next door to Chihuly and equally extravagant in design is the super-modern  Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop) an obligatory musical stop in a city that blessed the world with Nirvana, Jimi Hendrix and Heart, among others.

2. Hike the summer meadows of Paradise on Mt Rainier

Few have the time or tenacity to make it to the glaciated 14,411ft summit of Mt Rainier (the Lower 48’s fifth highest mountain) but substantially more people manage to travel by vehicle to the profuse flower meadows at the national park hub of  Paradise . Overlooked by the mountain’s snow-capped dome, this vast natural playground anchored by the handsome Paradise Lodge built in 1916 marks the start of several paths, including the five-mile-long Skyline trail which leads hikers through endless alpine blooms to a 7100ft viewpoint called Panorama Point.

Need more hiking inspiration? Here are Washington State's best walking trails

3. Rent a bike and investigate the “Pig War” on San Juan Island

Largely rural and crisscrossed by a web of winding lanes demarcated by tangled hedgerows, the diminutive San Juan archipelago might have been designed with cycling in mind. Its second largest landfall, San Juan Island, has an unusual history showcased in a  national historical park that explores the legacy of one of North America’s most peculiar “conflicts”. The 1859 “Pig War” is the name given to a protracted military stand-off between the Americans and the British over the newly established international border where the only casualty was a local pig. You can find out more about how direct conflict was avoided, and level heads prevailed at two historically themed “camps” located at opposite ends of the island.

Detour: Afterwards, ferry your bike over to nearby Lopez Island, a 30-sq-mile slice of rural tranquility that’s home to a farmers market, vineyard and spring cycling race.

Excited by the idea of an adventure to San Juan Islands? Check out the First timer's guide to plan your trip. 

4. Visit one of the US’s finest Indigenous archaeological sites in Neah Bay

Of the many Native American tribes in Washington State, few have preserved their history as eloquently as the Makah, a whaling people who have inhabited the blustery northwestern tip of Washington since time immemorial. In 1970, a Pacific storm uncovered the remains of an ancient Makah village on the coast near Ozette, prompting the site to be comprehensively excavated by a group of American archaeologists working alongside tribal members. Rather than relocate the findings, which included whaling weapons, canoes, spears, and longhouses, the 55,000+ artifacts have been kept on the Makah reservation where they are now displayed in a superb museum in the Makah village of Neah Bay.

Detour: If you’ve traveled this far west, press on to Cape Flattery , 7 miles beyond Neah Bay, the most northwesterly point of the mainland US, a dramatic promontory perched high above the raging Pacific. 

5. Wander off the grid in Stehekin

Refreshingly detached from Washington's wider highway network by imposing mountains,  Stehekin is an isolated community in the North Cascades that’s impossible to reach by road. To get there, visitors must either catch a boat or seaplane across Lake Chelan, or hike in through the exhilarating wilderness of North Cascades National Park .

Physical isolation has helped foster Stehekin’s unique character. Home to a historic homestead, an organic garden, and a Seattle-quality wilderness bakery, this is a place to sidle up to nature unhindered by the distractions of the 21st-century news cycle. Rent a bike, grab an oar, or mount a horse and enjoy the simple pleasures of life before the internet and cell phones.

Planning tip: The quickest and most popular hiking route to Stehekin starts on Hwy 20 and tracks 23 miles south across the spectacular 5392ft Cascade Pass. It’s mostly snow-free from late June to late September. See the  national park website for more information.

Looking for more fantastic places to visit in Washington? Here's our guide to the best

6. Watch nature rejuvenating at Mt St Helens

The hot-headed stratovolcano that blew its top here in May 1980 is a more peaceful place these days with nature slowly recolonizing its post-apocalyptic blast zone. For anyone with a passing interest in volcanology, this is an obligatory geology lesson made infinitely more poignant (and fascinating) since the area was designated a  National Volcanic Monument in 1982.

