Have you ever visited a farm where you can run an obstacle course and dine on fresh apple cider donuts while getting lost in a corn maze?
No? Well, how about checking out Hurds Family Farm, where family-fun entertainment meets serious agriculture.
A huge 120-acre farmstead an hour and a half from New York City (and one farm down from us!), Hurds is a fully functioning farm where you can dive into wholesome activities full of twists and turns, and take home delicious, fresh food you won’t find anywhere else.
The good vibes start at the top, with the Hurds themselves.
The farm is run by Phil and Susan Hurd, the 5th generation of Hurds to steward this land. The couple’s pride in the farm shines through in their friendly and warm demeanor.
Their son Charles, a professionally trained horticulturist, manages the orchards and their daughter Megan, a teacher with artistic talents, designs the corn mazes. The 7th generation of Hurds, Abigail, Scarlett, Suzy, and Cortlyn mostly enjoy the rides, but they also help their parents out when they can.
The Hurds family also includes the hardworking and support staff and, of course, knowledgeable farmers.
It all started with a few acres of land and a sawmill.
The first Hurds came to this area came in the 19th century to grow apples. The local climate, rich soil, and rolling countryside made this part of the Hudson Valley perfect for an orchard and a small farm. It was a success and each new generation of Hurds carried on the family business.
Things began to change in 1994 when Phil and Susan started throwing weekend festivals in their historic Dutch Barn. Word spread, and people began flocking to the Hurds to experience their imaginative approach to farm entertainment, or “agritainment,” a new kind of rural amusement combining farming education, fun and, of course, food.
The farm has since grown into a full-fledged “agritainment” destination, acclaimed in local media such as Hudson Valley Magazine, Time Out New York, and New York Family.
There are over 35 different things to see and do at Hurds. It can feel like going to a small amusement park and many activities require reservations, so be sure to plan ahead.
With 24 varieties of apples, you will find something sweet and crunchy to take home.
When the fruit is in season, from late August to late October, you can wander through the aisles of trees on your own or take a hayride to your preferred orchard. Be sure to order your apple-picking bag ahead of time to reserve your place.
Pumpkins show up around the same time as apples. You can find your future jack-o'-lantern or the raw ingredients for a homemade pie in their field of orange-colored gourds or pick one up from their on-site market.
Memories are also ripe for the picking at Hurds Family Farm, especially with their selection of experiences.
A few of our favorite festivities include:
The number of options can seem overwhelming. Use this interactive map of Hurds Family farm to get a lay of the land so you can plan your day.
Throughout the year, the Hurds host live bluegrass bands, unique seasonal events, and celebrations. You can find current information on their website, but keep an eye out for a few fan favorites:
They reserve Wednesdays and Thursdays for private groups and school field trips during the fall, but during the spring and summer, large groups can rent the grounds for events like weddings and family reunions.
With so much going on, you will probably work up an appetite. Hurds offers several ways to satisfy your cravings.
Generations of families exploring the Hudson Valley have enjoyed the fresh harvest and unique brand of farming festivities the Hurd Family offers. Karl Family Farms is proud to be part of this incredible community and support friends like Hurd's Family Farm.
If you visit, you can pick up some of our products in the Hurd' s Family market, or say hi to us! Pick up provisions from our farm stand by placing an order ahead of time. It's just a short drive away!