When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Urban Roots East Austin Farm
Why Urban Roots East Austin Farm is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Urban Roots East Austin Farm is a vibrant nonprofit urban farm committed to fostering youth leadership and promoting food equity in Austin. Located on a 3.5-acre property in East Austin, this farm is much more than just a place where fresh produce grows; it serves as a hub for youth development, community engagement, and sustainable agriculture. Since its founding in 2008, Urban Roots has evolved from a small project with 15 teenagers to a prominent organization offering paid internships that teach job skills, sustainability principles, and civic responsibility. The farm provides a unique educational environment where young people learn farming hands-on while also gaining leadership and life skills through service. A significant portion of the farm's harvest—around 40%—is donated to local soup kitchens and food pantry programs, directly addressing food insecurity in the community. Urban Roots hosts annual events like the "Tour de Farm," which showcases youth-led tours and features farm-to-table dinners with produce grown on its farms, creating a meaningful bridge between agriculture and the local community. The permanent purchase of the farmland in East Austin solidifies the organization's dedication to its mission and its roots in the community. With its strong focus on inclusivity, leadership, and sustainable farming practices, Urban Roots East Austin Farm is a fantastic spot to meet friends who care about social impact and fresh, locally grown food.
Here's what people think of Urban Roots East Austin Farm
As of recent, Urban Roots East Austin Farm holds a 4.8-star rating based on 31 reviews.
Reviews for Urban Roots East Austin Farm consistently highlight the organization's strong community engagement and the empowering impact of its youth programs. Visitors and volunteers appreciate the farm's commitment to teaching sustainable agriculture and providing fresh, locally grown produce while nurturing future leaders. Many positive reviews mention the educational opportunities available, praising the welcoming environment, knowledgeable staff, and the meaningful connection to food justice and urban farming. People also enjoy attending events like the annual farm tours and farm-to-table dinners, which seamlessly combine community, culture, and cuisine. On the other hand, some less favorable comments point to the challenges of the farm’s location or limited accessibility for some, reflecting the urban setting and ongoing development pressures in East Austin. Occasionally, visitors note that operations can feel small-scale or that the farm's programs might not be widely advertised enough to attract broader participation. Overall, the reviews portray Urban Roots as a highly valued community resource that successfully integrates youth leadership development with sustainable local farming. The positive feedback about its mission, community atmosphere, and fresh produce far outweighs any minor concerns, making it a well-regarded urban farm and community hub in Austin.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mandee Logsdon
My boyfriend and I volunteered here for one of their Saturday morning events. It's a great way to get out, help the community and even learn some new things. If you're looking to give back a few hours j highly recommend spending some time here!
Jaevin Nunez
Awesome concept. The staff is great, and passionate about what they do. I have volunteered there a couple of times and I have loved my experience every time. At the end of the volunteering shift we got to take a couple of the things we picked out, and that was a nice bonus. If you like getting dirty, I highly recommend volunteering for this awesome organization!
Justin Cartlidge
Just got to spend a chilly morning volunteering here with some coworkers. We harvested some arugula, helped put out row covers in advance of a freeze, and helped protect their squash crops. It was a privilege to help out a non-profit that does so much good for the community.
Solomon Masala
Urban Roots is one of Austin's jewel non profits. The program is one of a kind with respect to creating and empowering place for young people to develop as leaders, with deep awareness of sustainable food production and food oriented social justice. The farm is one of the best experiential feild trips in town, and their fellowship and internship programs are powerful and exciting growth opportunities. The staff is engaging, inspiring and deeply committed. This place is so much more than a farm!
Nick Martin
They make a lot of gas powered pollution and noise for neighbors early in the morning. The soil is likely toxic as well, is on the city brownfield warning list as a former toxic landfill.
How to reach Urban Roots East Austin Farm
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Why Urban Roots East Austin Farm may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Urban Roots East Austin Farm with your friends? Because this unique urban farm offers an inspiring and refreshing environment that blends community, sustainability, and hands-on experiences, making it the ideal spot for meaningful social gatherings. Unlike typical event venues, Urban Roots East Austin Farm provides a living green space where you and your friends can connect with nature, learn about urban agriculture, and enjoy the tranquility of farm life right within the city. The farm’s strong commitment to regenerative farming and local food systems creates a backdrop that sparks conversation, curiosity, and a shared sense of purpose. Whether your gathering aims to relax, educate, or celebrate, the farm’s open, welcoming atmosphere allows for a multi-sensory experience—from vibrant greenery to fresh air and rustic farm sounds—that enhances bonding and creates lasting memories. Hosting a meetup here invites your group to step outside the usual social settings, enjoy farm-fresh surroundings, and partake in an experience that’s both fun and enriching.
