Illinois boasts a rich agricultural heritage, offering a diverse range of locally grown produce and farm-raised products. The state's fertile soil and favorable climate make it an ideal place for farming, supporting the cultivation of various crops and livestock. Here are some highlights of what Illinois agriculture has to offer:

Major Crops in Illinois

Illinois is known for its corn and soybean production, which are significant parts of its agricultural economy. The state also produces wheat, oats, and hay. Additionally, Illinois is known for its production of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as pumpkins, apples, and melons. These Illinois-grown crops are cultivated throughout the state, contributing significantly to Illinois's agricultural economy.

Local Farmers' Markets in Illinois

Illinois is home to numerous farmers' markets where you can find fresh, locally grown produce. Popular markets include the Green City Market in Chicago, the Urbana's Market at the Square, and the Downtown Bloomington Farmers' Market. These farmers' markets in Illinois provide a direct connection between consumers and local farmers, ensuring you get the freshest Illinois produce available.

Illinois Farm-to-Table Initiatives

Illinois has a growing farm-to-table movement, with many restaurants and cafes sourcing their ingredients from local Illinois farms. This initiative supports Illinois agriculture and ensures that customers enjoy the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. Notable farm-to-table restaurants in Illinois include The Publican in Chicago, Epiphany Farms Restaurant in Bloomington, and American Harvest Eatery in Springfield.

Agrotourism and U-Pick Farms in Illinois

Agrotourism is a significant part of Illinois's agricultural landscape. Visitors can enjoy U-pick farms where they can harvest their own fruits and vegetables, providing a fun and educational experience for families. Notable U-pick farms in Illinois include Eckert's Country Store and Farms in Belleville, Stade's Farm & Market in McHenry, and Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch in Champaign.

Illinois Livestock and Dairy

In addition to crops, Illinois is known for its livestock production, including cattle, hogs, and poultry. The state's dairy farms produce fresh milk, cheese, and other dairy products. Buying locally raised meat and dairy in Illinois ensures high quality and supports Illinois farmers.

Organic and Sustainable Farming in Illinois

There is a growing trend towards organic and sustainable farming practices in Illinois. Many farms are adopting methods that reduce environmental impact and promote biodiversity. Look for certified organic products and farms that follow sustainable practices when shopping locally in Illinois.

Seasonal Produce in Illinois

Illinois's growing season allows for a wide variety of seasonal produce. In the spring, look for Illinois asparagus, lettuce, and strawberries. Summer brings Illinois sweet corn, tomatoes, and cucumbers, while fall offers Illinois pumpkins, squash, and apples. Winter markets in Illinois often feature hardy greens and root vegetables.

Supporting Local Agriculture

Supporting local agriculture in Illinois not only provides you with fresh and delicious food but also strengthens the local economy and promotes sustainable farming practices. Explore the diverse offerings of Illinois's farms and enjoy the bounty of this agriculturally rich state.

Submit Your Farm

The purpose of this site is to help customers find and buy directly from local farms. All fields are optional, so you only need to fill out the ones you want to. If the form is not working for you, email eatlocal@usfarmtrail.com with your farm's information and we will add it to the maps.

Find Local Farms in Illinois

Farms in Illinois

Dearing Country Farms

Polsgrove Hill Diversified Farm

The ZeeLee Cattle Company

Abundant Pastures

SOAR Farmers Market

Theodora Farms

Braeutigam Orchards

Heartway Farms

Bronkberry Farms & Greenhouse

Rustic Road Farm

Red Flower Organics

Homestead Meats

Green Earth Harvest

Rudy's Bees and Honey

Nature's Choice Farm

South Chicago Farm, Urban Growers Collective

Songbird Hill Farm, LLC

Lincoln Square Farmers Market

All Grass Farms LLC

Main Street Pastures

Pasture Grazed

Wanda Farm

Irish Grove Farms, Inc.

Hephzibah Farms

All Grass Farms LLC

Hasselmann Family Farm

Brass Family Farm - Walnut Grove

Nadig Family Farm - Grass Fed Beef & Lamb, Organically Fed Pork

Kinwood Farm

Meadow Haven Farm

Grateful Graze Grass Finished Beef, Chicken, Pork

Sorrels Beef Company

Prairie Creek Pastures

Hufendick Farm Market

Graized | Grassfed Beef

Flying S Beef

Dierks Farms Grass Fed Beef

Bane Family Meats - Farm, Grocery Store, "Good Food" CSA

312 Farms & Carriage Company

Hofherr Meat Co.

Tsedah Farms

Castle Verde

The Talking Farm

CannaCoop Homestead

Three Angels Family Farm

Tomato Mountain Farm

Bornemann Flower Farm

Tulip Tree Gardens powered by Village Farmstand

Summer woodstock farmers market

Winter Woodstock Farmers Market

Kirby Farms Produce

Bloom Ridge Farm (u-pick flower farm)

Krueger's Orchard

Chicago Patchwork Farms

Marcoot Jersey Creamery

Fresh Pasture Farms

Terra Vitae Farms

Slagel Family Meats

Kendall Meat Company

Sages Meat Market

Wheeler Beef

Timberfeast: Illinois Grass-Fed Meats

Grass Fed Eats

FernDell Farms

Homegrown Meat Company & Ice Cream Shop

Cedar Valley Sustainable Farm

Pasek Farms

Barrington Natural Farms

Firefly Hollow Farm

Bray Grove Farm

Wurst Kitchen

Barn Again Beef

Drover's Trail Natural Farms

Sucilla Farms

Heritage Prairie Farm Online Market

Ed and Judie's Egg Farm

Draper's Raw And Local Honey

Wanderin’ Barefoot Farm