How about this weather? It is January or mid-May? Either way, it’s beautiful out. So beautiful, in fact, that we’re thinking about breaking our no-walking-unless-absolutely-necessary rule. So grab your overalls and toss some hay in the back of the pickup truck because we’re heading to the heart of the Valley’s farm country.

Located in the far Southeast Valley suburb of Queen Creek, Schnepf Farms (pictured) is a sprawling slice of country charm, as well as one of AZ’s oldest family-operated farms.

First opened in 1941, this hoedown hideaway houses plenty of kid-friendly fun, including hay rides, roller coasters and carousels, as well as a rideable miniature train. However, there’s plenty here for big kids, including foodie fun such as u-pick orchards and pesticide-free garden patches. Plus, every month or so they host ‘farm-to-farmtable’ dinners featuring house-grown produce and locally-sourced meats, whipped up by top Valley chefs and served in the middle of a blooming peach orchard.

Best of all, Schnepf Farms is located just a stone’s throw away from another sun-ripened sanctuary. Named the Queen Creek Olive Mill, we’ve already sung its praises here. However, all you really need to know is it’s home to a Tuscan-inspired (and seriously yummy) eatery named del Piero. Here,  you can enjoy gourmet sandwiches, paninis, soups, salads, wine, gelato and specialty coffees, either indoors or outdoors under the olive trees.

Savor it now, before the summertime broiler turns back on for the next nine months or so.

Image via Foskett Creative Photography

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