New York Dairy Farms with Unique Farm Stores You Can Visit
Exploring the rich dairy heritage of New York State means more than just consuming delicious milk and cheese. It's about visiting the very farms where these high-quality products are made, meeting the farmers who pour their passion into their work, and experiencing the unique farm stores that offer a variety of locally produced goods. From freshly churned butter to artisanal cheeses and homemade ice cream, these dairy farms provide a true farm-to-table experience. Visiting these farms allows you to see firsthand where your food comes from while supporting local agriculture. Here are some New York dairy farms with unique farm stores you can visit to taste and take home the best of local dairy.
Kriemhild Dairy Farms - Hamilton, NY
Kriemhild Dairy Farms is a small, farmer-owned business specializing in organic, full-fat, and cultured dairy foods. Their premier product, meadow butter, is made by slowly churning fresh sweet cream into an 85% butterfat delicacy. Using high-quality milk from their grass-fed cattle, their products are made in small batches daily, ensuring that the farm store is always stocked with farm-fresh products. You can visit the Kriemhild Kupboard, their self-serve store open daily from dawn to dusk. The store offers a delightful array of products, including gelato from Jones Family Farm, cured meats, cheeses, fermented goods, freshly bottled milk, honey, yogurt, and an assortment of meats. It's a treasure trove for food lovers, bringing the best of Central New York's farms to your table. Follow them on Instagram @kriemhilddairy.
Millbrook Beef and Dairy - Millbrook, NY
Millbrook Beef and Dairy is dedicated to reconnecting customers with agriculture, offering an immersive experience for visitors to learn about farm life. Their store boasts USDA-inspected black Angus beef and Berkshire pork, which are rotationally grazed for optimal health of both animals and pastures. Additionally, they offer pasture-raised chicken, various dry goods from local producers, and a whole line of unique flavored cheeses made with milk from their own cows. They work with McGrath Cheese Company, which comes to their farm three or four times a week to pick up milk and turn it into the cheese that they sell. Everything in their farm store is sourced from within 15 miles, ensuring the freshest local produce. At Millbrook Beef and Dairy's farm store, visitors can learn about their farming practices and the importance of supporting local agriculture while enjoying fresh, local produce. Follow them on Instagram @millbrookbeefdairy.
Collins Farm & Creamery - Rome, NY
At Collins Farm & Creamery, they strive to bring education and transparency to consumers. Their self-serve store is open every day of the year, including holidays, and offers products such as creamline milk, chocolate milk, cheese curds, and beef directly from their herd. They partner with local farmers to provide a variety of products such as pork, fresh eggs, sauces, cheeses, bread, and more. Many items rotate frequently, so if you see something you like, make sure to get it before it's gone. Additionally, the farm store features a variety of New York State spices and sauces, including Nelson Farms' famous Riggie Sauce, maple-based products, honey, and sourdough treats from Bread of Life. Payment is based on trust, with a cash box and Venmo options available, reinforcing the strong sense of community and integrity that the Collins Family upholds. Follow them on Instagram @collinsfarmandcreamery.
Mecox Bay Dairy - Bridgehampton, NY
Mecox Bay Dairy believes that "Happy Cows Make Happy Cheese!" Their farm store offers an array of artisan cheeses made from the rich, raw milk of their Jersey cows, which are known for their high-fat and protein-dense milk. Unlike pasteurized milk, raw milk retains all the natural probiotics and vitamins, resulting in cheeses with unparalleled flavor and nutritional benefits. Visitors can indulge in a variety of delicious cheese flavors, such as the creamy Atlantic Mist with its mushroomy, woodsy notes; and the nutty, buttery Mecox Sigit. In addition to their exceptional cheeses, the farm store features a selection of grass-fed beef and pastured pork, all raised without antibiotics. Available cuts include rib steak, porterhouse steak, sirloin steak, and beef jerky, as well as pork chops, tenderloin, and thick-cut hickory-smoked bacon. Mecox Bay Dairy also offers their famous Thanksgiving turkeys, which are raised on pasture and known for their fresh, juicy, and delicious meat. This dedication to quality and tradition ensures that each product is exceptional. Follow them on Instagram @mecoxbaydairy.
