How It’s Made–A Locally Sourced Tour

Widely considered “America’s premier non-industrial food production oasis,” Polyface Farm has been at the forefront of grass-fed farming for 40+ years. They are dedicated to environmentally-friendly farming practices and the integrity of their process and products. It shows. Some of the region’s leading restaurants, bakeries, and caterers rely heavily on Polyface to serve their foodie clientele, from Reunion Bakery & Espresso in Staunton to Local Chop and Grill House in Harrisonburg. Check out which recognizable restaurants in Richmond, D.C., and Charlottesville are also Polyface partners.  

While you’re at the farm, you’ll absolutely want to take a tour. The farm which operates on the principle of transparency welcomes self guided tours anytime during business hours (closed on Sundays). They also offer full private tours which offer a deeper understanding of the farm’s commitment to sustainability and fostering the locally-sourced movement. Head on over tour schedules for more information. 

Want to try what the farm has to offer? Stop by their store for fresh produce, poultry, pork, beef, and pantry items. 

Literally, right down the road is Meadowcroft Farm. This place is a sixth generation family working farm. Run by Bill and Judie Croft, the Farm dates back to the mid 1700s and is a diversified operation consisting of beef cattle, sheep and crops. Walk around or ask for a tour!

Hungry? You can savour their fresh produce or purchase their homemade products like pickles, relishes, salsas, and jams onsite. You can also purchase their items to take home with complementary recipes. 

If you want the full experience, you can even stay the night at the historic Meadowcroft Inn. 

QUICK TIP

The Inn also has a restaurant onsite serving up 5 course tasting dinners showcasing the best of what the farm has to offer. If you want the full experience, these dinners are a must-reserve!

 

If you’re staying at the Inn and looking for an alternative option to unwind in the evening nearby, visit Skipping Rock Beer Co. open Saturday nights until 11PM. The spot has beers for every taste and typically offers locally sourced casual cuisine from a host of food trucks. 

If you’d like to check out all the action, you can also venture into Staunton for the night, view the town’s complete list of accommodations and eats!

Want a perfect backdrop for your Sunday? Walk the grounds of the Pebble Hall Wildflowers farm, a family-run operation a short drive from downtown Staunton and about thirty minutes from Meadowcroft Inn. Pick from acres of flowers and fresh herbs and don’t forget to stop by the Nature Museum. 

You can even plan your trip around your favorite flower with their monthly blooms guide.

Picnicking is strongly encouraged at Pebble Hall. If you’re looking for that local flare, you’ll want to swing by Old School Burger on the way to the farm. This place serves gourmet burgers out of a retrofitted school bus. Try their Cowboy Burger or PB&J Burger to go! 

No matter your destination, the Fields of Gold Farm Trail is hands down a great experience for any foodie and farm lover. There are so many innovative, beautiful, sustainable farms to explore. If you’d like to check out the three mentioned here, make sure to fully plan to experience Augusta County and Staunton while you’re in the neighborhood!