The mountain’s 52-mile approach road (Hwy 504) harbors four different information portals headed up by the Silver Lake Visitors Center at mile 5 and the Johnston Ridge Observatory at mile 52. Both offer an educational assortment of movies, scientific panels, and interpretive trails explaining the finer details of what happened on that fateful day. There’s nowhere else like it in America.

7. Feel the full force of the wild west on Ruby Beach

Battered by sporadic storms and lashed by churning Pacific breakers,  Ruby Beach on Washington’s western shoreline is a windswept swathe of sand and rocks guarded by eroded sea-stacks and littered with piles of tree-trunk-sized driftwood. Come here for bracing walks amid wild ocean scenery looking out for bald eagles and colorful starfish. A short forest path descends from Hwy 101 to the beach at the mouth of Cedar Creek.  

Detour: Drive 32 miles inland to the less blustery but equally primeval world of the Hoh rainforest, an enchanting domain of lichen-heavy trees and dripping ferns.

Wondering when the best time to visit Washington State is? Check out our seasonal guide

8. Embrace spring tulips and daffodils in La Conner

Tiny  La Conner (population 965) packs a sizable punch with its classy B&Bs, niche shops and vivid fields of daffodils, tulips and irises that reach their zenith in spring. Sitting pretty on the flat delta of the fertile Skagit River Valley with the snowy tip of Mt Baker winking in the distance, the town, whose small street grid is lined with salt-of-the-earth restaurants and a trio of arts orientated museums, exudes the air of an upmarket rural retreat. Not surprisingly, it’s gained a reputation as a tranquil weekend getaway for stressed-out Seattleites. For full floral immersion visit the Roozengaarde Display Garden just outside town.

Planning tip: The highlight of La Conner's cultural calendar is the annual Skagit County Tulip Festival in April, an orgy of garden-hopping and florally themed selfies.

9. Sip New World wine in Walla Walla

Washington currently has 20 geographically defined wine growing regions or AVAs each with their own subtleties and nuances but, when it comes to overall tourist infrastructure, there’s only one contender:  Walla Walla .

Sequestered in the state’s well-irrigated southeastern corner, the town and its environs produce what are widely regarded as being the best “new” vintages in the US in more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms. Propping up the tourist economy are all the necessary ingredients of a vibrant viticulture: a handsome Main St, a warm, dry climate, and a clutch of fine restaurants that pair memorable vinos with well-nurtured local food.

10. Cross-country ski around Winthrop and the Methow Valley

Cross-country skiing is invariably confined to small parks and designated resorts but, in the Methow Valley, around the compact town of Winthrop, you can ski for days, from hut to hut and lodge to lodge, along 120 miles of interconnected trails run by a  local non-profit .

The best starting point is the  Sun Mountain Lodge , a self-contained adventure haven with its own trail network perched atop a hill above Winthrop. From here, ski trails link down to the bucolic Methow Valley where several more rustic-chic lodges can rehabilitate your fatigued legs at the end of an invigorating day on the tracks.

The lightly populated valley is bookended by the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it community of Mazama and charming Wild West-themed Winthrop.

Planning tip: Hwy 20, the main road across the North Cascades to Winthrop is closed between late-November and April due to snow blockage. To reach the valley from Seattle during the ski season, you’ll need to take US 2 over Stevens Pass to Wenatchee before switching to Hwys 97 and 15.

11. Go Bavarian in Leavenworth

Leavenworth , Washington’s meticulous recreation of a cute Bavarian village, sits in a spectacular pocket of the Cascade Mountains that’s eerily redolent of the Alps. The former lumber town’s metamorphosis came about in the 1960s when the re-routing of the cross-continental railway threatened to put it unceremoniously out of business. Swapping tree-chopping for tourism, community authorities promptly reinvented Leavenworth with a picturesque German theme complete with gabled “fachwerk” houses, geranium-stuffed flower boxes and bars plying beer and bratwurst. The result is remarkably authentic. Tourists pull over in their droves, not just for the kitschy  nutcracker museum and lederhosen wearing restaurant-staff, but for the numerous hiking, rock-climbing and backpacking opportunities that await in the adjacent  Alpine Lakes Wilderness .

