Is Agritourism and Rural Tourism Are the Same?

By Alice Nichols

Agritourism and rural tourism are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but are they really the same thing? Let’s take a closer look at what each term means and how they differ.

What is Agritourism?

Agritourism refers to the practice of visiting farms, ranches, and other agricultural businesses for the purpose of enjoyment, education, and sometimes even hands-on experiences. Examples of agritourism activities include picking strawberries on a farm, taking a hayride through a pumpkin patch, or petting animals at a petting zoo.

The Benefits of Agritourism

Agritourism can be beneficial for both farmers and consumers. For farmers, agritourism provides an additional source of income and helps to diversify their business. For consumers, it offers a unique opportunity to learn about where their food comes from and to connect with the people who produce it.

What is Rural Tourism?

Rural tourism refers to tourism activities that take place in rural areas. This can include anything from hiking in a national park to staying in a bed and breakfast in a small town. The key feature of rural tourism is that it takes place outside of urban areas.

The Benefits of Rural Tourism

Rural tourism can have many benefits for both tourists and local communities. For tourists, it offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the beauty of nature firsthand. For local communities, it provides an opportunity to showcase their culture, history, and way of life while also generating income through tourism.

How Are They Different?

While there is some overlap between agritourism and rural tourism (for example, agritourism activities often take place in rural areas), they are not the same thing. Agritourism is a specific type of tourism activity that focuses on agriculture, while rural tourism encompasses a broader range of activities that take place in rural areas.

Examples of Rural Tourism Activities

Some examples of rural tourism activities include:

  • Visiting a local winery or brewery
  • Going on a guided nature walk or birdwatching tour
  • Taking a cooking class using local ingredients
  • Staying in a bed and breakfast or guesthouse

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, while agritourism and rural tourism share some similarities, they are not the same thing. Agritourism is focused specifically on agricultural activities, while rural tourism encompasses a broader range of activities that take place in rural areas. Both types of tourism can be beneficial for farmers, consumers, and local communities, and can offer unique and memorable experiences for tourists.