Where in Worcester County, Massachusetts to find pick your own farms and orchards for fruit, vegetables, pumpkins and canning & freezing instructions!

To see the pick-your-own farms and orchards for this area, click here or scroll down the page

This month's notes: February 2012: Winter is upon us, but don't despair! Strawberry and citrus picking actually begins in Florida, southern Texas and southern Californiaa in December. And for the rest of us; there are many delicious jams, jellies, and marmalades that you can make for yourself or as gifts, from frozen or fresh fruit. See this page for hundreds of easy canning and freezing instructions/recipes, canning equipment guide! Also make your own ice cream - see How to make ice cream and ice cream making equipment and manuals. Then see each state's crop availability calendar for more specific dates of upcoming crops. Organic farms are identified in green! See our guide to local fruit and vegetable festivals!. Please tell the farms you found them here - and ask them to update their information!!

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U-Pick Farms and Orchards, sorted by county

Remember: ALWAYS call (or follow the link to the farm's own website, if the name is a blue link) to confirm the information before you go! They may close, run out or change events, times, etc. without notifying me!

Worcester County

Apple Lane Orchard - apples
2393 Main Street - Route 117, Lancaster, MA. Phone: (978) 840-6963. Directions: Route 190 to exit 7 (Route 117) east toward Lancaster, . 6 miles on left, or I495 exit 27 (Route 117) west toward Bolton 7. 6 miles on right. September /Oct. , weekends, 10-4pm, other hours by appt. Old fashioned country-style orchard with access to Nashua River and views of Mt. Wachusett. Picnic tables and containers provided.

Berlin Orchards - apples, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, pony rides, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours
Route 62 & Lower Sawyer Hill Road, Berlin, MA 01503. Phone: (978 838-2400. Fax: (978) 897-1871. Email: info@berlinorchards.com. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in August, September, October, November. Open: Monday to Friday, 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 5:30 pm. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx.

Approximate Apple Availability Please call Berlin Orchards at (978) 838-2400 for details
Macintosh	Beginning of September
Royal Gala	Beginning of September
Cortland	Middle of September
Jonagold	Middle of September
Macouns	End of September
Empire	Early October
Red Delicious	End of September
Mutsu	Beginning of October
Fuji	Beginning of October

A visitor writes on August 23, 2010: (positive)"Berlin Orchard in Berlin-Our favorite place to pick apples! They have a good selection of varieties and we enjoy the hayride and wandering the relatively quiet orchard.

