Kaw Valley Farm Tour Showcases Kansas Farms and Heritage Sites

By Scout Nelson

The Kaw Valley Farm Tour (KVFT) will once again open the gates to small family and community farms across northeast Kansas on October 4–5, 2025.

Now in its 21st year, the tour has grown into one of the region’s most popular fall events, drawing thousands of visitors to discover local agriculture, history, and food.

The Kaw River Valley stretches across Wyandotte, Johnson, Jefferson, Douglas, Shawnee, Pottawatomie, Wabaunsee, Riley, and Geary counties, covering more than 170 miles from Junction City to Kansas City.

This year, 33 farms and six heritage sites will participate in the event. Visitors can explore cattle ranches, orchards, wineries, art farms, and historic schoolhouses while enjoying local products and interactive experiences.

Hilary Kass, coordinator of the KVFT since its founding in 2004, explained the purpose behind the event: “We wanted to find a way to support small family farms and open them to the public.” The collaboration began with the Merc Co-op, K-State Research and Extension, and Pendleton’s Country Market.

The 2025 tour also marks the return of heritage sites, with Constitution Hall and other landmarks offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Highlights include Compass Prairie Art Farm, eat8flowers, and the KC Farm School, all new additions to this year’s lineup. A corn maze at a Manhattan farm will honor country music star Lainey Wilson, adding a unique attraction for visitors.

Tickets are sold per vehicle, making the self-guided tour an affordable and family-friendly outing. Last year, more than 1,150 tickets were sold, bringing over 3,300 visitors to farms and markets across the valley.

The kickoff event will be hosted at Vinland Valley Nursery, featuring food from Saltwell Farm Kitchen and an immersive greenhouse walk-through.

With fresh produce, farm goods, wine tastings, art exhibits, and historic tours, the Kaw Valley Farm Tour offers something for everyone—from food lovers and history buffs to families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-steve-baccon