The Blue Ribbon Passport
Adventure awaits down on the farm.
The best way to sample the Commonwealth's downhome goodness is on a roadtrip through our agricultural hotspots. Discover country markets, classic fairs, and covered bridges as you wind your way along I-79 South near Pittsburgh, or head for Lake Erie and check out the wineries, farm markets, and lush landscapes along I-79 North. Out in Dutch Country, you can follow I-78 for mile after mile of abundance—farm tours, festivals, and everything else that gives our Commonwealth such a rich agricultural history.
The easiest way to get started on a farm-friendly roadtrip is with the Blue Ribbon Passport. It's your all-in-one pass to agritourism adventure.
With your Blue Ribbon Passport in hand, you'll discover fruit orchards, wineries, llamas, goats, organic produce, even buffalo. Yes, you'll still see farm machinery the size of dinosaurs, or maybe an Amish farmer plowing with a team of determined horses, but there's much more—and all you have to do is explore. Your Blue Ribbon Passport is your ticket. Download the PDF now! There's a host of interesting things to see and do in Pennsylvania's backyard, so spend less time driving and more time enjoying.
Here's a sample of the sorts of good things you'll find with your Blue Ribbon Passport:
Christmas Tree Farms
Taking the family out on a drive into the countryside to search for a live Christmas tree has become a beloved holiday tradition. And there's no place better than Pennsylvania to pick out a tree for your Christmas celebration. Whether you're looking for a Douglas fir or blue spruce, find your perfect tree at one of our many Christmas Tree Farms across the state. Buy a live tree, pre-cut tree or just cut your own! Happy hunting!
Fairs
If you need funnel cake—now!—you can find it at one of the state's many fairs and festivals. Explore the livestock exhibits, taste homemade pies and jams, and go for a ride on the Ferris wheel. Bring the whole family, or just walk through the park hand-in-hand for some old-fashioned fun.
Wineries
If your tastes are a bit more adult, witness the fine art of winemaking and sample its goodness at some of our state's most noteworthy wineries. Tour award-winning vineyards to see how wine is made, and taste the results. You can even bring a bottle home to relive the visit!
Farm markets
Partake of produce and other local foods straight from the field or kitchen at one of our local farm markets. Taste the freshest vegetables and fruits, picked at the peak of their ripeness. Supermarket goods simply can't compete.
Farm stays
Spend some quality time down on the farm at a cozy bed and breakfast—plan an overnight stay, a weekend getaway, or a week-long vacation. Wake up to the rooster's crow, or take part in farm chores for an authentic country experience. The kids will love petting the bunnies and goats; you'll love the change of pace, homemade delicacies, and country charm. Plenty of places allow you to pick your own pumpkins or other seasonal produce as well. And if an overnight excursion seems a bit much, give country living a try with a farm tour.
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