Connecticut, with its rich soil and warm summers, is a haven for cherry enthusiasts. The state is dotted with family-owned farms where you can pick your own cherries, turning a simple outing into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re after the sweetest Bing cherries or the tart Montmorency variety, these farms offer the best in variety, scenery, and additional amenities.
Before embarking on your cherry-picking adventure, consider gearing up with essentials from Amazon to make your experience as enjoyable and efficient as possible.
Also Read: Best Pick Your Own Cherries Farms in New Jersey: Top 10 Picks
Cherry Picking Essentials
- Fruit Picking Basket: A sturdy basket will help you collect and transport your cherries without bruising them.
- Gardening Gloves: To protect your hands from any sap or branches.
- Sturdy Containers: Bring along some containers to safely transport the cherries home.
- Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen will keep you protected under the sun.
Best Top Cherry Picking Farms in Connecticut
Cherry-picking is one of the best U-Pick activities, and it offers a great adventure for family outings and spending quality time together. It pulls you closer to nature and offers refreshing moments to celebrate.
North Connecticut
1. Starberry Farms
- Amenities: Expert picking advice.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 4 PM, during cherry season.
- Additional Info: Visit early in the season for the best selection.
- Address: 47 Starberry Ln, Washington Depot, CT 06794
- Phone: (860) 868-2200
- Email: info@starberryfarms.com
- Additional Activity: Enjoy hiking trails and scenic views around the farm.
This specialized cherry farm in New Preston is a favorite among locals for its exceptional sweet cherries. Starberry Farms offers a peaceful picking experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Their knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide tips for selecting the best cherries.
2. Rogers Orchards
- Amenities: Retail stores, bakery.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM, cherry season.
- Additional Info: A historic farm offering a glimpse into Connecticut’s agricultural heritage.
- Address: 336 Long Bottom Rd, Southington, CT 06489
- Phone: (860) 229-4240
- Email: info@rogersorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Explore their farm market and bakery.
Rogers Orchards in Southington has been a staple in Connecticut farming for over two centuries. Their cherry orchards are a newer addition but offer the same high-quality produce the farm is known for. Visitors can also enjoy their two retail stores, which feature pies, pastries, and local dairy products.
Also Read: 12 Best Pick Your Own Peaches in Connecticut: Savor the Sweetness
South Connecticut
3. Silverman’s Farm
- Amenities: Animal farm, market.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM, cherry season.
- Additional Info: This is a great choice for families looking for a diverse farm experience.
- Address: 451 Sport Hill Rd, Easton, CT 06612
- Phone: (203) 261-3306
- Email: info@silvermansfarm.com
- Additional Activity: Visit their petting zoo and enjoy hayrides.
Established in 1920, Silverman’s Farm in Easton offers an extensive selection of fruit for picking, including cherries. The farm features an animal farm, making it a hit with children and a farm market stocked with fresh produce and gifts. Their scenic Orchard provides a picturesque setting for cherry picking.
Also Read: 13 Best Pick Your Own Apples in Connecticut: Orchards & Farms
4. Bishop’s Orchard Blueberry Picking
- Amenities: Winery, market.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 7 PM. The cherry season varies.
- Additional Info: Wine tasting is available, adding a delightful twist to your cherry-picking experience.
- Address: 1355 Boston Post Rd, Guilford, CT 06437
- Phone: (203) 453-2338
- Email: info@bishopsorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Explore their farm market and winery.
While primarily known for blueberries, Bishop’s Orchard in Guilford also offers cherry picking when in season. The farm’s extensive property includes a winery and market, making it a perfect destination for an all-encompassing day trip. Their focus on sustainable agriculture ensures fresh and flavorful produce.
5. Homestead Farm of Jones Family Farms
- Amenities: Educational programs and wine tastings.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5:30 PM, cherry season.
- Additional Info: Explore their wine tastings for a relaxing end to your cherry-picking day.
- Address: 606 Walnut Tree Hill Rd, Shelton, CT 06484
- Phone: (203) 929-8425
- Email: info@jonesfamilyfarms.com
- Additional Activity: Visit their winery and participate in seasonal events.
The Homestead Farm, part of Jones Family Farms in Shelton, is celebrated for its commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. While cherries are just one of their many pick-your-own offerings, the farm provides a comprehensive agricultural experience with educational programs and wine tastings at their vineyard.
Also Read: 12 Best Pick Your Own Peaches in Connecticut: Savor the Sweetness
East Connecticut
6. Dondero Orchards
- Amenities: Bakery, kitchen.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM; check for cherry season dates.
- Additional Info: Their bakery is a must-visit for homemade goods.
- Address: 5290 Dunhamtown-Bradley Rd, Glastonbury, CT 06033
- Phone: (860) 633-2789
- Email: info@donderoorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Participate in their seasonal festivals and farm-to-table dinners.
Nestled in South Glastonbury, Dondero Orchards offers a family-friendly environment for cherry picking. Apart from cherries, they have a wide range of other fruits and vegetables available throughout the year. The Orchard’s on-site bakery and kitchen produce delicious treats, jams, and jellies from their own harvest.