What activities can you do at Urban Roots East Austin Farm, and why is it perfect for group meetups? Urban Roots offers a range of activities designed to engage groups of all ages in sustainable agriculture and healthy living. One of the main draws is their educational farm tours, available primarily from September to May on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. These tours last one to two hours and offer hands-on learning about land stewardship, food systems, and regenerative farming practices. For groups interested in deeper involvement or celebration, the farm can accommodate up to 40 people at once, providing an intimate setting for both educational and social events. Larger groups are welcome too, with the option of segmented tours throughout the day. These interactive tours are perfect for friends, families, or community groups who want to learn while connecting with each other in a peaceful outdoor setting. The farm’s experienced staff guide participants through the crops and farming techniques, stimulating conversation and teamwork, which enhances group cohesion.
How does Urban Roots foster a sense of community and sustainability? Urban Roots East Austin Farm isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a hub for community empowerment rooted in sustainable agriculture values. The farm's regenerative practices focus on restoring the health of the soil and honoring the land, ensuring that every visit contributes to ecological renewal. Gathering here naturally promotes discussions about environmental responsibility and local food justice. Many visitors leave inspired to support more sustainable lifestyles and community-driven food solutions. Groups meeting at Urban Roots benefit from this ethos by participating in a collective experience that’s both educational and socially impactful. The farm is located on city-owned land in East Austin, which adds an urban accessibility advantage to the rural farming experience. This proximity encourages community members to take an active role in urban agriculture efforts, strengthening local ties and offering real-world context for sustainability topics.
What makes Urban Roots East Austin Farm especially welcoming and accommodating for groups? Beyond the educational tours and farm activities, Urban Roots has a supportive and flexible approach to hosting. Their staff understand that every group has different needs and tailor experiences accordingly—whether your group is made up of families, friends, school groups, or community organizations. The farm requires chaperones for younger groups, ensuring safety and a guided experience that maximizes engagement. Fees for educational tours are $100 per hour, with waivers available for Title I schools, making the farm accessible to different community members. The farm is open primarily during mornings on select weekdays, but planning with their team in advance can allow you to fit the visit into your group’s schedule. Group meetups here are enriched by the farm’s calm and open spaces, perfect for both learning and casual socializing. There’s also ample room for relaxed conversations, picnics, or small celebrations after tours, making it an ideal escape from indoor or congested venues.
What should groups expect when visiting Urban Roots East Austin Farm? Upon arrival at 7651 Delwau Lane in Austin, your group will be greeted by the vibrant greenery of an urban oasis thriving within the city. The farm is designed to engage all the senses, from the smell of fresh earth to the sight of colorful crops and the touch of various plants. You can expect guided experiences that emphasize hands-on interaction with farm activities, fostering a deeper understanding of where food comes from and how it can be responsibly grown. This experiential learning style not only educates but builds group camaraderie through shared discovery. The farm’s location in East Austin offers easy access for locals and visitors alike, providing a convenient yet immersive setting. Visitors often highlight the peacefulness of the surroundings, making it an ideal place to unwind and refresh together. Whether you want an active educational experience or a serene backdrop to connect with friends, the farm’s ambiance makes every moment special.
How does Urban Roots support ongoing community engagement beyond visits? Urban Roots East Austin Farm is committed to more than just single visits—it actively fosters ongoing relationships with its community through newsletters, volunteer opportunities, and educational programs. After your group meetup, you can stay connected by signing up for their email updates to learn about upcoming events, workshops, and volunteer days. These opportunities allow groups to deepen their engagement with the farm’s mission and support urban agriculture year-round. Participating in volunteer activities or special workshops is an excellent way for friends or families to continue bonding while contributing positively to the environment. Additionally, the farm aligns with various local initiatives aimed at food justice and sustainability, so your group can feel part of a larger movement. This continuity strengthens your group’s connection not only to each other but to the Austin community and sustainable food futures.
In summary, Urban Roots East Austin Farm is a premier destination for group meetups because it combines social connection with educational, environmental, and community-building experiences. Its hands-on tours, regenerative farming ethos, and welcoming atmosphere create a compelling venue that goes beyond the typical meetup space. Here, friends and families can enjoy the fresh outdoors, learn together, and engage in meaningful activities that inspire long-lasting conversations and commitments to sustainability. This farm is a rare gem in the heart of Austin, offering a perfect blend of nature, learning, and community spirit—ideal reasons to rally your group for an unforgettable visit.