12. Spend a night in Spokane’s historic Davenport hotel

Washington’s second largest metropolis and capital of the so-called “Inland Empire” doesn’t get the same name-recognition as Seattle or Tacoma. Yet urban underdog Spokane is home to one of the grandest hotels in the US, the opulent  Davenport , a deluxe Renaissance-Revival five-star that’s been charming presidents and movie stars since 1914.

Even if you don’t plan on staying the night in one of its historically elegant rooms, it’s worth dropping by this venerable institution to admire the exquisite lobby or nurse a martini beneath the stained-glass ceiling of the in-house Peacock Lounge.

Detour: When in Spokane it would be remiss not to visit downtown Riverfront Park , site of the 1974 World’s Fair, with its SkyRide gondola, hand-carved carousel, and close-up views of powerful Spokane Falls .

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Luke Bryan’s Farm Tour 2024 includes a stop in Pa. in September

• Updated: May. 03, 2024, 10:06 p.m. |
• Published: May. 03, 2024, 11:40 a.m.

Luke Bryan's Farm Tour 2024 includes a concert at a farm in Pa. in September. Here, he performs at Hersheypark Stadium in July 2023. Sean Simmers | [email protected]

• Deb Kiner | [email protected]

Country music star and “American Idol” judge Luke Bryan today announced his annual Farm Tour concerts for 2024.

Farm Tour 2024 includes four stops - one of which is in Pennsylvania. That concert is Saturday, Sept. 28, at Cunningham Family Farm at 355 Fitz Henry Road in Smithton, Westmoreland County.

The other Farm Tour concerts are Sept. 21 at Huggins Store in Marshville, North Carolina; Sept. 26 at Mulberry Orchard in Shelbyville, Kentucky; and Sept. 27 at Miller Family Farm in Millersport, Ohio.

Tickets go on sale for Nut House fan club members at 10 a.m. Monday, May 6.

Tickets are $65 in advance and $80 at the door. Parking is $10 in advance and $20 at the door.

Parking begins at 2 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the show is at 6 p.m. The show will be held rain or shine. Chairs and blankets are allowed in designated areas.

Special guests will be Conner Smith, Tucker Wetmore, Peach Pickers with Rodney Clawson and DJRock.

Bryan started the Farm Tour in 2009 as way of giving back to and honoring farming communities. Proceeds benefit charities and college scholarships for students of farming families.

The Farm Tour comes after the end of Bryan’s “Mind of a Country Boy” tour that started in April and ends in mid-September.

Stops remaining on the “Mind of a Country Boy” tour include:

June 13 - Jacksonville, Florida

June 14 - Orange Beach, Alabama

June 15 - Orange Beach, Alabama

June 21 - Endicott, New York

June 22 - Bristow, Virginia

June 27 - Grand Rapids, Michigan

June 28 - Detroit, Michigan

July 11 - Bethel, New York

July 12 - Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

July 13 - Cincinnati, Ohio

July 18 - Gilford, New Hampshire

July 19 - Gilford, New Hampshire

July 20 - Gilford, New Hampshire

July 26 - Omaha, Nebraska

July 27 - Ridgedale, Missouri

July 28 - Maryland Heights, Missouri

Aug. 1 - Idaho Falls, Idaho

Aug. 2 - Nampa, Idaho

Aug. 8 - Chula Vista, California

Aug. 9 - Inglewood, California

Aug. 10 - San Bernardino, California

Aug. 15 - Kansas City, Missouri

Aug. 17 - Atlanta, Georgia

Aug. 22 - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Aug. 24 - Des Moines, Iowa

Aug. 25 - Chicago, Illinois

Sept. 5 - Somerset, Wisconsin

Sept. 7 - Noblesville, Indiana

Sept. 12 - West Palm Beach, Florida

Sept. 14 - Tampa, Florida

Bryan also will perform at the Barefoot Country Music Fest in Wildwood, New Jersey, June 20-23.

