DUTCHESS COUNTY FARM FRESH LINK

FALL FAMILY FARM DAYS*
Saturdays: September 1, 8
Sundays:  September 2, 9

Reconnect to the region’s rich agricultural heritage when you pick up the Dutchess County Farm Fresh Shuttle at the Beacon Train Station for stops at Sprout Creek Farm (www.sproutcreekfarm.org) and Barton Orchards (www.bartonorchards.com).   

Take the time to tour Sprout Creek, a 200-acre working farm complete with cows, goats and more.  A model of sustainable agriculture, it’s also known for its hand-crafted cheeses produced by a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America.  Sample the creamery’s mouth-watering creations and enjoy a picnic of local Hudson Valley fare available from the farm market.

Next it’s on to Barton Orchards.  Pick your own fruits and vegetables or spend time enjoying the many family-friendly activities including hayrides, a petting zoo and live entertainment.  If you dare, explore their larger-than-life corn maze. 

Cap off the day with a trip to Main Street Beacon, home to a growing arts movement (www.beaconarts.org).  Visit the area’s many galleries, eateries and specialty stores, or learn about glass-blowing at Hudson Beach Glass (www.hudsonbeachglass.com), located in a historic 1890 firehouse. 

This special discount package is available beginning June 1, 2007 by calling Metro-North Railroad at 1-800-METRO-INFO (in NYC call 212-532-4900) or by visiting the Metro-North website .

The Dutchess County Farm Fresh Shuttle will stay with you all day, transporting you to the various locations and bringing you back to the train station for the return trip home.  Reservations for the Dutchess County Farm Fresh Link Shuttle are required in advance by calling 1-800-445-3131 and selecting "0" for an operator.  Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance. 

Once you've made your reservation, purchase your rail and shuttle ticket at Metro-North’s ticket office in Grand Central Terminal or any Metro-North station with a ticket office, at all full-service ticket machines (except Wassaic Station), or online through WebTicket.

Some activities may require an additional fee. 

* Dutchess County Tourism has the right to substitute a farm or related itinerary stop to ensure the quality of the overall program and the individual getaway experience.