Bolton Spring Farm - pick-your-own apples
149 Main Street - Route 117, Bolton, MA. Phone: (978) 779-2898. Directions: 2 miles East of Exit 27 off Route 495 on Route 117 near the Stow/Bolton line. Open: daily 9am to 6pm, starts Labor Day for apples, 3 weeks later for pumpkins. Containers provided, children welcome, groups by appointment on weekdays. Picnic tables provided, country farmstand with homemade hot dumplings, pies, and donuts. They also have peaches, pears, and plums in their farmstand. (UPDATED: February 12, 2010)
A visitor writes on February 12, 2010: (positive) "Bolton Spring Farm is my favorite Massachusetts orchard. They have hard-to-find old-fashioned apples like Baldwin and Northern Spy (both varieties are superb for pies), as well as a number of other varieties Their Macouns are outstanding: I shared some with friends, who said they'd never had Macouns anywhere near as good. Their peaches are fantastic! They also grow excellent plums, pears, and vegetables. The apple dumplings are scrumptious. Bolton Spring Farm's prices are very reasonable. "
Breezeland Orchards - apples
Southbridge Road, Warren, MA. Phone: (413) 436-7100. Directions: Just off Route 148 - Between Routes 9 & 20. 7 minutes from Sturbridge: Go north on 148 3 miles, then left after High School. Starts early September to mid-October. Open daily 10am to 6pm.
Containers provided, cider, donuts and pumpkins also available. Bring the whole family.
A visitor writes on September 05, 2010: (positive) "My family went to Breezeland Orchards today which is located in Warren, Ma. Very friendly staff and a great family trip. Currently they are picking Macintosh apples, but after talking to a member of the Tuttle family they tell me that Cortland should be next (pies) as well as the Honey Crisp's which is my favorite eating apple. They have a blow up apple for the kids to play in and also offer wagon rides out to the apples when they are ripe to be picked. To pick a half bushel you pay $15 but this includes the wagon ride as well as everything you can eat while your picking. :-) I have always felt welcomed at thier farm. If you go during the week you can also get a coupon for free cider donuts by looking at thier website."
Brookfield Orchards - apples
12 Lincoln Road, North Brookfield, MA. Phone: (508) 867-6858. Directions: Mass Pike to Sturbridge exit 9. Take Route 20 East toward Charlton, take Route 49 to the end, turn left onto Route 9, right at the blinking yellow light, (Harrington St. ) follow signs. Open: Every day in season, usually Labor Day to October 10th. Containers provided, 1/2 bushel minimum. Country store, snack bar, picnic tables and playground. Antiques. Crafts. Hot apple dumplings cider ice cream.
A visitor writes on June 20, 2011: (positive)"Delicious warm dumplings and ice cream and very friendly staff. We enjoy going off season because it is not busy then and the store is neat."
Carlson Orchards,Inc. - apples, blueberries, peaches, raspberries, Cider mill
115 Oak Hill Road, Box 359, Harvard, MA. Phone: 978-456-3916. Alternate phone: 800-286-3916. Directions: Route 2 West to the Ayer/Groton Exit 38B onto Route 110N, one quarter mile take ist right-Poor Farm Road, follow signs, 2. 5 miles. From Route 495 take exit 28 to Route 111 towards Harvard. one quarter mile, follow signs. Apple PYO hours are 10am-5pm, 7 days a week. Peach and Nectarines: Call, Mid-July on, 10-5pm. We supply containers. (UPDATED: April 15, 2010)
A visitor writes on August 30, 2010: (negative) "NEGATIVE,DON't BOTHER! they could really care less about you and your business. Last friday, 8/27/2010 my sister, mother, and twin 5 year olds were picking blueberries, peaches and other items. While picking her kids picked 5-6very small apples of some nearby trees. [there were no signs anywhere in her area that said not to pick them] When she got to the check out she had about 2 larges baskets about 2 ft tall of peaches, raspberries, blueberries etc and explained to the white haired lady that her kids had picked the apples and she didn't want them left on the ground and wanted the kids to learn responsibility by paying for them. After chastising her for the kids picking them, The lady put the 5-6 apples [about 2" round] into a LARGE bag [about 14" tall] and told my sister it would be $14, as the apples are only sold by the bag. She was horrified but at least told the lady if she had to pay $14 she wanted to go back and fill the bag, so they did. while there a man came in and wanted to buy 2 peaches. the lady would not sell him 2 peaches as they are sold by the big bag only, so my sister gave him some from her basket. What a horrible place to take your business, find another farm"
A visitor writes on August 24, 2009: (positive) "Carlson Orchards is the most beautiful orchard I have seen, the peaches and nectarines we picked were delicious with lots of varieties, and the staff is friendly and helpful. It was quiet and peaceful in the orchard despite it being the weekend and also a peach festival. Everyone in our party was impressed with Carlson orchard. Their blueberries and raspberries are also plentiful and delicious. "
Charlton Orchards - Blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, peaches, apples, pears and raspberries.
