From Farm to Experience: Building Agritourism Success - In Person

Discover how agritourism can transform your farm into a thriving, diversified business. Shipley Farms, a 153-year-old family farm in the Western North Carolina mountains, has evolved from a legacy of Hereford cattle, sheep, and tobacco into a modern, value-added operation centered on their Signature Beef brand. Since 2014, the family has successfully integrated tours, events, hospitality, and lodging to support their brand and generate supplemental income. In this unique workshop, participants will join one of Shipley Farms’ standard tours and experience agritourism in action. The tour will be followed by an open, candid discussion covering what’s worked, what hasn’t, and key lessons learned along the way. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, this session offers practical insights and real-world inspiration to help you grow your own agritourism venture.

Speaker(s): Gray Shipley, Shipley Farms

Co-Sponsor(s): EmPOWERing Mountain Food Systems and NC State Extension

This workshop will be held at Shipley Farms located at 1699 Linville Creek Road, Vilas, North Carolina - look for signs for parking and farm store.

Fee: No Cost