As summer wanes and golden hues paint the hillsides of southwestern Wisconsin, there’s no better time to embrace the rhythms of nature, local heritage, and small-town charm than with a stay at Valley Springs Farm Bed & Breakfast—your cozy country retreat nestled near the heart of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area. This September, our guests are in for something truly special: the Hill and Valley Exploration Tour, a unique, self-guided journey through the region’s rolling terrain and vibrant arts scene.

Whether you’re an avid explorer, a curious foodie, or just craving a peaceful weekend away from the noise, this tour is the perfect way to celebrate the changing seasons and the communities that make this area so remarkable.
9th Annual Hill and Valley Exploration Tour LOGO.

🎨 What is the Hill and Valley Exploration Tour?

Held annually in September, the Hill and Valley Exploration Tour showcases the beauty and diversity of the Driftless Region through a curated network of local farms, artists, and craftspeople. Visitors drive at their own pace along scenic backroads to explore tucked-away studios, historic homesteads, hand-crafted goods, and organic farms—each a reflection of rural innovation and artisan spirit.

This isn’t your average tour. It’s immersive. Intimate. And wildly photogenic.

Highlights include:

  • Meet-the-Maker moments with artists and farmers who share stories of their craft.
  • Farm-fresh bites and homemade treats offered at select stops.
  • Family Friendly stops– get lost in a corn maze or farm playscape.
  • One-of-a-kind shopping with pumpkins & mums, crafted wines, and seasonal produce.

It’s the kind of experience where you’re encouraged to slow down, savor, and connect—with the land, the people, and yourself.

Wooden wine rack with bottles of Narrow Gauge Winery wine.

🏡 Why Stay at Valley Springs Farm B&B?

Our Bed & Breakfast is more than a place to rest—it’s part of the story. Just minutes from several featured tour stops, Valley Springs Farm offers a tranquil home base where you can sip coffee on the porch overlooking dewy fields, chat with hosts who know the area inside and out, and map out your weekend adventures.

Each morning starts with a lovingly prepared, locally inspired breakfast, and ends with the kind of country quiet that makes sleep come easy. Our rooms are simple yet charming, blending rustic comfort with thoughtful touches that make you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

We’ll even provide complimentary tour maps, insider tips, and maybe a few homemade cookies for the road.

📍 Planning Your Visit

Here’s how to make the most of your September escape:

  1. Book your room early – September is prime leaf-peeping season, and the Hill and Valley Tour attracts travelers from all over the Midwest.
  2. Pack for exploration – Think comfortable shoes, layers for shifting temps, and a tote for all the treasures you’ll collect.
  3. Bring your curiosity – This tour is full of surprises. Whether you wander into a century-old barn turned art gallery or end up chatting with a beekeeper about pollination, every stop holds something memorable.

And don’t worry if you’ve never done a self-guided tour before—we’ll help you get started and offer suggestions to tailor your route based on your interests.
Vibrant pink chrysanthemum flowers in full bloom.

🌾 Something to Savor

There’s something quietly magical about autumn in the Driftless Region. The air holds a crisp promise. The leaves turn to fiery mosaics. The farms buzz with harvest activity. And the people—friendly, grounded, endlessly creative—are eager to share what they love with those who come seeking connection.

So this September, let the Hill and Valley Exploration Tour be your guide, and let Valley Springs Farm Bed & Breakfast be your getaway. We’re ready to welcome you with open arms, warm beds, and a sense of place you’ll carry long after your visit ends.

🛏️ Ready to reserve your spot? Call, click, or email—we’d love to help you plan an unforgettable September escape.