Farm in the fall

11 Best Farms in Cincinnati, Ohio for Family Fun

Welcome to the heart of the Queen City, where farm-to-table isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. Cincinnati’s farm culture is as down-to-earth as it gets, and we’re here to take you on a delightful journey through its fields, flavors, and friendly faces behind it.  

Cincinnati isn’t just skyscrapers and busy streets. It’s also a place where farms thrive, bringing a touch of the countryside to the city. Let’s take a journey through the farms in Cincinnati and the surrounding area to see what these different farms have to offer, what you can find there, and how they are making a difference to their local community. 

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, get ready to discover a different side of Cincinnati that’s a little bit country and a little bit city. Let’s dive in!

Farms in Cincinnati

Gorman Heritage Farm

Gorman Heritage Farm is a non-profit educational farm located in Cincinnati. Situated in the Evendale area, this farm has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The farm focuses on sustainable agriculture, environmental education, and preserving the region’s farming heritage.

Visitors to Gorman Heritage Farm can explore various aspects of farm life and agriculture. They offer educational programs and activities for both children and adults, including farm tours, gardening workshops, and nature walks. The farm is home to various animals, including chickens, goats, pigs, and sheep, providing opportunities for hands-on learning about animal husbandry.

Some farms in Cincinnati have petting zoos
Photo courtesy of Max S

One of the farm’s key goals is to educate the public about sustainable farming practices, organic gardening, and the importance of preserving local food traditions. They often host events and seasonal festivals, such as the Sunflower Festival and Fall Farm Fun Days, that showcase these principles and provide a fun, educational experience for the community.

McGlasson Farms

McGlasson Farms in Hebron, Kentucky, sits along Route 8 (AKA River Road). This has been a family-owned and run farm for six generations. 

Between July and November, they offer their homegrown fresh fruits and vegetables at a roadside stand. You’ll find these items already picked and available for purchase at the stand, but there are also opportunities for you to pick your own during specific seasons, including strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and, naturally, apples and pumpkins in the fall!

Photo courtesy of Kindel Media

They also offer fall school tours at the farm so that children can come and discover the farm’s highlights during the peak of the fall harvest season. Every student will get a pie pumpkin, a glass of fresh apple cider, and a guided walking tour of the apple orchard and the nearby pumpkin patch. These tours are available from September 1st to October 31, costing $7 per student.

Shaw Farms

Shaw Farms is an 1800-acre farm, where they cultivate field corn, soybeans, a wide variety of summer vegetables, pumpkins, gourds, and squash. 

During the summer, you can find locally grown produce such as melons, peaches, zucchini, tomatoes, green beans, corn, blackberries, plums, potatoes, peppers, and more. These items are available in the gift shop, providing families with the opportunity to purchase fresh vegetables. The store also provides Amish-made products such as ham, bacon, cheese, and canned fruits and vegetables.

When October arrives, families can immerse themselves in the fall season where visitors can enjoy hayrides, animals, and pumpkin-themed displays and decorations.

Activities on farms in Cincinnati
Photo courtesy of Ekaterina Belinskaya

Kinman Farms

Kinman Farms, located in Burlington, Kentucky, not far from Cincinnati, is a popular destination for families seeking a wide range of seasonal and farm-themed activities.

They offer flowers in the spring, fresh vegetables in the summer, host a festive autumn celebration with pumpkins, and offer Christmas trees during the winter season.

During the fall season, the farm offers a variety of attractions including a pumpkin patch where visitors can pick their own pumpkins, a corn maze, hayrides, a petting zoo with friendly farm animals, a play area for children, and delicious treats like caramel apples and kettle corn. 

Activities on farms in Cincinnati
Photo courtesy of Los Muertos Crew

Parky’s Farm

Parky’s Farm is a beloved family-oriented attraction within Winton Woods, part of the Great Parks of Hamilton County system. This farm offers various educational and recreational activities throughout the year. 

Kids of all ages can gain hands-on farm experience with seasonally offered farm programs available in spring and fall and day camps available in summer. Group programs are also available. You can learn more by calling 513-521-3276.

The farm features a petting zoo where visitors can interact with farm animals like goats, chickens, ponies, cows, and pigs. In addition to the animals, there are also playgrounds, a picnic area, and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for family outings and outdoor adventures. 

Activities on farms in Cincinnati
Photo courtesy of RDNE Stock Project

Beyond the animals and gardens, Parky’s Farm proudly showcases a diverse range of natural habitats. From open fields and meadows to ponds, wetlands, and woodlands, you’ll have the chance to explore a rich tapestry of native plants and wildlife.

Burwinkel Farms

Burwinkel Farms, located in Ross, Ohio, just outside the Cincinnati area, is a well-known family farm that has been serving the community for generations. 

This diverse farm offers a wide range of seasonal activities and fresh produce, homemade jams, and other local goods throughout the year. Their produce is delivered to neighboring markets throughout the tri-state area. 

In summer, the family hires local teens and young adults to help with various tasks around the farm, creating an atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie.

In the fall, the farm comes alive with activities such as a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, two corn mazes, a corn pool, a Halloween scavenger hunt, a sunflower walking path, and hayrides, making it a popular destination for those seeking autumn adventures. 