Fans can watch him on “American Idol” on Sundays and Mondays on ABC where he is a judge along with Katy Perry and Lionel Richie. Viewers can watch ABC without cable on fuboTV (free trial) and DirecTV Stream (free trial).

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33 arrested at George Washington University as DC mayor’s congressional hearing is canceled

WASHINGTON (AP) — Police cleared a pro-Palestinian tent encampment at George Washington University early Wednesday and arrested demonstrators, hours after dozens marched to the home of the school’s president as city officials prepared to appear before Congress on the protest’s handling.

Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and District of Columbia’s Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith were called  to testify  Wednesday afternoon at the Republican-led House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, but the hearing was canceled after the arrests.

Tensions have ratcheted up in standoffs with protesters of  the Israel-Hamas war  on campuses across the U.S., and  increasingly in Europe . Some colleges cracked down immediately. Others have tolerated the demonstrations. Some have begun to lose patience and call in police over concerns about disruptions to campus life and safety.

District of Columbia police said officers moved to disperse demonstrators because “there has been a gradual escalation in the volatility of the protest.” It said 33 arrests were made, including for assault on a police officer and unlawful entry. Some protesters were pepper sprayed as police blocked them from the camp.

George Washington University had warned of possible suspensions for continuing the camp on University Yard. Protesters carrying signs that read, “Free Palestine” and “Hands off Rafah,” also marched to school President Ellen Granberg’s home Tuesday night.

“While the university is committed to protecting students’ rights to free expression, the encampment had evolved into an unlawful activity, with participants in direct violation of multiple university policies and city regulations,” a school statement said.

Since April 18, just over 2,600 people have been arrested on 50 campuses, figures based on AP reporting and statements from universities and law enforcement agencies after this latest anti-war movement was launched by a protest at Columbia University.

A pro-Palestinian tent encampment  was cleared by officers in riot gear at the University of Chicago on Tuesday  after administrators who had initially adopted a permissive approach said they had crossed a line, increasing safety concerns. Hundreds of protesters had gathered for at least eight days until administrators warned them Friday to leave or face removal.

Officers later picked up a barricade erected to keep protesters out of the Quad and moved it toward the demonstrators, some of whom chanted, “Up, up with liberation. Down, down with occupation!” Police and protesters pushed back and forth along the barricade as the officers moved to reestablish control.

“The university remains a place where dissenting voices have many avenues to express themselves, but we cannot enable an environment where the expression of some dominates and disrupts the healthy functioning of the community for the rest,” University of Chicago President Paul Alivisatos wrote.

Other schools are letting protesters hold rallies and organize their encampments as they see fit.

The president of Wesleyan University, a liberal arts school in Connecticut, has commended the on-campus demonstration — which includes a pro-Palestinian tent encampment — as an act of political expression. The camp there has grown from about 20 tents a week ago to more than 100.

“The protesters’ cause is important — bringing attention to the killing of innocent people,” university President Michael Roth wrote to the campus community Thursday. “And we continue to make space for them to do so, as long as that space is not disruptive to campus operations.”

The Rhode Island School of Design’s president, Crystal Williams, spent more than five hours with protesters discussing their demands after students started occupying a building Monday. The school affirms students’ rights to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly and supports all members of the community, a spokesperson said.

On Tuesday the school announced it was relocating classes from the building, which was covered with posters reading “Free Palestine” and “Let Gaza Live.”

Some colleges have tried tactics from appeasement to threats of disciplinary action to  clear the way for commencements.

And police moved in Tuesday night to break up an encampment at the University of Massachusetts. Video from the scene in Amherst showed an hours-long operation as dozens of police officers in riot gear systematically tearing down tents and taking protesters into custody. The operation continued into early Wednesday.

UMass Chancellor Javier Reyes said he ordered the sweep after discussions over a wide range of demands failed to yield an agreement to dismantle the encampment and engage in “constructive discussions.”

