PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — As many small farms face financial pressures, some Pennsylvania farmers are turning to agritourism and farm stays to create additional sources of income.
According to Airbnb, interest in farm-based travel experiences is growing, with searches for agritourism farm stays increasing fourfold. The company says the trend could help farmers supplement revenue as operating costs continue to rise.
“The typical small farm last year lost around $3,000 from just farming alone,” said Ivan Valladares, an Airbnb spokesperson. “But we found that on Airbnb, farm stays made about $8,000. So this is a real opportunity for folks to just make a little bit extra supplemental income.”
In partnership with the American Farmland Trust, Airbnb has launched a “Farm to Stay” grant program that will provide farmers and ranchers with up to $10,000 to help develop agritourism experiences.
The funding can be used to prepare or renovate properties for guests and support activities such as wine tastings and farm-to-table dinners.
For Val Fellenbaum, owner of Pleasant Pines Stables in Lancaster County, hosting guests has already become a valuable part of the business.
“But the Airbnb has really been profitable for us, because the horses have attracted wonderful guests,” Fellenbaum said.
She said grant funding could help expand offerings at the horse farm.
“So our grant money would be to think through two different things. Another horse to provide for horseback riding experiences. And for our families and kids to enjoy, and maybe possibly even a tiny home,” she said.
Pennsylvania’s agriculture secretary said farmers are finding ways to blend tradition and innovation to meet growing consumer demand.
Applications for the grant program will open in November. Airbnb said it will also offer informational webinars for interested farmers, although those sessions have already reached capacity.
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