44 Old Worcester Road, Box 339, Charlton, MA. Phone: 508- 248-7820. Email info@charltonorchard.com. Directions: Route 20 West 6 miles from Route 395 and Route 290, look for signs. Route 20 East, 4 miles from Mass. Pike, Sturbridge exit and Route 84. Follow signs map and more directions. Pick your own fruit is available beginning with Strawberries in June, Blueberries and Raspberries in July and August, Peaches in August and continue with Apples and Pears in September and October. Our winery, producing the best in handcrafted fruit and grape wines, is open year round and sponsors tasting events throughout the year. Offer picnic tables, wagon rides during apple season. Peach Festival in August. Harvest Festival in October and Christmas at Charlton Orchards first week in December. Strawberry Festival in June, Blueberry Festival in July.
Does anyone have experience; positive or negative about this farm? Write me!
Comments:
A visitor writes on September 19, 2011: (negative) "We drove 100 miles last Friday, 9/16/2011 based on information listed at Charlton Farm website for PYO peaches [website says they were currently PYO peaches, so did voice message when telephoned]. When we finally got there, we found a dump of a place. Run-down buildings, [PICK YOUR OWN PEACH SEASON WAS OVER] but displayed in boxes at farmstand were rotting under-sized peaches at exhorbitant prices and a horrible road to even get to the place. The website is a FRAUD! Everyone should know this......do not go there....you will be EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED!! Carol "
A visitor writes on September 04, 2011: (negative) "I looked up the orchards and was excited to try it. Thankfully I called to confirm what was available for picking today and was told everyone was welcome to pick apples but only adults were allowed in the blackberry and rasberry fields. Since we as a family wanted to get berries, we're going to Harvard to another orchard. I did comment on that not being a family friendly policy and was told quite snippily that they *are* family friendly but its quite an expensive crop and children aren't respectful so therefore can't pick. They can unload their expensive crop elsewhere as far as I am concerned!"
A visitor writes on July 07, 2011: (negative) "I live in Charlton. Two of my three children worked at this farm as young teens. The woman who owns and operates this farm is anything but pleasant. She provides a place for these tweens to find summer employment, yet expects them to have the work ethic of a thirty year old with a mortgage and a family. While I agree with the argument that kids today don't understand a hard days work earns a days pay - this woman is just out of control. Has been for years. The farm is not cared for at all, and the farm stand and winery are dirty. Fruit flies everywhere, etc. And her yelling at her help and her customers. The sad part is, there are so many people today trying to support the family owned business. Charlton Orchard is in a great location, and apparently does an Ok business, even with all the bad public relations. Imagine how well they could do!! Imagine how many people with the right demeanor and work ethic would give anything for the opportunity to have this piece of property and this farm. Shame on her."
A visitor writes on June 19, 2011: (positive) "Just got back from picking at Charlton Orchards with my wife and 4 year old daughter. We had a great time good strawberries and the people there were friendly to all of us. This is a working family farm, and not one of the u-pick entertainment desinations we've been to closer to Boston. (I personally don't like the idea of paying 5$ to step on the property, and then for what you pick on top of that.) That expection of an entertainment destination vs. a u-pick farm seems to be at the core of most of the negative reviews. We had a great time and I expect we will be back many times."
A visitor writes on September 27, 2010: (negative) "I felt vindicated and validated reading all the negative reviews of this orchard because I have avoided going there for the past 5 years, ever since my 3 y/o was treated VERY BADLY by an older lady there who owns the orchard. He had picked-up a small, half-rotten apple off the ground and turned to give it to a goat (there were no signs posted not to feed the animals!), when she came up and started screaming at him, "Give that to me! Who the hell do you think you are!?" She then began ranting about "Damn people think they can do whatever they want..." I interrupted her to say excuse me, if there was a rule about not feeding the animals we're sorry but you don't need to speak to my toddler like that. She then started berating me and I have to say, at the time, I was going through chemo and visibly ill! She was heartless and rude and nasty. I would NEVER return to this orchard. There may be older folks who don't like having kids around (nice review about the snot-covered apples that lady posted. Wow.) but these business thrive on families' business. This place could care less if you spend your money there."
A visitor writes on September 04, 2010: (negative) "Proud father of 2 boys, 5 and 3. Living in Sturbrige I pass this orchard often. For some reason we usually end up stopping there and I never have a good experience. The counter help always make you feel like you are bothering them. We went looking to fill in about an hour of our day. We walked around and did not bother to play on the 1980's plastic toys, and then decided to go buy an apple or two. Well of course we "had" to buy a bag of apples. Why can't we buy 2? Save your time and look at other farms. "