7. Drazen Orchards
- Amenities: Peaceful setting.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM, during cherry season.
- Additional Info: Ideal for a quiet, family-oriented outing.
- Address: 251 Wallingford Rd, Cheshire, CT 06410
- Phone: (203) 272-7985
- Email: info@drazenorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Participate in their seasonal events and festivals.
Drazen Orchards in Cheshire prides itself on offering a variety of pick-your-own fruits, including cherries. The farm’s tranquil setting allows for a relaxing day out in nature, with the added benefit of taking home fresh, delicious cherries. Their friendly staff are happy to share tips on picking and storing your fruits.
Also Read: 9 Best Pick-Your-Own Tomato Farms in Connecticut
West Connecticut
8. March Farm
- Amenities: Playground, pond, farm market.
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM; check for cherry season.
- Additional Info: A perfect destination for a full day of family fun.
- Address: 160 Munger Ln, Bethlehem, CT 06751
- Phone: (203) 266-7721
- Email: info@marchfarm.com
- Additional Activity: Explore their corn maze and attend farm events.
March Farm in Bethlehem is a fourth-generation family farm offering a variety of activities alongside cherry picking. With a playground, pond, and farm market, it’s an ideal spot for a family day out. The farm emphasizes sustainable farming practices, ensuring the best quality produce.
9. Rose’s Berry Farm LLC
- Amenities: Breakfast with a view and a farm stand.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM, cherry season.
- Additional Info: Don’t miss their breakfast on the deck for a unique farm experience.
- Address: 295 Matson Hill Rd, South Glastonbury, CT 06073
- Phone: (860) 633-7467
- Email: info@rosesberryfarm.com
- Additional Activity: Enjoy their breakfast with a view on Sundays during the picking season.
Rose’s Berry Farm in South Glastonbury is Connecticut’s largest blueberry farm, and it also offers a splendid array of cherries for picking. The farm’s Sunday breakfasts with a view are legendary, providing a delicious start to a day of cherry picking. Their commitment to quality and community makes every visit memorable.
Also Read: 10+ Best Berry Picking Farms in Connecticut: A Fun PYO Activity
Central Connecticut
10. Belltown Hill Orchards
- Amenities: Farm market, bakery.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM, cherry season typically in June-July.
- Additional Info: Check their website or call ahead for the exact dates of cherry season and available varieties.
- Address: 483 Matson Hill Rd, South Glastonbury, CT 06073
- Phone: (860) 633-2789
- Email: info@belltownhillorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Enjoy their farm store and bakery with fresh products.
Belltown Hill Orchards in South Glastonbury is renowned for its expansive cherry orchards, offering a variety of both sweet and tart cherries. The farm’s picturesque landscape provides a perfect backdrop for a day out with family and friends.
Besides cherry picking, Belltown Hill offers homemade pies and fresh produce at their farm market, making it a must-visit for a complete farm-to-table experience.
Also Read: 10 Best Pick Your Own Plums in Connecticut
11. Lyman Orchards
- Amenities: Market, bakery, golf course, corn maze.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM, cherry picking in June.
- Additional Info: Enjoy other seasonal activities and check their event calendar for special happenings.
- Address: 32 Reeds Gap Rd, Middlefield, CT 06455
- Phone: (860) 349-6000
- Email: info@lymanorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Play a round of golf at their championship golf courses.
Set in the rolling hills of Middlefield, Lyman Orchards offers a wide range of pick-your-own fruits, including cherries, during the early summer. The Orchard’s 1100 acres also house a golf course, a corn maze, and a market offering baked goods and local produce. Their commitment to sustainable farming practices ensures the highest quality fruits.
12. Scott’s Orchard
- Amenities: Farm stand.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM, cherry season.
- Additional Info: Availability can vary, so it’s recommended to call ahead.
- Address: 120 Scott Rd, Glastonbury, CT 06033
- Phone: (860) 633-8681
- Email: info@scottsorchard.com
- Additional Activity: Enjoy their bakery and farm store with fresh products.
Scott’s Orchard in East Lyme provides a quaint and intimate cherry-picking experience. Known for their attentive customer service, the farm offers a selection of sweet cherries. The Orchard also features a variety of other fruits throughout the season, with a farm stand selling fresh produce and local honey.
Also Read: 12+ Best Pick Your Own Corn Farms in Connecticut: Blissful Pick
FAQs on Pick Your Own Cherries in Connecticut
The cherry season typically runs from late June to early July, but it’s best to check with individual farms for exact timings.
Cherries should be kept cool and dry. Store them in the refrigerator and wash them only before eating to extend their shelf life.
Many farms encourage or require you to bring your own containers. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm.
Policies vary by farm, so please check with the farm beforehand regarding their pet policy.
Also Read: How to Create a Simple Yet Effective Bird Feeder Using Everyday Materials: DIY
Wrapping up: Best Pick Your Own Cherries in Connecticut
Picking your own cherries in Connecticut is a delightful summer activity that offers fun for all ages. Each farm provides a unique experience, from tranquil orchards to family-friendly farms with additional attractions.
Before visiting, it’s crucial to contact the farm to confirm cherry availability and any specific visiting guidelines.
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