At a Glance – One of the greatest joys of staying at Valley Springs Farm Bed & Breakfast is the chance to experience Sauk County through its food—fresh, seasonal, and deeply connected to the land and people who grow it. The Driftless Region has long been known for its rich agricultural heritage, and today that tradition thrives in vibrant farmers markets, small family farms, and local producers who pour their passion into every harvest. For guests who love exploring a place through its flavors, Sauk County offers a delicious and memorable journey.

Locally made jams, pickles, applesauce, and other farm products at a farmers market stand.

🥕 A Region Rooted in Local Food

Sauk County’s rolling hills and fertile valleys create ideal conditions for smallscale, sustainable agriculture. Many area farms—some multigenerational, others newly established—focus on organic practices, regenerative methods, and communitysupported food systems. When you visit a local market or farm stand, you’re not just buying produce; you’re supporting families who care deeply about the land and the health of their community.

Guests at Valley Springs Farm often tell us that tasting local food helps them feel more connected to the Driftless Region. Whether it’s a justpicked tomato, a loaf of artisan bread, or a jar of smallbatch honey, each bite carries the story of the place it came from.

🛒 Farmers Markets Worth Exploring

Sauk County is home to several lively farmers markets, each with its own personality and seasonal offerings. They’re wonderful places to meet local growers, sample regional specialties, and pick up treats to enjoy back at the farm.

Baraboo Farmers Market

Held on the historic courthouse square, this produceronly market is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. You’ll find everything from fresh vegetables and pastureraised meats to cut flowers, baked goods, and handcrafted items. The Wednesday & Saturday market buzzes with energy, music, and community spirit.

Reedsburg Farmers Market

Located in the heart of downtown, the Reedsburg market offers a welcoming mix of produce, homemade foods, and artisan products. Available on Sunday mornings & Thursday afternoons, it’s a great stop for guests exploring the 400 State Trail or spending the day in town. Fridays from 10 am – 2 pm, the Reedsburg Area Medical Center hosts farmers & artisans.  Stop by to shop flowers, produce, baked goods and other locally made goodies!

Sauk Prairie Farmers Market

Drive, bike, walk, run or skip on Saturdays to Meyer Oak Grove Park for the Meyer Oak Grove Market! We will have all of the goodies needed for your week and even a few treats that are more of a want. This market features a wide variety of vendors offering seasonal produce, eggs, cheese, maple syrup, and more. It’s an excellent place to stock up for a picnic or to discover new local favorites.

Spring Green Farmers Market

A bit farther west but well worth the drive, this market reflects the artistic and agricultural spirit of the Spring Green community. Expect fresh produce, specialty foods, and plenty of Driftless charm. The Spring Green Farmers Market is a year round outdoor market offering seasonal produce, local meats, baked goods, and more. May – Oct hours are 9am-Noon. Nov – April hours are 10-11am. They are located outside of the Spring Green Community Library.

Valley Springs Farm beef snack sticks and summer sausage products.

🍯 Local Producers You’ll Love

Beyond the markets, Sauk County is rich with small farms and food artisans who welcome visitors. From creameries crafting Wisconsin cheese like Carr Valley Cheese to orchards like Jasper Apples offering seasonal fruit, the region is full of opportunities to taste something truly local. During your stay, the Valley Springs Farm store will be open for purchasing 100% grass fed beef products and local foods to take home. 

Immerse Yourself in Heritage Kitchen Skills

Learn the lost culinary arts of “putting food up” and the food artisan skills of pressure and water bath canning, fermenting, making meals from scratch, baking and cooking from whole foods and jam/jelly making. We invite you to make memories, eat great food and gain skills you really can use! Classes can be added to your stay.

🌻 A Delicious Addition to Your Stay

Exploring Sauk County’s local food scene is a perfect complement to your time at Valley Springs Farm. Spend the morning at a farmers market, enjoy an afternoon drive through the countryside, and return to the farm with fresh finds to savor on the porch as the sun sets.

If you’d like recommendations or help planning a local food adventure, we’re always happy to share our favorite spots. In Sauk County, good food isn’t just something you eat—it’s something you experience.

🌾 Frequently Asked Questions

What farmers markets are closest to Valley Springs Farm?
Several wonderful markets are within a short drive. Baraboo Farmers Market (Wednesdays & Saturdays) and Reedsburg Farmers Market (Sundays & Thursdays) are the closest, with additional options like the Sauk Prairie Market on Saturdays and the yearround Spring Green Market. Each offers its own personality, seasonal produce, and Driftless charm.
Can I bring my farmers market finds back to the Bed & Breakfast?
Absolutely. Guests love bringing back fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, and flowers to enjoy on the porch or in the kitchen. We’re happy to provide fridge space or help you store items during your stay.
Are there local food or farm experiences available during my visit?
Yes! Valley Springs Farm offers heritage kitchen classes—canning, fermenting, baking from scratch, and more. You can also explore nearby orchards, creameries, and small farms that welcome visitors. Many guests pair a morning market trip with an afternoon farm adventure.
What local foods should I try while I’m in Sauk County?
Seasonal produce is always a highlight—tomatoes, sweet corn, berries, greens, and apples. Driftless artisans also shine with pastureraised meats, smallbatch honey, maple syrup, artisan breads, and Wisconsin cheeses like those from Carr Valley Cheese. Every season brings its own delicious surprises.
Does Valley Springs Farm sell any local products onsite?
Yes! Our farm store is open during your stay and features 100% grassfed beef from our herd along with curated local foods from trusted Sauk County producers. It’s a great way to take a taste of the Driftless Region home with you.

About the Author

Dorothy Harms.
Dorothy Harms

Co-owner, Valley Springs Farm · Wisconsin AgriTourism Advocate

Dorothy Harms is a fourth-generation farmer, certified Master Food Preserver, and one of Wisconsin's most trusted voices in agritourism. Alongside her husband Donald, she welcomes guests to Valley Springs Farm for an authentic taste of Driftless Region farm life — from garden-fresh harvests and grass-fed beef to hands-on Kitchen Heritage Skills and her signature homemade jams. A board member of the Wisconsin AgriTourism Association and longtime 4-H leader, Dorothy is as rooted in community as she is in the land.
Read the full bio of Dorothy Harms →