A visitor writes on August 25, 2010: (positive) "I find it unbelievable how many negative comments this poor farm has!! I have been coming to this farm for years(with my kids!) and we have never had a bad experience. I'll admit, I have seen the owner upset at families, yet it is always because the group clearly cannot follow directions! The only rules on this farm are that you watch where you step in there fields, keep an eye on your kids, and pick in designated areas only. That doesn't sound so hard to me, but the amount of people who can screw that up is surprising. In regards to the woman who commented on the raspberries..get over it! I grow some bushes in my backyard and you'd be surprised how much money it costs to tend to them and how gentle you have to be around the bushes. Perhaps your kids are well behaved, but would you take the financial risk of allowing immature children to rip up fragile plants? No. Charlton Orchards is 100% child friendly and the only people who have something bad to say clearly cant follow instructions! If you want to go to a farm that allows you to roam freely, don't come here! This is a genuin working farm with tractors that run out in some parts of the orchard. The staff asks you to pick in certain areas for your safety. Don't count this farm out..it is beautiful and a great experience awaits you. "
A visitor writes on August 22, 2010: (negative) "I have to comment on the emails and reviews. Its funny but I happened to be in the shop at the moment this poor woman came in with her infant and toddler. I was also shocked they didn't offer to call it a wash. She had what amounted to a handful of berries and crying babies. The girl at the counter wasn't rude but she should certainly have gotten someone over her to help her. She was a young girl and following the picking rules. That said, CUSTOMER SERVICE is not within this farms abilities. The patch itself was in horrible conditions, the orchard run down. The girl in the mini store was not well trained. (I'd say she was polite but not knowledgeable. IF a farm wants to make a profit in this day and age EDUCATE Your Staff you need the community to want to come to you first.) I also thought at that time, why would a mom of an infant and a very small toddler think this was going to be a good idea? I'm a very experienced mom and to be fair, it wasn't a great choice and you most likely learned a Mom lesson. Hot days and infants aren't good for picking any fruits alone. Going alone without a spouse or friend might have been a second thought. I really felt for the mom and staff but had this been my employee I would have been sadden to know she didn't try to solve this issue by going to her supervisor. Point for customer here."
A visitor writes on June 24, 2010: (negative) "I had a really negative pick-your-own experience at Charlton Orchards this morning. I arrived alone with my 2 kids, age 1.5 and 3 months. I told the clerk we wanted to pick our own strawberries, she gave us a box, and we went to town. As you can imagine, picking fruit off the ground with a 3 month old baby strapped to your chest is somewhat challenging. My 1.5 year old was too young to help, and just toddled around saying Sabees! Sabees! But she was having a good time, which was really the whole point. After about 30 minutes or so my daughter was hot and cranky, so we gave up and went back to pay for our admittedly meager harvest. When we got back to the store, the clerk told us we hadn't picked the minimum amount, and she would have to charge us $5 for our three handfuls of fruit. I was completely taken aback, as she made no mention of a minimum required purchase when we first spoke with her, despite the fact that I mentioned to her that we probably weren't going to be able to pick all that much but we wanted to go out and try. There was a sign out in front of the store stating there was a minimum $5 purchase for groups of 4 adults, but I was one adult with two babies, one of which was strapped to me. I asked her if she could give me a break and she said no, "those are the rules and I don't make the rules." If I were alone I probably would have left emptyhanded, but since my toddler was so excited about her "Sabees" I ended up paying $5 for a pitifully small amount of fruit. I'm all for supporting local independent business and everything, but seriously, it was such a truly crappy customer service experience that I doubt I will ever go back. It truly is a shame because as a family we go out of our way to spend money at local businesses and eat as much local produce as possible. Oh well. We'll still be doing that, just not at Charlton Orchards. "
A visitor writes on June 14, 2010: (negative) "I would like to comment to the fellow who thought that the gentleman at Charlton Orchard's was so rude. I have found this also to be my experience there. Also, they were very unwilling to support the local high school in a fundraising project. And so, even though I am a resident of Charlton and would like to support local business, I choose to go elsewhere for pick your own and to buy produce. And, by the way, I found a business in Sturbridge that was willing to help with the fundraiser. Shame on Charlton Orchards for not supporting your local kids. So why should I support you? Enough said."
A visitor writes on July 06, 2009: (negative) "the non gentleman that answered the telephone was soooo rude. i decided immediately to NEVER go this farm no matter how bad I want strawberries. Also stated $2.75 lb!!!! What!!!! incredibly expensive!!!!"
