An Hour at Crabtree Farms: Urban Soil, Busy Bees, and a Lesson in Local Food
For all ages! • 1 Hour • Come to Crabtree Farms and take a tour!
You step off East 30th into a pocket of green that feels improbably calm for a city block. Morning light slices between tomato stakes and raised beds; a low breeze animates a parade of pollinators and the farm smells of damp earth and cut grass. On a weekday tour at Crabtree Farms of Chattanooga, the rhythm is deliberate—one hour of storytelling, observation, and practical takeaways that linger longer than the clock on your phone.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early
Show up 10 minutes before your scheduled tour to check in and ask the guide about focus areas like compost or pollinators.
Closed-Toe Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes—beds and paths can be muddy; closed toes protect against tools and uneven ground.
Bring Water
Tours are outdoors and last an hour—carry a refillable bottle to stay hydrated.
Pack a Picnic
Crabtree has outdoor space for lunch—bring a small picnic to extend the visit after the tour.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small demonstration compost system near the education sign
- •Pollinator patch with labeled native plants behind the main beds
Wildlife
Native bees, Songbirds
Conservation Note
Tours emphasize low-impact practices like composting and pollinator plantings; visitors are asked to respect beds and follow farm guidelines to minimize disturbance.
Crabtree Farms is an urban agricultural site in Chattanooga that provides educational programs connecting community members to sustainable food systems.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Seeing spring plantings, Learning about pollinators
Challenges: Mud after rains, Variable temperatures
Spring brings active growth and many pollinators; plan for muddy patches and fluctuating weather.
summer
Best for: Mature vegetables, Compost demonstrations
Challenges: Heat and midday sun, Higher insect activity
Summer shows the farm in full production—bring sun protection and water; early tours are best to avoid peak heat.
fall
Best for: Harvest lessons, Cover-cropping techniques
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Cooler mornings
Fall is great for harvest-focused talks and seeing soil-restoration practices; layer up for cool mornings.
winter
Best for: Winter planning and preserved food talks, Seed-saving discussions
Challenges: Limited garden activity, Chillier outdoor conditions
Winter tours emphasize planning, composting cycles, and seed-saving; dress warmly for outdoor segments.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects your feet on garden paths and around beds.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated makes the outdoor tour more comfortable.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Sun protection is important during the outdoor portions of the tour.
Light jacket
Early mornings and fall tours can be cool—bring a layer.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
Tours last approximately one hour.
What is the cost?
Cost is $6 per person with a minimum fee of $60 (groups up to 20 people).
Are tours hands-on?
No—tours are educational and not hands-on, though the farm offers other volunteer opportunities separately.
When are tours available?
Currently tours are offered Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 10 a.m.–6 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–2 p.m., as available.
Is there restroom access and a place to eat?
Yes—restroom facilities are available and outdoor space can be used for a picnic after the tour.
Do you need chaperones for youth groups?
Yes—one chaperone per seven participants under 18 is required and admitted free of charge.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes (safety & comfort), water bottle (hydration), sun protection (hat/sunscreen), light jacket (cool mornings)
Did You Know
Crabtree Farms charges $6 per person for guided tours with a $60 minimum—information published by the farm and its booking partners.
Quick Travel Tips
Book at least a week ahead for larger groups; confirm final headcount before payment; expect limited cell service in some outdoor pockets; bring small bills or card for on-site purchases if available
Local Flavor
After your tour, walk a short distance into Chattanooga neighborhoods for local cafés and bakeries; try a farm-to-table restaurant or a neighborhood deli to taste how urban farms influence local menus.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA); Meeting point: Crabtree Farms of Chattanooga • 1000 E 30th Street; Driving from downtown Chattanooga: ~5–10 minutes; Cell service: generally available but may be spotty in garden nooks; Permits: None required for public tours—book and pay in advance.
Sustainability Note
Crabtree Farms emphasizes composting, pollinator plantings, and local food education—please stay on designated paths, pack out any trash, and respect plantings to reduce impact.