4 Farm-to-Table Finds in Ocoee, TN

Are you a fan of fresh, locally grown goodies and handcrafted Appalachian treasures? Well, you're in luck here at Welcome Valley Village! Our slice of Ocoee Country is all about celebrating local flavors and handcrafted wonders. Whether you're up for a visit to our nearby farms or eager to explore the farmers' markets, get ready for a bounty of farm-fresh treats and amazing artisan finds. Let's dive into the local goodness together!

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1. Appalachian Bee Farm

If you find yourself near the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Ocoee, Tennessee, you have to stop by Appalachian Bee Farm. This small company was founded in 2001 in the hope that they would be able to create products that contain beneficial needs straight from the beehive. 

Diane Reeves, founder and owner, has been a beekeeper for the last 31 years. She has devoted her life to learning and understanding the importance of bees and knew that she wanted to celebrate these contributions with others. This locally crafted artisan honey is delicious, taken straight from the beehive in the mountains of Southeast Tennessee. 

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The founding goal of this small business was to promote the benefits of all-natural ingredients in our daily lives. Besides the artisan honey, they offer a small variety of soaps, body balms, and lip balms, all crafted from all-natural ingredients. These products were intentionally crafted to cater to the needs of the consumer. They can all be found in-store and online, or they can be delivered straight to your doorstep! Additionally, you can find gift sets that contain a variety of soaps and balms to purchase in-store or online. 

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2. Apple Valley Orchards

Apple Valley Orchards is located in Cleveland, Tennessee, only a few miles from Welcome Valley Village. This orchard offers visitors an interactive experience, allowing them to learn about the history of and products produced in the orchard. 

It all began back in the ’60s with two apple trees and a vision. What started off as a hobby turned into a passion, and today, guests can visit the 15,000 trees that make up the orchard. The first apples were sold in 1972 and have only grown since then. Now, you can find a cider mill on the property, an apple house where the products are displayed and sold, a bakery, and a picnic pavilion. 

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When visiting during September and October, you can take a short wagon tour around the orchard. It is good to remember that apples are seasonal, so to provide the best-tasting apples, they can be picked and purchased until the end of February. This experience is perfect for families and friends who love apples and quality time together!

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3. Ocoee Creamery

This small farmstead creamery produces artisan cheese and promotes sustainable agriculture and healthy living for both its customers and animals. 

Mack and Anna Haynes love animals and the outdoors and pour everything they have into running the Ocoee Creamery. They love their goats as much as the customers, and you can even find their goat employee of the month on their website! The creation of their delicious produce is inspired by the culture of the Ocoee River community, which they are proud to be a part of. 

 You will find their goat cheese being made using artisan techniques and multiple cultures in order to produce its unique, savory flavor. They make a variety of different flavored spreads. Right now, you can purchase plain garlic and herbs, fresh basil, chupacabra (hot), honey and fig, goat feta, and chive jalapeño spreads. They also create new flavors seasonally, so check out their website to see their latest creations.

All of their products can be purchased in multiple farmers' markets, retailers, and restaurants in east Tennessee and parts of north Georgia. So whether you pass through for the night or vacation with us at Welcome Valley Village, you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to try this locally-made goat cheese! 

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4. Bakery on Main

Bakery on the Main is located near the Ocoee River in Benton, Tennessee. This cute cafe serves more than just baked goods. From salads and sandwiches to cupcakes and turnovers, they have it all! 

They also offer a light breakfast menu, a deli menu, a daily lunch special, take-home dinners, and dinner specials. For dessert, choose from a variety of custom cupcakes, cakes, and many other baked goods.

You can stop by most days of the week from 7 am to 6 pm, but check on their page to see any changes in the hours due to the holidays!

If you love your meal so much that you want to share it with everyone you know, you are in luck. They cater their delicious menu for all-sized events. They take special requests for the food to be picked up or catered. 

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So whether you’re a local seeking new gems or a guest at Welcome Valley Village, Ocoee County promises a variety of tastes and artisan experiences that will linger in your memory! Embrace the local spirit, support small businesses and let the journey through Ocoee’s culinary and artisan experiences leave you with a full heart and stomach! 

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