A visitor writes on July 04, 2009: (positive) "I've been going to Charlton Orchards for the past 10 years or so for blueberry and strawberry picking. I *like* that they are limiting on the children and rowdy school agers in the patches. The one thing I hate about some of the other farms, are all the toddlers and young children romping around, crushing berries, getting snot and spit covered hands on the berries, while the mothers (usually) are chatting with the other playgroup moms and not being right there with their kids. In general, Charlton Orchards doesn't have an issue with kids if there is 1 adult per child accompanying, and that the whole family (as a unit) looks and is acting responsible. Charlton is not a "playground farm" for sure -- lots of grown-up/older folk picking, and you can just enjoy the peace of the farm, and not have to listen to rowdy kids or crying cranky babies. That's honestly, quite nice and very welcome."
A visitor writes on July 01, 2009: (negative) "Hello, I definately agree with the other writers that this is NOT a child friendly orchard. The staff are borderline rude and obviously not very fond of children. We would not recommend this orchard, and we certainly would NEVER go there again. I have been to many other local orchards where the staff is warm and inviting, and talk kindly to our little ones."
A visitor writes on May 30, 2009: (positive) "My sons and I went blueberry picking last year at this farm and it was a pleasant experience. When we were leaving i commented on when raspberry picking would be coming. The woman at the farm had said soon. So, i turned to my boys that were 9 and 8 yrs old and said, "oh good we'll have to come back at that time to go raspberry picking". The woman immmediately said "Oh no we dont allow children in the raspberry area to pick". So i asked why and she said that the bushes are very delicate and in the past children have crushed the bushes and stuff. It's not like my boys were babies - they are old enough to know the difference of what to do and not. But one family basically ruined it for the rest of us. since we have so many farms in our area..it wasnt a concern."
A visitor writes on October 12, 2008: (positive) "I visit Charlton Orchards often, and find it a pleasant, old-fashioned family-run place. Indeed it is not the playground/amusement type of farm... it's real a working farm and as such does not deserve a warning on your site."
A visitor writes on September 10, 2008: (negative) "This is in response to the request for information about Charlton Orchards not being child friendly. I have taken my three year old daughter to Charlton Orchards several times and she has loved it. They have a few farm animals that are interesting to her. There is a small play area that is not well maintained (it is filled with the small plastic play-sets meant for children under 6 some of which are falling apart), but it is not dangerous. The staff are not as friendly as the ones at other orchards, such as Honey Pot Hill, but they were not mean to my daughter."
Clearview Farm - apples, raspberries.
4 Kendall Hill Road, Sterling, MA. Phone: 978-422-6442. Email:clearviewfarm@comcast.netDirections: Take Route 12, Route 62, or Route 190 to Sterling Center, go one half mile up Maple Street, take right onto Kendall Hill Road, farm 1st on left; map and more directions. Open: 10am to 6pm weekends w/hayrides. 11-5pm weekdays, Groups by appointment. (UPDATED: May 31, 2008)
A visitor writes on September 24, 2009: "Just wanted to say how disappointed we were with our experience here. As we were going to be in the area last Sunday, I researched on your site to find a farm close by & was so glad to find this one with hayrides. When we went to purchase a bag to pick apples they asked how many we were to write the number on the bag. We are a family of five, & were told that we couldn't pick a peck with 5 people, but would have to purchase the more expensive 1/2 bushel bag. I did not see requirement posted anywhere & as we had already purchased cider, etc from them, did not have enough left to purchase the larger bag. I did mention that this was not right & the adults only wanted to watch the kids anyway & was told by what appeared to be the man in charge that these were the rules for everyone, they had to make a living & this was how all the farms operated. We are from NH & apple pick every year here, & have never heard of this at any of the places we frequent. We should have walked away, but had children who had been looking forward to this, so 2 of us had to stay behind. They had to take a hay ride to the orchard, but there was no signs or directions on what kinds of apples were available to pick. Just the driver who said 'pick here, not there.' I hope you will post this to the site, & let others know what to expect. Thank you for the great job on the site, we have used it several times, usually with success. "
Deershorn Farm - closed
205 Chase Hill Road- Route 62, Lancaster, MA.
Derrick Farms - Blueberries
301 Sanders Road, Oakham, MA. Phone: (508) 882-5591. Directions: Route 122 to Route 148, South 3 one half miles, from Spencer take Route 31 North 2 miles past St. Joseph's Monastery and follow signs to farm in Oakham. Open: Call to confirm. In 2007: Tuesday to Saturday from 8 am to 6 pm, Sundays from 8 am to noon, Closed Mondays.

