Agritourism Summit

2026 Agritourism Summit & Pre-Summit Farm Tour

May 13 & 14, 2026

Antrim County & Traverse City, MI

Registration now open: https://events.anr.msu.edu/2026AgritourismSummit/

Discover how agritourism drives economic development while preserving rural character
Learn from industry leaders across cideries, distilleries, farm markets and more
Network with passionate professionals shaping the future of Michigan’s countryside

This year’s theme—Cultivating Opportunities Through Collaboration, Innovation and Policy—reflects our commitment to supporting vibrant, resilient agritourism across Michigan.

The Summit brings together farmers, entrepreneurs, municipal officials, and rural advocates to explore emerging trends, share best practices, and build meaningful connections that strengthen our state’s rural economy.

Pre-Summit Farm Tour & Soirée – May 13

Join us for a one-of-a-kind, full-day immersion into Antrim County agritourism. The curated Pre‑Summit Farm Tour includes behind‑the‑scenes experiences and tastings at:

King Orchards Home Farm
Cellar 1914
Ethanology Distillery & Spirit House
Providence Organic Farm Market & Café
Elk Rapids Pull Barn
Flintfields Horse Park (final stop & Soirée venue)

Tour registration includes round‑trip transportation from Grand Traverse Resort, lunch at Providence Organic Farm, locally crafted food and beverage samples, and entry to the evening Soirée. Space is limited to 54 participants.

The Soirée & Networking Event at Flintfields Horse Park features locally sourced food and beverages with a menu cultivated by James Beard Best Chef Midwest award-winning Jimmy Schmidt , two complimentary drink tickets, live equestrian jumper demonstrations, an agritourism expo, and opportunities to connect with industry leaders.

Agritourism Summit – May 14

Held in the Tower Ballroom at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, the Summit includes:

Welcome address from Ben LaCross, President, Michigan Farm Bureau
Keynote from Dr. Tim Boring, Director, Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development
Panel discussions with Michigan agritourism operators
Morning and afternoon breakout sessions covering marketing, finance, farm stays, zoning/ordinance strategy, Michigan Right to Farm Act basics, and realistic agritourism scenarios
Coffee, locally sourced lunch, and refreshments included

Full agenda and breakout session descriptions are available on the registration page.

Registration Options & Pricing

Program	Dates	Early Bird	Regular
Full Program: Farm Tour + Soirée + Summit	May 13–14	$225	$250
Agritourism Summit Only	May 14	$100	$125
Pre‑Summit Farm Tour + Soirée	May 13	$135	$150
Agritourism Summit + Soirée	May 13–14	$165	$175

Register here: https://events.anr.msu.edu/2026AgritourismSummit/

We encourage you to register early and share this opportunity with colleagues, partners, and community leaders who support the growth of agritourism in Michigan.

Cheers to celebrating Michigan Agriculture!

What is agritourism?

Agritourism encompasses entertainment and leisure experiences that contribute to a healthy lifestyle, strong family values and quality of life. Agritourism also focuses on finding the best route to encourage rural and regional economic development while preserving the landscape of each location. Agritourism cultivates strong local communities by connecting the tradition and heritage of area’s inhabitants with the best options for economic growth.

Who is agritourism?

Breweries -- Christmas Tree Farms -- Cideries -- Corn Mazes -- Creameries -- Distilleries -- Farm Markets -- Farm Stay -- Farm-to-Table Restaurants -- Festivals & Events -- Harvest Dinner -- Hayrides -- Living History Farms -- Maple Sugaring -- Meaderies -- Pumpkin Patches -- Wineries -- U-Pick Orchards & Farms

Opportunities and Challenges

Agritourism is a proven benefit for small farm viability. Agritourism may produce conflicts between local residents and farm-based enterprises in agricultural districts. Local government can address agritourism opportunities and protection of health, welfare and safety of local residents through balanced local zoning. Agritourism can be a positive revenue tool or intensive and destructive of rural character. These trends are colliding and threatening the economy and culture of rural Michigan.

We do a better job at preserving farmland, than preserving farmers. Don Coe, Former Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Commissioner

Two large, mature industries overlap & conflict with many rural life expectations.

Tourism contributed $3.1 billion to the state in 2022* and agriculture generates nearly $105 billion annually**, yet Michigan farmers are still struggling financially. These two industries both drive revenue and provide jobs for the state, but we must find the right balance between helping farmers thrive and bolstering local economic development, while preserving our rural and agricultural character.

Combining agriculture and tourism on a single farm property provides significant economic opportunity for both the farmer and the local municipality. This collaborative summit aims to plant seeds for future growth which can create a resilient, sustainable and more viable agritourism industry for generations to come.

*MichiganBusiness.org | “Michigan’s Tourism, Hospitality Industries Underscore Importance of Being Welcoming to All at Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism.”

**Michigan.gov | “Michigan Agriculture Facts and Figures”