Activities on farms in Cincinnati
Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Tr Armstrong

There are many items for sale on the farm including more than 20 varieties of apples, fall décor, apple cider, homemade baked goods, and other seasonal items.

Turner Farm

Turner Farm is a nonprofit educational farm located in Indian Hill, a suburb of Cincinnati. This farm is dedicated to promoting sustainable farming practices, environmental stewardship, and education about agriculture and the food system. 

The farm’s produce is grown using organic methods, and they often have a farm market where visitors can purchase fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The farm’s commitment to sustainability extends to its efforts to protect natural habitats and promote conservation. It’s a valuable resource for those interested in learning about sustainable agriculture and enjoying the benefits of locally-grown organic food. 

The farm offers a variety of programs and activities, including U-pick flowers, cooking classes, and decorating crafts such as wreath making. Be sure to check out their events page for up-to-date information.

Tikkun Farm

Tikkun Farm is a unique and socially conscious farm that blends spirituality, healing, and sustainable agriculture. Founded with a vision of community, healing, and connection to the land, Tikkun Farm offers a range of programs and initiatives that focus on healing, social justice, and environmental stewardship. These programs may include workshops on mindfulness and spirituality, opportunities for communal farming and gardening, and efforts to address issues like food insecurity and environmental sustainability. 

Photo courtesy of Daniel Torobekov

Their Community Event Calendar showcases upcoming volunteer opportunities, info on Wisdom Wednesdays, and days and times their free market for feeding families is open.

While the specific offerings and events may vary over time, you can find the most current information on their website or by contacting Tikkun Farm directly to learn more about their mission and activities.

Simmons Farm

Simmons Farms is a family-owned property situated in Bethel, Ohio, southeast of the Cincinnati metro area. Their core values revolve around cherishing family time and sharing the wonders of nature with others. They cultivate crops that they enjoy growing alongside their children and sincerely hope that others can savor similar moments while picking produce with their loved ones.

Throughout the year, the farm offers a range of products, including jams, syrup, honey, apple drinks, fruit leather, blackberries, eggs, wool dryer balls, hand-cut soaps, bath salts and steamers, straw bags, trebuchet building kit (model size), and more. They also offer seasonal treats including peppermint stir sticks and spoons, dark chocolate-covered blueberries and strawberries, classic Ohio Buckeyes (with peanut butter), mint chocolate cake balls, pumpkin rolls, maple syrup, and honey lollipops, and much more!

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit them in the fall, where you can personally select pumpkins, go on a hay ride, try out the corn mazes, and even take a shot at Pumpkin Chunking using the trebuchet! 

Activities on farms in Cincinnati
Photo courtesy of Zen Chung

Before you go, be sure to check their Events page!

Hidden Valley Orchards

Hidden Valley Orchards, located in Lebanon, Ohio, just to the northeast of Cincinnati, is a delightful destination for those seeking a taste of the countryside and a variety of seasonal activities. This family-owned orchard and farm offers a range of experiences throughout the year. 

In the fall, visitors can enjoy apple picking, navigate through corn mazes, and take scenic hayrides. They often host pumpkin festivals and other seasonal events. The farm market showcases a bounty of fresh produce, including apples, peaches, and various fruits, along with homemade baked goods, jams, and other locally produced items. 

Photo courtesy of Nuzul Arifa

Visit their All Events page to find out what’s happening soon at the farm. They host various events, including live music, wine festivals, workshops like wreath making, trivia nights, burger nights, and Name That Tune.

The farm also boasts The Coop, which offers soft serve ice cream, and The Crate Room, a taproom for locally brewed beer. 

Burger Farm

Burger Farm, located in Newtown, Ohio, just outside of Cincinnati, is a cherished local farm and garden center that has been serving the community for generations. This family-owned farm offers a wide range of seasonal attractions and activities, making it a popular destination for families and gardening enthusiasts alike.

In the spring, Burger Farm’s greenhouse boasts a display of annual and perennial flowers, vegetable plants, herbs, and gardening supplies. It’s a go-to spot for those looking to kickstart their gardening projects. 

There’s plenty of fall fun at the farm as it transforms into an autumn paradise with a pumpkin patch where visitors can pick their own pumpkins, a corn maze with intricate designs, hayrides, and a variety of fall-themed activities. Burger Farm often hosts special events and festivals, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Activities on farms in Cincinnati
Photo courtesy of Vlada Karpovich

Beyond the plants and seasonal fun, Burger Farm is known for its commitment to the local community and for providing an enjoyable, family-friendly experience. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, farms in Cincinnati offer a unique and lively glimpse into the city’s agricultural heritage and sustainable future. These farms not only provide fresh, locally grown produce but also serve as educational hubs, connecting residents to the roots of their food and fostering a sense of community. 

As we’ve explored, Cincinnati’s farms are more than just places to grow food; they are living testimonies to the city’s commitment to preserving its agricultural traditions while embracing the future of sustainable farming practices. So, whether you’re a local looking to support local agriculture or a visitor seeking a taste of Cincinnati’s farm-to-table culture, exploring the farms of Cincinnati is a rewarding journey that promises to nourish both body and soul.