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Agritourism in West Virginia

By Maggie Blankenship

Agritourism in West Vi
Photo by West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

From pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms to wineries, cideries and u-pick fields, West Virginia agritourism offers wild and wonderful opportunities no matter what part of the state you’re in or what season it is. Whether you are planning a day trip or vacation, the Mountain State is filled with hidden gems.

Agritourism is a growing industry in West Virginia, and many farmers and business owners have turned to this sector to diversify their income and expand a typical growing season. With more than 300 agritourism operations across the state, West Virginia offers a variety of fun on the farm, including fall farm attractions, Christmas tree farms, u-pick flower fields and orchards, farm stays, wedding barns, maple sugar shacks, wineries, distilleries, cideries, fairs and festivals. The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) is working to promote this new industry by offering an interactive map with agritourism operations across the state, which can be found at agriculture.wv.gov/ag-business/agritourism.

Cheers to the Mountain State

Our craft beverage scene is hoppin’! From beer and wine to moonshine, the state has something spirited for every tastebud. Grab a bar stool and belly up to some truly unique West Virginia flavors.

Swilled Dog Cider and Distillery in Upper Tract serves locally sourced cider, bourbon and canned craft cocktail drinks. Make sure you visit the cozy tasting room and give the distillery’s mascot, Lucy Pickles, all the pets. A portion of Swilled Dog’s sales go to charities for four-legged friends.

In Martinsburg, Black Draft Distillery is a short distance from Washington, D.C. Offering events, entertainment, specialty cocktails and a gorgeous setting, this distillery is always rocking. Sourcing some of its ingredients straight from the land, Black Draft partners with local farmers every chance it gets.

Kirkwood Winery and Isaiah Morgan Distillery in Summersville is best known for its sweet wines. It’s the perfect place to take a tour of a winery and enjoy a wine tasting. Kirkwood Winery holds its Wine and Music Festival every September.

These are just a few of the many craft beverage producers throughout the Mountain State—more can be found on the WVDA’s interactive map.

I Pick, U-Pick, Farm Picks

What better way to spend a weekend than at a local farm picking berries and flowers or petting all sorts of cute critters? West Virginia agritourism farms have hands-on activities for all ages.

Orr’s Farm Market in Martinsburg is more than just an orchard and farm market. This family-favorite destination grows everything from apricots and apples to pumpkins and peaches, which you can pick yourself. Don’t miss out on the market’s barnyard, corn maze and hayrides.

Country Road House and Berries in Clendenin is the perfect weekend getaway. Conveniently located just outside of Charleston, this bed and breakfast offers the full farm experience. Spend a spring morning picking strawberries in the field, wander the woods on a fall afternoon foraging for pawpaws and black walnuts, and head into town for a locally sourced dinner.

At Wild Goats Farm in Clarksburg, you can chill out with 100 farm animals. Take a break from everyday life to feed pigs, watch goats play and pet an alpaca. Be sure to book an appointment online first.

Farm to Fork

Eating locally is the best way to get to know a town. Check out some of our favorites from around the state that use fresh ingredients from the farm.

Fish Hawk Acres in Buckhannon is the perfect farm-to-table experience. Chef Dale Hawkins works with produce he grows on his farm right outside of town. With fresh ingredients, years of experience and a discerning eye, you’ll be coming back for more of his delicious culinary creations. Check out Fish Hawk’s wine dinners and its sister retail store just down the street.

Season’s Greetings

The fun doesn’t stop in West Virginia when the temperatures turn chilly. There are pumpkin patches, corn mazes and Christmas tree farms to explore, and the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a winter wonderland wedding at a quaint West Virginia barn.

CW’s Corn Maze in Cass is the place to let your kids burn some energy after a scenic, leaf-peeping train ride. With activities like a corn maze, petting zoo and pumpkin patch, you’ll leave with tired kiddos and happy parents.

Located in Griffithsville, Wilkerson Christmas Tree Farm will take you back in time. Nothing is more nostalgic than choosing and cutting down your own Christmas tree. At Wilkerson’s, you have hundreds of trees to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a Charlie Brown tree or a willowy white pine tree, Wilkerson’s has the perfect tree for your home.

Misty Mountain Event Barn in Fisher is nestled in the hills of Hardy County. This working farm is the perfect spot for an events center. It hosts weddings, meetings and parties, all overlooking lush fields and beautiful misty mountains. This is a little slice of heaven.

Whether you’re picking the perfect pumpkin, enjoying a craft beer or wandering through a Christmas tree farm, West Virginia has agritourism experiences for everyone. Embrace the charm and hospitality of the Mountain State and discover the hidden gems that make every season special.

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