Agritourism in Florida: Growing Connections Between Farms and Families

When most people think of Florida agriculture, they think of the crops, livestock and hardworking producers who help feed our communities. But across the state, a growing number of agricultural operations are finding new ways to connect consumers with the farm through agritourism.

At Farm Credit of Florida, we're proud to support agricultural businesses that are not only producing, but also creating experiences that help the public better understand and appreciate agriculture. From farm markets and U-pick operations to seasonal festivals and educational experiences, agritourism is helping strengthen Florida farms while building meaningful connections between producers and consumers.

What Is Agritourism?

Agritourism combines agriculture and tourism, inviting visitors onto working farms and ranches to experience agriculture firsthand. These operations may offer farm tours, U-pick fields, educational programs, seasonal events, markets, festivals and other activities that allow guests to engage directly with farming.

For agricultural producers, agritourism can create new revenue streams, diversify operations and introduce consumers to the important role agriculture plays in their everyday lives. For visitors, it provides a unique opportunity to experience where their food comes from and learn more about the people who produce it.

“Producing crops or livestock is only half the story. Agritourism allows farmers to harvest a income stream that helps protect them from unpredictable weather events and prices and keep family traditions alive.  Without the income from agritourism many smaller farms would cease to exist.” -Greg Brown, Commercial Relationship Officer

As Florida's agricultural industry continues to evolve, agritourism has become an increasingly valuable tool for helping farms remain resilient while preserving agricultural traditions for future generations.

Supporting Growth Beyond the Farm Gate

Agritourism requires more than great ideas. Many operations invest in infrastructure, buildings, parking areas, event spaces, retail markets and equipment to create safe and enjoyable experiences for visitors.

At Farm Credit of Florida, we understand the unique needs of agricultural operations because agriculture is our sole focus. Our team works with producers and agribusiness owners throughout the state, providing financing solutions that help support growth, diversification and long-term success.

Whether a producer is expanding a farm market, developing a U-pick experience or enhancing visitor amenities, access to reliable financing can help turn opportunities into reality.

Member Spotlight: Bedner's Farm Fresh Market

One member that exemplifies the value of agritourism is Bedner's Farm Fresh Market in Boynton Beach, Florida. For decades, the family-owned operation has connected South Florida residents with locally grown produce while creating memorable farm experiences for visitors of all ages. The farm operates on approximately 80 acres and has become a popular destination for fresh produce, U-pick experiences and seasonal events.

Throughout the year, visitors can shop for fresh produce, participate in seasonal U-pick opportunities and experience life on a working farm. These experiences help bridge the gap between consumers and agriculture, giving families a closer look at the work that goes into producing the food they enjoy every day.

A Florida Fall Tradition

Each fall, Bedner's Farm Fresh Market welcomes thousands of visitors during its annual fall festival, which features a pumpkin patch, tractor rides, a corn maze, sunflower experiences, family-friendly activities and more. The event has become a seasonal tradition for many South Florida families looking to celebrate autumn on a working farm.

While pumpkins and hayrides may be the attractions that bring visitors through the gate, the real impact runs deeper. Agritourism experiences like these provide an opportunity for people to learn about farming, support local agriculture and gain a greater appreciation for the producers who help feed their communities.

For many children, a visit to a farm may be their first direct interaction with agriculture. Those experiences help create stronger connections between consumers and the agricultural industry while fostering appreciation for the future of farming.

Investing in the Future of Florida Agriculture

Agritourism is about more than entertainment. It represents innovation, diversification and the ability of Florida farmers to adapt to changing markets while remaining connected to their agricultural roots.

Operations like Bedner's Farm Fresh Market demonstrate how farms can successfully combine production agriculture with consumer engagement, creating opportunities that support both their businesses and their communities.