City slickers find fun on the farm

NASHVILLE-- Rural vistas, country music, and easy access from just about anywhere make Tennessee a popular summertime destination. When friends and relatives come to visit, consider skipping the crowds and costs of a typical tourist attraction and head to a local farm.

Picking peaches, making soap, or taking an art class create great memories in a relaxed setting. Many agritourism farms have sheltered areas for picnics, playgrounds for children, and areas to explore at a visitor's own pace.

"We're teaching people how to milk a goat this summer," said Beth Bohnert of Mountain Hollow Farm near Knoxville. Mountain Hollow also has a country store featuring yarn, fine handcrafts, and goat's milk soap. "Visit the store to shop or just hang out. We always have a pot of tea on and chairs awaiting anyone who wants to knit, crochet, spin, or simply chat for a while."

Near Greeneville, farmers at The Farm at Spring Creek teach classes in traditional homestead skills. Guests can sign up for classes to make soap, jam, and even mozzarella cheese.

"We provide a walking or golf cart tour to see our livestock, which include cattle, hogs, chickens, ducks, and other animals, and explain in detail how we farm," said Kevin and Mikki Krause of Liberty Trace Farm near Hampshire.

Just outside of Memphis, Jones Orchard in Millington is a favorite destination for produce, particularly numerous varieties of peaches. Customers can pick their own, purchase produce, and even take home jams, jellies, and other foods from the orchard's farm store.

Lake Nowhere Mule and Donkey Farm in Martin offers educational "farm-cations" with a cabin available for guests. "We have room for you, your mule and canine family members," owners Deb and Jim Kidwell said. "We can do a day ride and then sit on the porch and talk mule."

When visiting any farm, make sure to call ahead and check the farm's social media to ensure the farm is open for the day. Find local farms and learn how to be a good farm guest with the Pick TN mobile app or visit www.PickTnProducts.org. Follow Pick TN on social media for seasonal updates, recipes and farm-related activities.