'Agritourism' Gaining In Popularity

The growing trend of "entertainment farming" could be a great financial boon to Califormia's agricultural community.

1 minute read

May 13, 2005, 1:00 PM PDT

By Brenda Meyer

"Across California, there is a growing convergence between agriculture and entertainment as small farms turn to a bit of showbiz to survive....

Perhaps fittingly in this entertainment capital, more than 600 farms around the state now offer a direct-marketing component, a fivefold increase over the past decade. In addition to traditional enticements such as fruit stands and pick-your-own plots, growers are carving mazes in cornfields, opening dude ranches and setting up pony rides and petting zoos to draw customers eager to experience life on the farm.

Dubbed agritourism or agritainment, the movement is steadily picking up steam as associations form to promote entertainment farming and jurisdictions relax regulations to make it easier to launch such ventures."

Thanks to Brenda Meyer

FULL STORY: Fertile Fields for Tourism

Thursday, May 12, 2005 in The Los Angeles Times

Land Use California

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.