New Jersey, often celebrated for its lush landscapes and agricultural heritage, offers a delightful experience for those looking to engage directly with the farm-to-table process of picking your own cherries. This hands-on activity not only provides a fun and educational day out for families, friends, and individuals alike but also supports local farmers and promotes sustainability.
Below, we explore some of the best cherry-picking farms across New Jersey, detailing their amenities, opening hours, and additional attractions. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these farms promise a fruitful adventure. While cherries are the main attraction, many visitors also enjoy picking other fruits and vegetables, such as corn.
Before visiting, it’s advisable to contact the farms to ensure that cherry and corn picking are available, as seasons and stock can vary.
Also Read: Pick Your Own Berries in New Jersey: A Sweet Summer Adventure
1. Budds KNP Farms & Country Market
Amenities: This family-owned farm offers not only a wide variety of pick-your-own cherries but also a country market filled with fresh, local produce and homemade goods.
Opening and Closing Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM during the picking season. It’s best to call ahead for the most accurate information.
Additional Things to Do: After picking cherries, explore the country market for homemade jams, honey, and freshly baked pies. A picnic area is available for those who wish to relax amidst the scenic farm.
2. Krowicki’s Farm Market & Greenhouse
Amenities: Krowicki’s offers a robust selection of fruits and vegetables for picking alongside a greenhouse that sells a variety of plants and flowers.
Opening and Closing Hours: Open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Sunday. Seasonal variations may apply.
Additional Things to Do: The farm market is a must-visit for its fresh produce, bakery items, and unique garden decorations. Special events and workshops are also held throughout the year.
3. Battleview Orchards
Amenities: Famous for its cherries and a wide array of other pick-your-own fruits, Battleview Orchards also features a country store that offers freshly made donuts, pies, and cider.
Opening and Closing Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM, but closed on Tuesdays. Seasonal hours may vary, so calling ahead is recommended.
Additional Things to Do: Enjoy hayrides and seasonal events, including Halloween pumpkin picking and springtime blossom tours.
4. Fruitwood Orchards Honey Farm
Amenities: While known for its honey, Fruitwood also offers a variety of fruits for picking, including cherries when in season.
Opening and Closing Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Weekends may have different hours, so it’s wise to confirm before visiting.
Additional Things to Do: Take a tour of the honey processing area and shop for various honey products, beeswax candles, and more in their store.
5. Mood’s Farm Market
Amenities: Specializing in quick and easy picking, Mood’s Farm Market offers a range of pick-your-own fruits along with a well-stocked market.
Opening and Closing Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday, from 8 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Additional Things to Do: The farm hosts events like the annual Apple Festival and offers freshly pressed apple cider and homemade doughnuts for a perfect fall treat.
6. Roswand’s Farm
Amenities: A smaller, family-run operation that focuses on sustainable farming practices. Cherry picking is available alongside other seasonal fruits.
Opening and Closing Hours: Hours vary by season, typically open from 9 AM to 4 PM. Best to contact them directly for current hours.
Additional Things to Do: Enjoy the serene farm atmosphere and take home some of their farm-fresh eggs or homemade preserves.
7. Stoneyfield Orchard
Amenities: Offers a quaint and peaceful picking experience with a variety of fruit options, including cherries, peaches, and apples.
Opening and Closing Hours: Open seasonally, with hours from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekends. Weekday hours may vary.
Additional Things to Do: The farm offers educational tours and has a small shop selling local honey, jams, and handcrafted items.
8. Terhune Orchards
Amenities: A well-known farm offering a wide range of pick-your-own fruits, a farm store, a winery, and a bakery. It’s a one-stop destination for all farm-fresh desires.
Opening and Closing Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Wine-tasting hours may differ.
Additional Things to Do: Enjoy wine tasting, farm festivals throughout the year, and educational programs for kids.
9. Specca Farms Pick Your Own
Amenities: Focuses on providing a hands-on farming experience with a variety of vegetables and fruits for picking, including cherries and corn.
Opening and Closing Hours: Open Thursday to Sunday, from 8 AM to 7 PM. It’s advisable to check their website or call for the most accurate information.
Additional Things to Do: The farm offers educational tours for schools and groups, providing insights into sustainable farming practices.
10. Peterson Farm
Amenities: Known for its commitment to organic farming, Peterson Farm offers a variety of organic fruits and vegetables for picking.
Opening and Closing Hours: Hours are seasonal and vary. Contact the farm directly for the most up-to-date information.
Additional Things to Do: Participate in their workshops and events focused on organic farming and sustainability.
You may also like to read,
- Best Pick Your Corn in New Jersey (NJ): A Fun U-Pick Adventure
- Best Pick Your Own Tomatoes Farms in New Jersey (NJ): Farm to Food
- Best Pick Your Own Pepper Farms in New Jersey (NJ)
Wrapping up: The Best Cherry-Picking Farms in New Jersey
Picking your own cherries in New Jersey is not just an activity; it’s an experience that connects you with the land and the hardworking farmers who nurture it. Each farm listed here offers something unique, ensuring that no matter where you choose to go, you’re in for a treat. Remember to contact the farms before your visit to confirm availability and hours.
Happy picking!
Pro Tip: For those looking to enhance their picking experience, consider purchasing specialized tools and gear. Items like fruit pickers with telescoping handles can make the process more efficient and enjoyable.
Here are some of the recommendations,
Whether you’re a seasoned picker or trying it for the first time, the farms of New Jersey welcome you to a cherished tradition that promises fun, fresh produce and unforgettable memories.