Agritourism dates back to the late 1800s, when families and friends visited relatives on farms to escape the city. Agritourism today incorporates education and activities for visitors who are looking to better understand the farm to fork process. Among the South Shore's agritourism opportunities are:
The South Shore is full of opportunities to experience farms featuring animals, fresh fruits and vegetables as well as numerous activities!
Farmers' Markets
Many of the communities along the South Shore host farmers' markets from spring to fall, featuring the freshest produce, flowers, artisan breads, homemade jams and more.
From summer to fall, visit the local u-picks to find blueberries and strawberries. In September and October, head to the apple orchards and pumpkin patches for fun fall activities. At Fair Oaks Farms you can visit their apple orchard, sunflower fields and pumpkin patch onsite. Harvest Tyme Family Farm has u-pick sunflowers and pumpkins, hayrides, corn mazes, amusement rides and more.
Dining at our Farm to Fork Restaurants you can enjoy the freshest cuisine handcrafted by masterful chefs. The Farmhouse Restaurant at Fair Oaks provides classic American fare featuring beef, pork and produce from their farm. Octave Grill in Chesterton is a small-town restaurant known for their delicious burgers. If you're looking for a mouth-watering breakfast or lunch, the Harvest Room in Munster hits the spot.
Experience what it is like to work on a farm at Fair Oaks Farms. Their Dairy Adventure, Pig Adventure and Crop Adventure offer a sneak peek into modern-day farming with interactive and educational exhibits for all ages. Tour the facilities and learn how milk and food are produced, from farm to fork! Visit the Farmhouse Restaurant for a sit-down farm to fork experience or stop by the Cowfe for fresh and creamy ice cream or some cheese to take home.
Northwest Indiana is home to dozens of breweries and wineries that use locally sourced ingredients to produce the best tasting beverages right here along the South Shore. Enjoy a number of seasonal blends using blueberries, apples and pumpkin throughout the year. See what's on tap at our breweries by downloading the South Shore Brewery Trail App.
Would you like more information about the South Shore and the Indiana Dunes? Use the links below to request a visitor's guide be mailed to you, download our Indiana Dunes brochure, join our e-newsletter list or sign up for text alerts.
