Recently, agri-tourism has grown in popularity, especially in our local region. From must-visit farmers markets like those of Boyne City, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs to year-round, activity-laden farm settings like Pond Hill Farm, Bear Creek Organic Farm, and Coveyou Scenic Farm, Northern Michigan is experiencing an economic renaissance in all things home-grown and down-to-earth.
The agri-tourism sector is blooming, as it were, and nestled right in the thick of it is the one and only Lavender Hill Farm in Boyne City. Yes, a hyperbolic claim—the Horton Bay Road farm is not the only lavender farm in existence—however, it is the largest one in Michigan, which makes it something to write home about and a must-see when visiting the Petoskey Area.
Established in 2003, Lavender Hill Farm has firm roots within the community, but in the last decade, much has changed at the beloved farm. Purchased by a trio—husband and wife, Bill and Erin Mansfield and friend Rita Robbins—in 2015, the farm has since experienced healthy and hefty development, including restoring a century-old barn, increasing the lavender plants from 4,000 to roughly 13,000, implementing extensive programming, and erecting a beautiful visitors center in 2023.
Due to its location, scenic sprawl, and overall atmosphere, Lavender Hill Farm is a regular site for weddings, private events, fundraisers, photoshoots, corporate gatherings, and more. However, for area visitors looking to explore and have an organically curated agri-tourism experience, allow me to share why visiting Lavender Hill Farm is a must.
Beautiful Grounds to Explore
Being open to the public, free of charge, the farm sees over 100,000 visitors each year who are all invited to explore its fabulous features and amenities.
Walk the classic seven-circuit labyrinth constructed with lavender plants; stroll the scenic trails that delve into the property’s diverse terrain—be prepared for hills on this mile-plus walk; check out the fun fairy garden and its miniature structures and vibrant flora—a great activity for families; claim a bench or a patch of grass and breathe deeply; and curate the perfect selfie with the seemingly endless backdrops—there’s one at practically every turn!
If you don’t feel like walking the farm, you can buy a ticket for a golf cart tour, an option offered seven days a week during the summer season. The farm’s 33 acres are home to 30+ varieties of lavender, and during the 30-minute golf cart tour, visitors get a crash course in all things lavender-related, including honeybees, flowers, cultivation and harvesting techniques, and some insider details on what it takes to distill the fragrant plant. Also, during peak bloom—typically July—U-Pick Lavender is available so you can bring a piece of the farm home with.
Another golf cart tour option is taking one of the Owner Tours, an in-depth 60-minute guided experience, which includes samples of lavender-flavored nibbles and beverages. The Owner Tours are only available with advance ticket purchase.
A Spot to Shop & Snack
Inside the 13,000-square-foot visitors center, which doubles as a gift shop and workshop space, you’ll find gifts and treasures featuring lovely lavender. The shelves, racks, and displays are filled with farm apparel and merch (hats, t-shirts, stickers, etc.), lotion, soap, chapstick, lavender essential oil (the farm’s flagship product), lavender-infused honey, chocolate, bitters, and spirits (courtesy of Mammoth Distilling and Gypsy Distilling), candles and other aromatherapy goodies by Boyne City-based June Apothicarie, and tons of other souvenir and gift-giving items to share and enjoy.
In 2024, a coffee cart was added to the premises, offering lavender lattes, matchas, Americanos, and iced and hot teas. So not only do you get to smell, experience, and immerse yourself in the plant, you get to ingest it in a variety of ways. Other botanically flavored options include lavender shortbread cookies from Crooked Tree Breadworks, ice cream, and lavender lemonade fizz soda.
Activities to Attend
Aside from being a functioning lavender farm and local agri-tourism attraction, Lavender Hill Farm is known for its event lineup, which includes concerts, movie screenings, dining experiences, and educational opportunities.
The Series at Lavender Hill Farm, started in 2018, features live musical performances in the restored barn throughout the summer season.
“Concerts are definitely front and center here,” said co-owner Bill Mansfield. “During the summer, we host a 10-concert series, with shows often selling out.”
Proudly presenting a wide array of bands and musicians that represent unique and engaging styles and genres, The Series hosts performers from around the country and beyond. Concert-goers usually arrive early with picnics to enjoy the scenery before taking their seats in the 1920s historic barn for the show, so I recommend following suit to get the full experience.
The barn also serves as a theater for family-friendly film screenings, featuring animated favorites, beloved musicals, and fun flicks. Again, attendees typically show up early to hang out and play lawn games, and theater seats are on a first-come, first-served basis, with snacks and beverages available for purchase. If you’re 21+ and have a valid ID, you can bring your alcoholic beverages, but no glass containers.
Visitors can even make a reservation for a unique culinary experience of dining amongst the lavender during peak bloom. On Tuesday evenings in July, dining guests receive a four-course meal created by local culinary artists at a private pop-up table while they soak up the warm summer air and the relaxing aroma of the lavender rows. Also in July, the farm hosts Sunday brunches for those who want to wrap their weekend with a well-laden grazing platter.
Inside the visitors center, beyond the gift shop area, you will find workshop spaces that regularly host classes and activities for all ages. The farm has strategically built up its seasonal and year-round programming in recent years to resounding positive feedback.
“We’ve got a bazillion different classes and opportunities,” Bill added. “So there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
From meditation and yoga to Paint & Sip evenings, baking, printmaking, weaving, and wreath-making, there’s something for everyone to try. And with a blossoming list of how-to classes on growing, harvesting, distilling, and using lavender, you could become an expert in agri-tourism, too.
A Distilled Wrap-up
Lavender Hill Farm, a popular destination and multi-faceted experience, checks all the agri-tourism boxes with its recreational, educational, and entertainment programming, so much so that it’s an annual stop for many.
“Lavender Hill Farm is a Northern Michigan staple for me,” shared Ella Niles, 20, a seasonal Northern Michigan resident. “With the freedom to wander through the fields of purple, the variety of lavender treats available, and the endless picture spots, these keep me excited to visit the farm every summer. From lavender drinks to lavender lotion, there are so many things to enjoy, and the lavender ice cream is a must-try item!”
Over the last decade, Lavender Hill Farm has flourished, broadening its offerings, community engagement, and lavender output, and they’re always on the lookout for the next great thing to add to their lineup. The Lavender Hill Farm team loves all things lavender, creative, and fresh, so consider renting the space or hosting an onsite event, or just take a walk on the property—it’s a Petoskey-Area must that lives up to the agri-tourism hype.
About the Author: Alex Dailey is a long-time Northern Michigan resident who happily calls Petoskey home. When she isn’t at her computer writing and editing, you can find her taste-testing craft cocktails, patronizing downtown shops (especially bookstores), and participating in as many local literary events as possible. She looks forward to sharing her Petoskey Area favorites with you!