A visitor writes on August 16, 2011: (positive)

A visitor writes on July 15, 2011: (positive)

A visitor writes on August 12, 2009: (positive)

A visitor writes on July 31, 2009: (positive)

Doe Orchards - blueberries, apples and Christmas trees
327 Ayer Road, Route 110/111, Harvard, MA 01451. Phone: 978-772-4139. Open: Berry picking begins the weekend after the 4th of July and runs at least through mid-August; Call for specific days/hours. Directions: located off of Route 2 in the Nashoba Valley of central Massachusetts. We are 30 miles west of downtown Boston and just 1 mile from the Nashua River Rail Trail and the Fitchburg/South Acton line on the Commuter Rail. Please see our map page for more detailed directions. Committed to "PICK YOUR OWN", we grow 25 acres of a wide variety of apples, 10 acres of Christmas trees and two acres of blueberries and raspberries. Apple picking begins Labor Day Weekend and runs 10AM - 5PM daily through late October. Children welcome, groups should call for an appointment, containers provided. Macs, Cortlands, Delicious, Empires, and Macouns as they ripen. Cider and honey. 60 acres to relax, wander and enjoy. Our own peaches are available at the stand from the middle of July until mid-September. Christmas tree cutting begins Friday after Thanksgiving and continues on weekends from 10AM - 4PM, until sold out. (UPDATED by a visitor, UPDATED: July 10, 2011)
A visitor writes on August 13, 2011: (positive) "The people at Doe Orchards are always friendly and professional. We have a large, and sometimes unruly family, and when we go apple picking it's the family and the dog out for a good time. We've always had a great time at Doe Orchards, and the quality, and variety, of the fruit is wonderful."
A visitor writes on July 10, 2011: (positive) "My kids and I have picked blueberries, raspberries, and apples for the past 5 years at Doe orchard. The staff is friendly and always helpful. I do wish the sales folks knew more about the various types of apples though - I've only run in to one lady who could give me hints on which are best for sauce vs pie vs canning, etc. Visitors are generally nice, watch their kids, and use the picking as time with the family as well as general lessons in manners and courtesy. (you hear parents telling their kids which apples are ripe and why you don't just shake the blueberry bushes. Good prices, nice staff, friendly "not Children First" atmosphere - two thumbs up."
Douglas Orchard -apples, blueberries and raspberries.
36 Locust Street, E. Douglas, MA. Phone: 508- 476-2198. Directions: Follow signs from the corner of Main Street and Depot Street, 3 miles to farm. Open: daily 10am to 5pm. Children are welcome with adult supervision, containers provided.
A visitor writes on August 17, 2009: (positive) "Went blueberry picking with my 2 yr old son & had a blast. Older gentleman who was there was very nice and helpful. Kid friendly but a quiet place. We will be going back for sure. If you go, mapquest the address- seems they are having trouble keeping the signs in place, they keep getting taken down so we made a few extra turns to find the farm :) I highly recommend Douglas Orchard if you have little ones (well-behaved or course!)"
Dumas Farm - blueberries
57 Brown Road, Oxford, MA. Phone: 508- 987-2936. Directions: Route 12 to Dana Rd (next to police station). Go to top of hill under Route 395 and take first right (Brown Rd). First house on right (log cabin), PYO in back yard. Open: Friday: 8 to 1pm, Saturday, 8-4pm and Sunday 8-2pm.
Flat Rock Road - Uses natural growing practices, blueberries,
2260 Flat Rock Road, Athol, MA 01331. Phone: 978.249.8429. Email: Helen@flatrockdiscgolf.com. Open: 7 days a week from dawn to dusk; U - Pick blueberries will be early July this year through August or until they are gone; Picking containers available or bring your own; Self - service/Honor system; Already picked berries and flowers available most days. Directions: Route 2 to exit 17. Right at end. Second Right on to Woodlawn Road. Follow to end. Left on to New Sherborn Road. Third Right on to Monson Turnpike. Right at stop on to Flat Rock Road. Parking on Left. Click here for a map and directions. We use natural practices, but are not seeking organic certification. Payment: Cash, only. Flat Rock Road is also home to an 18-hole non-profit disc golf club. Open to the public year round, 7 days a week. Daily passes begin at $5 per person. Family memberships available. Season 2011 seems to be off to a slow start. Please call if you're driving from a distance, otherwise if you're not expecting gallons of blueberries enjoy foraging for enough to make muffins, play some disc golf, picnic and you'll likely be glad you came. (UPDATED: July 17, 2011)
