The 2026 Agritourism Summit brings together farmers, entrepreneurs, municipal leaders and rural advocates to cultivate new ideas, share best practices and spark lasting collaborations

Save the Date: 2026 Agritourism Summit & Pre-Summit Farm Tour

May 13 & 14, 2026

Antrim County & Traverse City, MI

 

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

The 2026 Agritourism Summit will feature educational sessions and networking opportunities, the sharing of information and best practices from a variety of sectors—farmers, municipal officials, agritourism businesses and other community leaders with an interest in rural entrepreneurship and economic development. Content will focus on tools for agritourism businesses, municipalities and entrepreneurs.  

The day before the Summit, join us in the heart of Antrim County for a once-in-a-lifetime pre-summit tour that celebrates the vibrant intersection of agriculture, tourism, and community. From orchards to craft spirits, the Farm Tour showcases the best of Michigan’s rural innovation. The day ends with the Soirée & Networking event, an unforgettable evening at Flintfields Park, home of Traverse City Horse Shows

 

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”