Inside a greenhouse, there are two large metal silos labeled 'Golden Grain' and a ventilation fan mounted on the wall above them. In the foreground, there is a dense green plant with small red tomatoes.

Connecting Neighbors Since 2004

For two full days, always the first full weekend in October, small family and community farms across six counties in the Kaw River Valley open their gates and invite visitors to see their operations, and share their local food & goods.

Started by a small group of Lawrence community leaders working to support the economic viability of regional farms, this yearly event offers something for everyone.

For over two decades, the Kaw Valley Farm Tour has been a favorite annual fall outing for thousands of people of all ages.

 

Explore the Farms
A rural landscape with a large tree in the foreground, green grass, a wooden fence, and rolling hills under an overcast sky.

The Kaw Valley Legacy

The Kansas River Valley, known locally as the Kaw Valley, has been the agricultural heart of Kansas for over 150 years. Before that, the Kanza (Kaw) tribe called this fertile river valley home, living sustainably off the land through hunting, fishing, and agriculture. They grew corn, beans, and squash (the "Three Sisters") and managed the prairie through controlled burns that maintained the ecosystem's health.

This fertile corridor stretches from the Flint Hills to Kansas City, creating some of the most productive and beautiful farmland in the Midwest.

Vineyard with lush green grapevines supported by wooden and metal posts under a clear blue sky.

What Makes Our Valley Special

The Kaw Valley's unique geography creates perfect growing conditions. Rich bottomland soil and reliable water from the Kansas River allow farmers to grow an incredible variety of crops. From traditional corn and soybeans to specialty items like wine grapes, lavender, and heritage vegetables, our farmers continually innovate while honoring time-tested traditions.

Building Community

The Kaw Valley Farm Tour does more than showcase farming—it strengthens the bonds between rural and urban communities. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for where their food comes from, while farmers gain loyal customers and lasting friendships. It's agriculture education at its finest, served up with Kansas hospitality.

Person holding a glass of dark beverage outdoors near a lake with green trees and blue sky in the background.
A rural scene with black cows in a grassy field, a row of wooden fence posts, lush green trees in the background, and a clear blue sky.
A close-up of a sunflower with a bee on its yellow petals, capturing the intricate details of the sunflower's center and surrounding green leaves.
Close-up of a brown horse with a white stripe on its face, being gently rubbed or petted on the face by a person at a stable or barn.
A beehive box in a field of tall grass with wildflowers, surrounded by trees in the background.

“Love visiting farms that are new each year. We come every year!”

“This was my first year going and I had so much fun, this is my new fall tradition.”

Tall, dried grass in the foreground, with a background of green trees and a cloudy sky.

“I've been going to this for 10+ years now, and for us, most of the fun is just driving around the area for a day.”

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