Our recent 12-state Agricultural and Heritage Tour in New England was a resounding success, bringing together 34 travelers on a memorable journey through diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks. With a focus on hands-on experiences and educational stops, participants had the unique opportunity to dive into the heart of New England’s agricultural practices, local heritage, and breathtaking sights.

Highlights of the Journey

For seven individuals, this tour marked their first adventure and participation with the Pendleton County Extension Service, and their enthusiasm added a fresh energy to our journey. The average traveler experienced five new states on this tour, making it a journey of discovery in many ways.

Our itinerary included fascinating educational stops, allowing participants to connect directly with the local industries that make New England unique. Among these stops were:

• An Oyster Farm: Travelers learned about oyster cultivation and the environmental importance of sustainable seafood.
• Cranberry Harvesting: A hands-on introduction to the cranberry bogs and the unique process of harvesting this iconic New England crop.
• Maple Syrup and Apple Cider Farms: Visitors gained insight into traditional syrup-making techniques and enjoyed a taste of locally produced apple cider.
• Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Headquarters: This was a favorite stop where we explored the world-famous ice cream-making process.
• A Historic Mansion Tour: Stepping back in time, we walked through the halls of an iconic New England mansion.
• A Saffron Farm: Visitors were captivated by this rare and valuable spice and learned about its cultivation and culinary uses.

Memorable First-Time Experiences

The tour was filled with “iconic firsts” that left a lasting impression on participants:

• One participant saw the ocean for the first time—an unforgettable encounter with the vast Atlantic shoreline.
• Four travelers experienced Niagara Falls for the first time, witnessing the power and beauty of this natural wonder.
• Seven participants tried oysters for the first time, expanding their palates with this quintessential New England delicacy.

Benefits of Travel

Beyond the landmarks, this tour demonstrated the powerful benefits of travel. Participants enriched their understanding of diverse agricultural practices, strengthened their appreciation for local cultures, and connected with fellow travelers. The hands-on experiences at farms and factories brought them closer to the source of many everyday foods, fostering a deeper appreciation for local producers and sustainable practices.

The group came away from the tour with lifelong memories, new friendships, and expanded horizons. With 100% of participants expressing a desire to travel with us again, this journey highlighted the profound impact of well-rounded, immersive travel.

This trip, organized by the Pendleton County Cooperative Extension Service, had a profound impact on everyone involved, providing a space for social connection, cultural appreciation, and personal growth. For many of the participants, it was a reminder that community—especially in times of personal hardship—can be the catalyst for renewal, joy, and meaningful change.

We look forward to more journeys like this, continuing to connect people with meaningful travel experiences that celebrate culture, history, and community.