Agritourism, or agricultural tourism, is an increasingly popular business model, where farms host visitors for educational, recreational, or retail purposes. Guests get an enjoyable and educational experience, and farms are able to generate additional income for year-round operation.
Caldwell, Idaho, is a beautiful rural town near the state’s western border that has successfully led the region’s agritourism economy in several exciting ways. The area has a rich agricultural heritage, and Caldwell’s agritourism is dedicated to preserving it. Caldwell has an initiative called the AgVenture Trail, a self-guided tour that brings tourists through the Snake Valley watershed, where they have a chance to engage with various orchards, farms, and business models.
Below are highlights from Caldwell’s homegrown version of American agritourism.
Bitner Vineyards
Bitner Vineyards is a local gem and has developed a renowned, sustainable reputation for itself with visitors. It’s the first vineyard in Idaho that is sustainable LIVE certified, Salmon-Safe certified, and a promoter of bee-friendly farming practices. They’re a small batch vineyard that produces 1,200-1,500 cases of wine per year. Thanks to their popularity, Bitner has acquired a considerable list of members, who often visit the vineyard and participate in members-only wine tastings and take in the scenery. All tastings and bottle purchases go to the vineyard, which, in the words of founder Dr. Ron Bitner, aims to take care of the land through responsible stewardship—and to pass it down to future generations.
Summerlin Alpaca Farm
This alpaca farm is a Caldwell treasure. The owner saw an alpaca on the Today Show in 1992 and fell in love. She decided she wanted a peaceful career, where she could care for animals, produce great things, and get love in return. Summerlin Alpaca Farm proved to be just the ticket for the founder and her animals, and today visitors flock to the farm to learn more about alpacas, interact with them, and purchase beautiful, ethically sourced alpaca fur. The alpaca industry has actually seen a recent boom, and visits from tourists help keep the farm in good shape.
Peaceful Belly Farm
Peaceful Belly sits on 35 acres and is an ecologically regenerative farm, café, cider house, farm stand, and Community Supported Agriculture program. Although the farm itself is run by a small family, its impact permeates through the community. Their certified organic vegetables support 200 CSA members, The New Boise Farmers Market, The Boise Co-op, and a number of local restaurants. They grow over 180 fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. They also offer educational and outreach programs, geared to make their food and mission accessible to everyone, regardless of socioeconomic class. As founders Clay and Josie Erksine say, “Peaceful Belly is not just a farm, but a way of thinking.”
When you visit the farm, be sure to try a range of their delicious ciders, like the Back Country hard cider, or the refreshing Skinny Dipper. The ciders pair excellently with the restaurant’s fresh plates—and if you need fruits and veggies for your own kitchen, don’t miss out on the farm store. In buying Peaceful Belly’s goods, you will support a wide range of local farmers.
Cherry Hill Farms
For the past five generations, the Rowley family has made a living off of their expansive cherry, apple, and peach tree orchard. They grow, pick, and package with the customer in mind, and strive to provide the freshest fruit possible. In addition to making their products available online, Cherry Hill also has an option where visitors can pick their own produce. This is especially great for families, and there’s pretty much always something to pick from June to October. Be sure to check out the farm’s list of in-season produce before your visit.
Cherry Hill also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including May’s Spring Blossom Tour and July’s Idaho Cherry Harvest Tour. Hop on a wagon tour of the orchard, you’ll see the experts at work, as well as fields of beautiful flowers. It’s the perfect warm-weather agritourism experience for western Idaho.
Steele Legacy Honey & Crafts
This bee farm is run by the Tate family, who pride themselves on a legacy of bees, honey, and hard work. They’ve perfected beekeeping, and have a real passion for teaching people. For those who don’t shy away from a new experience, there are beekeeping tours open to the public. The Tates provide suits for visitors, who will wander through the hives and meet the thousands of bees that call Steele Legacy home. You’ll also get a chance to taste their bees’ fresh honey. Stop by their shop on site, or look for them at Caldwell’s farmer’s markets. You’ll also notice their beautiful beeswax ornaments, which make lovely holiday gifts for family and friends.
McIntyre Farms
Since 1909, the McIntyre family has cared for and farmed their plot in Caldwell. What began as a small operation has blossomed into a sustainable and well-rounded family business. The farm is home to many animals, including cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys, and more. The McIntyre’s farming practices are highly sustainable and include a pasture-based system, no till-farming, non-GMO, soy-free products, hormone/antibiotic-free diets, and humanely raised, traceable, and harvestable animals. Both the animals and the land are very well cared for at the farm, which is what makes it so unique. Visit the farm to get your fix of fresh poultry, dairy, and meats—and if you plan on buying a big Thanksgiving turkey from McIntyre Farms, be sure to get on the list quickly. Their turkeys are a hot commodity every November.
Looking at homes for sale near Caldwell, Idaho?
If you’re interested in learning more about Caldwell and its exciting agritourism opportunities, contact Oliver O’Gara Real Estate today. Oliver offers clients deep local expertise and market insights for the Caldwell, Nampa, and Boise real estate markets, and will help you find the Idaho property of your dreams.
