100+ Farms in New Jersey: A Garden State Getaway

Explore the Bounty of the Garden State's Farms

New Jersey, known as the "Garden State," is a haven for farm-to-table enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With over 100 farms scattered across its rolling hills and fertile valleys, the state offers a diverse array of agricultural experiences for visitors of all ages.

1. Explore Historic Farms

a. Alstede Farms (Chester)

Established in 1906, Alstede Farms is a sprawling 1,200-acre expanse that offers a glimpse into rural life in the late 19th century. Visitors can explore the Victorian-era barn, meet friendly farm animals, and wander through picturesque gardens.

b. Pine Tavern Farms (Mullica Hill)

Dating back to 1750, Pine Tavern Farms is a living history museum that preserves the agricultural heritage of New Jersey. Guided tours showcase period farm equipment, demonstrations of traditional farming practices, and a chance to interact with costumed interpreters.

c. Van Doren Farms (Hopewell)

Van Doren Farms has been a family-run operation since 1892. The farm specializes in organic produce, including peaches, apples, and tomatoes. Visitors can explore their orchard, learn about sustainable farming practices, and savor fresh fruit right from the source.

2. Pick Your Own Produce

a. Battleview Orchards (Freehold)

With over 100 acres of apple orchards, Battleview Orchards is a popular destination for apple picking. Visitors can choose from a variety of apple varieties, enjoy hayrides, and indulge in freshly baked apple cider donuts.

b. Johnson's Corner Farm (Medford)

Johnson's Corner Farm has been offering pick-your-own experiences for over 50 years. They offer a wide range of fruits and vegetables, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and pumpkins. Visitors can also wander through their scenic corn mazes and enjoy live music on weekends.

c. Terhune Orchards (Princeton)

Terhune Orchards is a picturesque farm that offers apple picking, pumpkin picking, and a variety of farm-themed activities. They also have a cider mill, where visitors can witness the process of turning apples into delicious cider.

3. Visit Animal Farms

a. Creamy Acres Farm (Mullica Hill)

Creamy Acres Farm is a goat farm that welcomes visitors to meet and interact with their friendly herd. They also offer farm tours, goat yoga classes, and a petting zoo for a memorable animal experience.

b. Groovy Goat Farm (Oldwick)

Groovy Goat Farm is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating goats. Visitors can adoptable goats, learn about goat care, and enjoy educational demonstrations on goat farming.

c. Skyland Farm (Randolph)

Skyland Farm is a non-profit farm that cares for over 150 animals, including cows, pigs, horses, and alpacas. They offer guided tours, interactive exhibits, and a chance to connect with animals in a serene setting.

4. Enjoy Farm-to-Table Delights

a. The Farm at Thistledown (Alexandria)

The Farm at Thistledown is a certified organic farm that offers a farm-to-table dining experience in their rustic barn. They showcase the bounty of their farm, serving seasonal dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients.

b. Agricola Eatery (Princeton)

Agricola Eatery is a farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates the flavors of New Jersey produce. Their menu changes daily, based on the freshest ingredients available from local farms. Reservations are highly recommended.

c. Roots Steakhouse (East Rutherford)

Roots Steakhouse is a modern steakhouse that sources its meat from small, local farms. Their menu features dry-aged steaks, locally grown vegetables, and craft cocktails.

Farm Fun for All Ages

a. Space Farms Zoo & Museum (Beemerville)

Space Farms Zoo & Museum is a family-friendly attraction that combines a zoo with a museum. Visitors can see exotic animals, explore interactive exhibits on space and geology, and enjoy a variety of rides and activities.

b. Howell Living History Farm (Farmingdale)

Howell Living History Farm transports visitors back in time to the 19th century. Costumed interpreters demonstrate daily life on a working farm, offering hands-on experiences and a glimpse into the past.

c. Diggerland USA (West Berlin)

Diggerland USA is a unique construction-themed amusement park. Visitors can operate real construction equipment, ride earthmoving machines, and play in a giant sandbox.

Statistics on New Jersey Farms

• New Jersey is home to over 100,000 acres of farmland, contributing $3.2 billion to the state's economy.
• The Garden State produces over 300 different crops, including blueberries, cranberries, sweet corn, tomatoes, and asparagus.
• New Jersey has the largest blueberry industry in the United States, with over 8,000 acres of blueberry farms.
• The state is also a major producer of peaches, apples, and grapes, and boasts over 50 wineries.

Creative Opportunities on Farms

• Agritourism: Farms offer unique opportunities for agritourism, allowing visitors to experience farming firsthand and connect with nature.
• Farm-to-table dining: Chefs and restaurants are partnering with farms to create farm-to-table menus that showcase local ingredients and promote sustainable agriculture.
• Community gardens: Farms can provide land and resources for community gardens, fostering a sense of community and providing access to fresh produce.
• Educational programs: Farms offer educational programs that teach children about the importance of agriculture and the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I find farms near me?
A: You can use online directories, search engines, or ask local tourism bureaus for a list of farms in your area.

Q: Can I visit farms for free?
A: Some farms offer free admission, while others charge a small fee. Contact the farm directly for details.

Q: What are the best family-friendly farms?
A: Farms with petting zoos, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits are great options for families with children. Consider Space Farms Zoo & Museum, Johnson's Corner Farm, and Terhune Orchards.

Q: Where can I find farm-to-table restaurants?
A: Check online review sites or ask locals for recommendations. Some popular farm-to-table restaurants in New Jersey include The Farm at Thistledown, Agricola Eatery, and Roots Steakhouse.

Conclusion

New Jersey's farms offer a treasure trove of experiences for visitors of all ages. From exploring historic homesteads to picking your own produce, enjoying farm-to-table delights, and participating in educational activities, farms connect us with our food, history, and the natural world. As we embark on future endeavors, let us continue to support and celebrate New Jersey's thriving agricultural heritage.