Want the kind of day that smells like sweet corn, tastes like warm apple cider donuts, and ends with muddy boots and full hearts? We sit down with Gabriella Gallrein of Gallrein Farms to explore how a third-generation family operation became one of Kentucky’s most beloved agritourism destinations without losing its roots.

The story starts decades ago, with a move from Louisville to Shelbyville, when dairy days gave way to greenhouses, u-pick strawberries, and a market famous for peaches-and-cream sweet corn. Gabriella walks us through the seasonal rhythm: spring blooms and starter plants, summer’s overflowing produce stands, and a sunflower and corn festival designed to get families outdoors among acres of color. Then comes fall—the big one—with hayrides to the pumpkin patch, a corn maze, jump pillows, barrel trains, a haunted house, and those donuts people line up for. We talk practical tips too: weekend vs. weekday timing, what’s open when, and how the cafe turns farm-fresh tomatoes and lettuce into pressed paninis and homemade sides worth the trip.

Beyond the fun, there’s real scale and innovation. Gallrein farms 1,200 acres, supplies local restaurants and select farmers markets, and recently installed solar panels with help from the USDA REAP program to cut costs and reduce energy use. Gabriella also shares her path from Navy aviator to farm leader, why community tables beat standard seating, and how the event pavilion hosts company picnics and large gatherings with ease. If you’re looking for Shelby County attractions, Kentucky agritourism, sunflower fields, pumpkin patches, or the best sweet corn around, this conversation maps your perfect visit.

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🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism.

🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation.

🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Mason Warren.

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