George Hill Orchards, Inc - Minimizes chemical and pesticide use, apples, blackberries, blueberries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, plums, pumpkins, rhubarb, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo, farm animals, birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)
582 George Hill Road, South Lancaster, MA 01561. Phone: 978-365-4331. Alternate Phone: 1-800-699-4331. Open: Check our website for PYO harvest conditions and hours. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Picking updates: Click here for picking updates. Directions: From Route 495, take exit 27 (Bolton/ Stowe). Take Route 117 (west) and drive 5.5 miles. Turn left onto Langen Road and drive 1.7 miles. Turn right onto George Hill Road. George Hill Orchards is up the hill on the left side. Click here for a map and directions. Check out our website for upcoming festivals, activities and harvest dates. We minimize use of pesticides and other chemicals. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. (ADDED: August 16, 2010)
A visitor writes on September 02, 2011: (positive) "This is the most amazing fall family experience! They have awesome parking (not far away from everything like some orchards). You take a hayride (free) out to the orchards, and it's a really pretty ride. You get off at whatever spot you want and then just wait when you're done for a wagon to come by. We went all the way to the Fram House Grille, where there was a band playing outside and people were sitting at picnic tables. Inside, the Grille is decorated like an outdoor farm (very kid friendly). My only complaint is that it was kind of dark inside. There are nice clean indoor bathrooms there! The food is really good and cheap too! We actually were able to eat a whole meal, and my son colored at the kids table with provided pages and crayons while we chatted. The macintosh apples were right there next to the Grille, so we picked our apples and headed back on the wagon. We of course stopped at their gift shop and discovered homemade cider and hot apple cider donuts (again, really resonably priced). Every staff person was friendly and seemed happy to be there. This was our first trip to this orchard but we'll be back every year now!!"
Great Oak Farm - Blueberries and raspberries.
227 Highland St. Berlin, MA. Phone: 978-838-2097. Directions: Exit 26 off Route 495, head west on Route 62 for 1. 5 miles to center. Take right onto Carter St. to Highland St. Farm is 1. 7 miles from Route 62. Mid June to Oct. Open Tuesday-Saturday: 8am-noon and 3-7pm. Sundays, 10am-6pm.
Hammerhead Farm - apples, blueberries
56 Westcott Road, Harvard, MA. Phone: 978-456-6858. Directions: Route 495 to Route 111 West, 1st left onto Codman Road, to right onto Stow Rd & then left at fork onto Westcott Road. Open: Call for times and conditions.
Harvey's Farm - Uses natural growing practices, blueberries, raspberries, prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, picnic area, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours
120 South Street (route 135), Westborough, MA 01581. Phone: 508-366-1545. Fax: 508-366-1477. Email: harveysfarm@yahoo.com. Directions: -Route 90 East (From Points West) or West (From Points East) to Route 495 North. Route 9 West towards Worcester. Route 135 towards WESTBORO.Two Miles on Route 135 takes you to the rotary. As you approach the rotary, a Getty Gas Station and Dairy Queen will be located on your right. Once you’re in the rotary (at the intersection of Routes 135 and 30), continue on Route 135 East towards Hopkinton. Route 135 East for a half mile. Left onto Maple Avenue Right into driveway. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October, November, December. Open: 7 Days a week, April 1st through October 31st, 10am to 6pm; Open 7 Days a week, November 1st through December 3o Thursday, 10am to 5pm; Closed December 31st through March 31st. Blueberries: July 1 through August, Raspberries: Late August through September; Christmas Trees: After Thanksgiving through Christmas. We use natural practices, but are not seeking organic certification. Payment: Cash, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. (UPDATED: August 05, 2008)
A visitor writes on August 23, 2010: (negative) "We had a HORRIBLE experience here a couple years ago. I was walking with my toddler to see the farm animals, holding his hand as we walked down the path. He reached out and gently touched a plant with one finger. The owner ran out of the store screaming at me and told me not to let my kid touch his $19 planter. A little while later, my son touched (again with one finger)an old tractor that looked like it was meant for kids to check out. He came out screaming again and this time told me that he "cared more about my kid than I did." I was completely taken aback. Before leaving, I went into the store and asked if they had a public restroom. The woman's response was that they didn't want my stinky diapers and I should go find a McDonalds. We certainly have never been back!"