Associated Press journalists around the U.S. and world contributed, including Charles Rex Arbogast, Pat Eaton-Robb, Steve LeBlanc, Jeff Amy, Christopher Weber, Mike Corder, Barbara Surk, Rick Callahan, Sarah Brumfield and Pietro de Cristofaro.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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33 arrested at George Washington University as DC mayor’s congressional hearing is canceled

WASHINGTON (AP) — Police cleared a pro-Palestinian tent encampment at George Washington University early Wednesday and arrested demonstrators, hours after dozens marched to the home of the school’s president as city officials prepared to appear before Congress on the protest’s handling.

Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and District of Columbia’s Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith were called  to testify  Wednesday afternoon at the Republican-led House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, but the hearing was canceled after the arrests.

Tensions have ratcheted up in standoffs with protesters of  the Israel-Hamas war  on campuses across the U.S., and  increasingly in Europe . Some colleges cracked down immediately. Others have tolerated the demonstrations. Some have begun to lose patience and call in police over concerns about disruptions to campus life and safety.

District of Columbia police said officers moved to disperse demonstrators because “there has been a gradual escalation in the volatility of the protest.” It said 33 arrests were made, including for assault on a police officer and unlawful entry. Some protesters were pepper sprayed as police blocked them from the camp.

George Washington University had warned of possible suspensions for continuing the camp on University Yard. Protesters carrying signs that read, “Free Palestine” and “Hands off Rafah,” also marched to school President Ellen Granberg’s home Tuesday night.

“While the university is committed to protecting students’ rights to free expression, the encampment had evolved into an unlawful activity, with participants in direct violation of multiple university policies and city regulations,” a school statement said.

Since April 18, just over 2,600 people have been arrested on 50 campuses, figures based on AP reporting and statements from universities and law enforcement agencies after this latest anti-war movement was launched by a protest at Columbia University.

A pro-Palestinian tent encampment  was cleared by officers in riot gear at the University of Chicago on Tuesday  after administrators who had initially adopted a permissive approach said they had crossed a line, increasing safety concerns. Hundreds of protesters had gathered for at least eight days until administrators warned them Friday to leave or face removal.

Officers later picked up a barricade erected to keep protesters out of the Quad and moved it toward the demonstrators, some of whom chanted, “Up, up with liberation. Down, down with occupation!” Police and protesters pushed back and forth along the barricade as the officers moved to reestablish control.

“The university remains a place where dissenting voices have many avenues to express themselves, but we cannot enable an environment where the expression of some dominates and disrupts the healthy functioning of the community for the rest,” University of Chicago President Paul Alivisatos wrote.

Other schools are letting protesters hold rallies and organize their encampments as they see fit.

The president of Wesleyan University, a liberal arts school in Connecticut, has commended the on-campus demonstration — which includes a pro-Palestinian tent encampment — as an act of political expression. The camp there has grown from about 20 tents a week ago to more than 100.

“The protesters’ cause is important — bringing attention to the killing of innocent people,” university President Michael Roth wrote to the campus community Thursday. “And we continue to make space for them to do so, as long as that space is not disruptive to campus operations.”

The Rhode Island School of Design’s president, Crystal Williams, spent more than five hours with protesters discussing their demands after students started occupying a building Monday. The school affirms students’ rights to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly and supports all members of the community, a spokesperson said.

On Tuesday the school announced it was relocating classes from the building, which was covered with posters reading “Free Palestine” and “Let Gaza Live.”

Some colleges have tried tactics from appeasement to threats of disciplinary action to  clear the way for commencements.

And police moved in Tuesday night to break up an encampment at the University of Massachusetts. Video from the scene in Amherst showed an hours-long operation as dozens of police officers in riot gear systematically tearing down tents and taking protesters into custody. The operation continued into early Wednesday.

UMass Chancellor Javier Reyes said he ordered the sweep after discussions over a wide range of demands failed to yield an agreement to dismantle the encampment and engage in “constructive discussions.”

Associated Press journalists around the U.S. and world contributed, including Charles Rex Arbogast, Pat Eaton-Robb, Steve LeBlanc, Jeff Amy, Christopher Weber, Mike Corder, Barbara Surk, Rick Callahan, Sarah Brumfield and Pietro de Cristofaro.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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