Now listen, I know what you’re thinking. When people from out of state think about Florida, they conjure up images of beautiful sandy beaches, world-famous theme parks, neon-drenched nightlife, “Florida Man,” and maybe that scene in Scarface where Tony talks about buying a tiger. We all know how that ended up.
Let’s face it: we all know Tony Montana would have had a much better time if he had gone to a citrus grove instead. That’s right—there’s more to Florida than just the best beaches in the country, the best fishing in the country, the best nightlife in the country, and the best theme parks in the country.
What if I told you that, hidden just a stone’s throw from the beaten path, lie some of the most charming, eclectic, and downright scrumptious agritourism gems known to humankind?
Florida’s agricultural scene is an under-appreciated treasure trove, ripe for exploration (pun not intended, but welcome). So sit back, relax, and take notes as I expertly guide you through the Sunshine State’s most delightful organic orchards, pick-your-own produce adventures, and—yes—actual vineyards!
U-Pick Berries (and a Whole Lot More)
If you love strawberries or just enjoy picking fruit, then a stop in the aptly-named Plant City is an absolute must.
Spivey Farms is a family farm that started back in 1969 as a tiny 5 acre farm, and it’s still family-run today. Head there during the height of berry season, and you’ll be treated to row upon row of luscious, ruby-red fruit just begging to be picked.
You may even encounter some wild peacocks that strut around like they own the place! Not like the ones you’ll find strutting around South Florida preening about their exotic SUVs and designer plumage—these kind have feathers and a purpose in their ecosystem.
After a long day in the sun picking plump strawberries, kick back and treat yourself to a homemade, fresh strawberry milkshake. Because you’ve earned it, champ.
Visiting South Florida instead of the Tampa Bay area? Check out The Berry Farm.
Tucked in an unexpected location just beyond the glitz and glamor of Cutler Bay, this farm is an oasis of agricultural abundance that offers a much-needed reprieve from the ceaseless hum of everywhere else in Miami. (Including The Gables, which everyone knows is just Miami wearing a monocle and a pair of $300 khakis.) You’ll breathe a sigh of relief as you trade the blaring EDM beats for the sweet chirping of birds and the faint rustling of leaves from row upon row of berry bushes.
At The Berry Farm, you’ll have the pleasure of picking your own juicy strawberries and sunflowers. Who wouldn’t want to indulge in a veritable cornucopia of sun-ripened goodness instead of queuing for hours in the scorching heat to get a table at yet another overhyped Miami brunch spot?
But don’t get too lost in your berry-picking reverie—there’s more to The Berry Farm than just its delightful fruits. Spend a while in the Farmer’s Market to take home some produce, preserves, and souvenirs, or enjoy numerous other activities for kids, adults—and even dogs! That’s right; The Berry Farm happily welcomes your canine companion to join in on the fun.
Wineries & Vineyards in Florida
Ahhh, the Californian wine has always been celebrated for its excellence. But who says wine country is reserved only for them? We’ve got our own Floridian wine, inspired by that same Californian excellence. (Get the reference? Either way, let’s move on.)
Make your way down to the country’s southernmost vineyards: Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery in Homestead. Here, you can sip on exotic fruit wines crafted from unexpected fruits like coconut, guava, and lychee. Better still, this place doubles as a brewery, so you can wash down your wine with some tropical-infused craft beer.
If you’re looking for a grape-to-glass experience that’s closer to Orlando, look no further than Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont. With its sprawling rows of grapevines and beautiful views of Central Florida countryside, this winery offers the perfect backdrop for a sunset toast to Mother Nature.
Farm-to-Table, Florida-to-Fork Adventures
Last but not least, your agritourism adventure wouldn’t be complete without indulging in some mouthwatering farm-to-table cuisine. If you’re tired of all the car-to-curb cuisine you’ve been eating on your road trip, why not try one of Florida’s many farmer’s markets?
In fact, why not venture off the tourist-leaden path altogether and make your way to the Local Roots Farmers Markets of Southwest Florida!
With multiple locations throughout SW Florida (Bonita Springs, Naples, and more) depending on the day, and offerings that showcase the best of what Florida’s rich agricultural scene has to offer, you’ll be sure to discover new flavors and unexpected combinations that will delight your taste buds.
With sun-ripened heirloom tomatoes, juicy citrus fruits, and other foods from local farmers who actually care about what they’re growing, you can celebrate the bountiful harvest that Southwest Florida’s land and sea have to offer. And since you’re supporting local farmers and artisans, you can feel genuinely good about every bite and sip you take.
(Unlike the Auntie Starchy’s “Cheese” Danishes you’ve been wolfing down at every rest stop on I-75.)
Final Thoughts
Well, what a ride it’s been! We’ve picked strawberries, sipped exotic fruit wines, and indulged in mouthwatering farm-to-table cuisine—all while dodging peacocks and playfully roasting my hometown with some good-natured, well-deserved ribbing.
Florida isn’t just a place to soak up the sun, down some overpriced mojitos, and get lost in a crowd of tourists. It’s also home to some of the most delicious, unique, and underappreciated agritourism experiences that you’ll find anywhere in the country. But most importantly, it’s a place where you can enjoy some damn good food and wine.
Comments