Skip the airport: Farm escapes are booming near D.C.
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Hang with the herd at Black Barn Alpacas. Photo: Courtesy of Black Barn Alpacas
Farm tourism is booming — and there are a bounty of options within a few hours of D.C., whether you're looking to cuddle a cow, bond with some bison or feast on local wagyu.
Why it matters: You don't need a plane ticket for any of these wild adventures.
Get outside:
🐮 Sterling Hills Farm | Taylorstown, VA
~ 52 miles from D.C.
Adorable Highland cows are the draw here — such a big draw that tours and experiences book out far in advance (thanks, cow-fluencers).
🦙 Black Barn Alpacas | Finksburg, MD
~ 57 miles
This working alpaca farm keeps a packed calendar, from meet-and-treats with the animals to paint-and-sip sessions, yoga and kids camps — all centered on the fuzzy stars.
🥩 Ovoka Farm | Paris, VA
~ 61 miles
Farm tours, but make it luxe. This wagyu farm and winery offers tastings (next: April 30), dinners, wine experiences, and overnight stays in historic properties, with perks like a pool and an on-site chef.
- Staying in town? You can find their beef at Dupont's FreshFarm Market.
🐑 Imperial Farms | Sumerduck, VA
~ 67 miles
This USDA-certified Halal farm humanely raises beef, lamb, veal and goat. Families can meet the animals — including a resident ostrich — then grab a meal at Chai Khana, the Afghan family-run cafe serving kebabs, rice dishes and chai with pasture views.
🦬 Virginia Bison Co. | Culpeper, VA
~ 73 miles
America's national mammal takes center stage. Visitors can go on a farm tour, shop for bison cuts and homemade sausages — and even book a cabin stay on property to wake up with the herd.
🦪 The Oyster Bed at Merroir | Topping, VA
~ 141 miles
Not every farm is on land. Rappahannock Oyster Co. boasts "The Oyster Bed," an Airbnb steps from its oyster farm and destination-worthy restaurant, Merroir, overlooking the Rappahannock River. Check out the Virginia Oyster Trail and make it a weekend.