Myers Century Farm - Jeffersonville, NY
With a legacy spanning over 184 years, Myers Century Farm is committed to providing natural, wholesome, hormone-free dairy products. Their 24/7 self-service farm store carries A2A2 and creamline milk, along with heavy cream and half and half, ensuring a comprehensive selection of dairy staples. The farm store also offers an exciting range of ice cream flavors, including fun limited-edition varieties released for holidays and special occasions. Visitors can enjoy ice cream floats, sundaes, and pints with unique flavors like Lemon Raindrop and Lavender Honey. Seasonal favorites like the Very Berry American, which is Vanilla with blueberries and strawberries in a waffle cone, and the Peanut Butter Perfection Brownie Sundae, swirled with hot fudge and peanut butter and topped with brownie bits, add to the charm. Myers Century Farm's commitment to providing fresh, delicious, and ethically produced dairy products makes it a cherished destination for anyone seeking quality and gourmet ice cream flavors. Follow them on Instagram @myers_century_farm.
Sunset View Creamery - Odessa, NY
Sunset View Creamery offers visitors an escape to the country with a multi-generational, family-owned farm experience. As a New York certified raw milk dairy, they bottle fresh milk exclusively for their farm store. The farm store features a variety of raw and pasteurized milk cheeses, including cheddar, BelPaese, and their unique Heritage cheese, a Parmesan/Swiss blend they created. Visitors can also purchase fresh milk, locally sourced meats, free-range eggs, candies, maple syrup, honey, jams and jellies, breads, fresh veggies, coffee, tea, ice cream, and an assortment of handmade gifts. Charcuterie boards are available in to-go boxes, perfect for picnics or gatherings. Free cheese samplings and self-guided tours of the farm provide an immersive experience, allowing guests to connect with the land and the animals. The store is open daily from 10am to 5pm, and they accept cash, credit, and EBT, making it convenient for all visitors. Follow them on Instagram @svcreamery.
Tiashoke Farm - Schaghticoke, NY
Tiashoke Farm's store, located in a renovated 200-year-old barn, offers a wide selection of homegrown and locally sourced products. Featuring a variety of beef and pork cuts, including Tomahawk steak, Denver steak, brisket, and many more. The store also offers seasonal produce, pumpkins, sweets, antiques, and local farm treats curated by neighbors and local businesses. The charming ambiance with antique furnishings and decor provides a relaxing experience. Visitors can enjoy fun events like cookie decorating classes and weekly farmers markets, with recent events including a lively shindig with dancing, music, and dinner. The store operates with limited winter hours, opening only on Fridays and Saturdays 10am-3pm and by appointment for meat restocks and special orders, but expands hours at the start of every May. Conveniently located between Schaghticoke and Greenwich, it's an easy commute from New York's Capital District. Tiashoke Farm is a community hub where visitors can relax, learn, and enjoy the scenic beauty. Follow them on Instagram @tiashokefarm.
Shtayburne Farm Creamery - Rock Stream, NY
Shtayburne Farm Creamery is a family farm offering a wide range of artisan cheeses and homemade ice cream. Their farm store features aged and flavored cheddars, Monterey Jack cheeses, fresh cheese curds, and fresh quark, all made in small batches on the farm. Visitors can savor unique cheese flavors like Garlic Cheddar, Smoked Bacon Cheddar, Blueberry Monterey Jack, and Buffalo Wing Cheese Curds. The store also offers a selection of packaged meats, jams, honey, nuts, and crackers perfect for assembling charcuterie boards. A customer favorite is the cheese & ice cream flight, allowing you to sample a variety of cheeses and ice creams while enjoying the beautiful lake view. With 12 ice cream flavors, milkshakes, and seasonal drinks, there's something for everyone. The farm supports local small producers, ensuring every visit is both delicious and meaningful. With plenty of grassy space, it's an ideal outing for families and pets. Follow them on Instagram @shtayburnefarmcreamery.
Conclusion
Visiting these unique farm stores throughout New York State provides a delightful opportunity to enjoy high-quality, fresh dairy products while supporting local farmers and learning more about the farming practices behind the food that we consume every day. Each farm offers its own unique experience, making them wonderful destinations for a day trip or a family outing.