Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor
There’s something about seeing where food comes from, or even being a part of the hard work that goes into harvesting it, that makes it taste even better. When you visit Unicoi County, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the source and take part in farming some of the most fertile land in the country.
Produce abounds at the foothills of the Appalachian mountains. Here, you could easily spend a day or entire vacation exploring our agritourism. Our bounty is evident at any of the region’s farmers markets, where you’ll find locally-sourced goods and friendly vendors who are excited to share their wares with you. The Unicoi Farmer’s Market & Community Yard Sale is held every Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., May-October. You’ll find more great farmers markets in the surrounding region, so don’t forget to explore Johnson City and Jonesborough’s markets as well. While in Jonesborough, check out Boone Street Market storefront for more locally-sourced food.
If you’d like to get closer to the source for the region’s delicious produce, head to Scott’s Strawberry & Tomato Farms Market to pick up fresh, locally-grown strawberries, tomatoes, green beans, corn, squash, zucchini, blueberries, bell peppers, and more. While you’re there, be sure to cool off with Scott’s Scoops—locally-made ice cream using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Once you’ve finished at Scott’s, stop in at the Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens, a 75-acre farm open year-round to the public. Here you’ll be able to explore beautiful gardens and ponds, observe wildlife and the farm’s peacocks and buffalo, try locally-baked breads, see historic Appalachian relics, and watch blacksmithing.
If you’re still hungry for more agritourism experiences, many farms in the region offer the option to harvest your own produce, including Blueberry Hill Farm, Buffalo Trail Orchard, and Gibson Berry Farm. You can also enjoy stay-and-farm experiences and farming educational programs at The Farm at Spring Creek and Still Hollow Century Farm.