Owning a weekend home in the Hudson Valley has enabled my husband and me to travel throughout the region sharing incredible experiences, while creating new and magical memories. It’s opened our eyes to a world full of beauty, warmth, kindness, serenity, creativity, history, and endless possibilities. There’s no want for unique, fun places to visit — everything from historical landmarks and museums to cideries, wineries, breweries, scenic trails, antique shops, art galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, and so much more!

One of my favorite things to do has been to visit different types of farms. Having grown up in the city and suburbs, my idea of a farm was the generic “Old McDonald” version. I thought all farms were the same — cows, sheep, horses, maybe some chickens and ducks, and endless fields of fruit and vegetable crops. Was I wrong! Visiting a variety of Hudson Valley farms has taught me that no two farms are alike — some include cideries, restaurants, music venues, markets, gift shops, hay rides, games — a potpourri of experiences!

While researching farms for this column, I came across the DuBois Farms in the hamlet of Highland. Due to recent water issues at my home, I was unable to stay there and couldn’t visit the farm in person, so I resorted to an enjoyable virtual tour. This farm is amazing, and I look forward to visiting it soon!

DuBois is not just a farm, but a combination farm market, pizzeria, winery, brewery, tavern, bakery, and café. There are so many tasty treats, and you can pick your own apples, peaches, strawberries, nectarines, plums, grapes, peppers, eggplants, tomatoes, pumpkins, flowers and more.

Owners David and Jolee DuBois, two of the few first-generation farmers in the Hudson Valley, bought a 54-acre farm 20 years ago and saved it from being sold for development. Their goal was to keep the small farm industry alive. With the replanting of orchards and vineyards, revitalizing old fruit trees to produce some older more desirable fruit varieties, and erecting outbuildings and animal areas mindful of colonial times, they created a blissful, picturesque setting reminiscent of Olde New England. They’ve also recently expanded the farm by 15 acres, planting more fruit and Christmas trees.

Intrigued by what I read, I decided to take a virtual tour titled “DuBois Farms and Tavern/Walkway Over the Hudson/What To Do With Kids Hudson Valley.” The video opens with a young family of five walking through the entry gates of the farm. It’s a beautiful, clear day and the farm is filled with visitors. The family heads over to the rabbit cage where two black bunnies are munching on lettuce. From there the children sprint to the Tiny Town playground, where small colorful buildings are scattered about. The children enter a cheery blue playhouse and stand behind a wood serving bar where they pretend to sell refreshments. Next, they enter a miniature barn for a brief visit, then spot a wood sculpture tractor and climb onto it, pretending to take it for a spin. There’s a small blue jailhouse with bars on the windows a short distance away, so off they go to explore!

Next, the family sits down at a picnic table and enjoys cheeseburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches and cherry cider before resuming their exploration of the farm. They walk by a fenced-in cow pasture, where two brown and white cows are resting on the grass, then proceed to goat territory. They joyfully pet these warm, friendly creatures before taking a leisurely walk up the lush green hill where they pass a cabbage patch, then pick peaches and honey crisp apples from the trees in the fruit orchards. Their tour ends with a visit to the farm market where the children’s mother points out different items that catch her eye. Among the tasty delicacies sold here are canned peaches, apple butter, pumpkin butter, chunky salsa, honey, and apple cider… sounds yummy!

DuBois Farms offers an enjoyable and educational experience where children and adults can enjoy a sense of serenity while picking fruits and vegetables, interacting with farm animals, playing in Tiny Town, and strolling through the picturesque grounds. To learn more about the farm and its upcoming events visit duboisfarms.com/pick-your-own/. After viewing the video, DuBois Farms is definitely a must-see on my to-do list. It’s a place that embodies much of what is so special about the Hudson Valley region.