Hawk Hill Orchards - apples
83 Carleton Road, Millbury, MA. Phone: (508) 865-4037. Directions: Route 20 West into Auburn to Elm Street. Follow big red apple signs to orchard. Open: August through Christmas, Wednesday through Friday, noon to 5pm. Weekends and Holidays 10am to 5pm. Also have pick-your-own peaches, plums, country store, jams, jellies, cider, etc. Picnic area also available. Pies, Dumplings, bread. Hiking trails. Country Store.
Hazel U-Pick - apples
13 Westcott Road, Harvard, MA. Phone: Phone: 978-456-9092. Directions: West off Route 495 and follow the Hazel U-Pick signs 2 miles to the orchard and our off road parking. Open: Starts September 8, open weekends from 10am to 4:30pm. No limits, come have fun. Schools welcome during week by appt.
Howe's Farm and Garden - Blueberries.
59 Wine Road, New Braintree, MA. Phone: 508- 752-8419. Directions: Please call for picking conditions and directions. Open: typically, 8am-7pm.
Hyland Orchard & Brewery - apples
199 Arnold Road, Sturbridge, MA. Phone: (508) 347-7500. Directions: Off Route 20, just west of Old Sturbridge Village, take Arnold Road and follow 2 miles. Open: September 2 - October 29, Saturday & Sun, 9 am to Dusk. Offer tours of micro-brewery, farm bakery and ice cream. Animal attraction. Free admission.
Indian Head Farm - Blueberries, strawberries, flowers and raspberries.
232 Pleasant Street, Berlin, MA. Phone: 978-838-2942. Email: click here for their contact form. Directions: From Berlin Center, 1. 5 miles South on Pleasant Street, next to cemetery. Or Exit 25 from Route 290, 1 mile toward Berlin Center. Open: daily from 8am until picked out during each season; Please call ahead for conditions. Bring your own containers or purchase at farm. Fall raspberries only. Children welcome with adults. (ADDED: June 30, 2008) (UPDATED: June 10, 2009)
A visitor writes on June 17, 2011: (positive) "I just wanted to let everyone know that this was an exceptional visit today to this farm, the staff was very friendly and helpful, the strawberries are very sweet and big if you go up by the cemetery. The only issue was that the Credit Card machine was down but they were having trouble with there modem, which they were working on trying to get it fixed. "
A visitor writes on August 23, 2010: (positive) "We love to pick blueberries here! They are friendly and not too crowded. They also have a nice farm stand and pick your own flowers.
A visitor writes on June 17, 2010: (positive) "I have grown up picking strawberries at Indian Head Farm every June. This is the best pick-your-own strawberry farm, and I've loved every visit I've made over the past ten years. The strawberries are always delicious, the prices are the most reasonable around, and the people are always friendly. We usually bring our own basket, have them weigh it before we pick, and then pay for our pounds of strawberries after. I think our record is close to ten pounds of strawberries! My family no longer lives in the area, but I'm making the trek out there tomorrow in honor of strawberry season. I can't wait! P.S. While out there, make sure to stop by Balance Rock Farm nearby for ice cream and whipping cream. It's not their own dairy anymore, but it's local and delicious and a really cute place. P.P.S. I LOVE THIS WEBSITE! Thank you so much for keeping it up and organized - it's such a gem.
Keown Orchards - apples
9 McClellan Road, Sutton, MA. Phone: (508) 865-6706. Directions: rom Providence: Route 146 N to Central Turnpike exit. Follow signs towards Northbridge, take 2nd left at Dodge Hill Rd to 1st right onto McClellan Road. Or: Mass Pike to exit 10A (Route 146) South to Central Turnpike exit, follow signs. open: Call for hours of operation and picking conditions. Also visit our farmstand open daily.
Lanni Orchard - apples, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries.
294 Chase Road, Route 13, Lunenburg, MA. Phone: 978-582-6246. Email: mac2go@net1plus.com. Directions: Route 2 West to Route 13 North, approx. 5-10 minutes after Whalom Park on Route 13, more directions. Open: Starts in June, Monday through Sunday, 9am to 6pm. Call ahead for picking conditions. Apples start in September, check wide variety of items at farmstand. Containers optional, children welcome.
Little Rascals Orchard - apples, pumpkins, raspberries (red), Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), snacks and refreshment stand, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals
116 Ayer Road, Harvard, MA 01451. Phone: 978-456-7847. Alternate Phone: 646-812-0110. Fax: 646-225-7244. Email: cg@pickapples.org. Open: for pick-your-own apples Saturdays 10am to 4pm and Sundays 11am to 4pm from September 19 until October 31, or weekdays by appointment; We also host weekend events (open to the public) which include games, music, pick - your - own apples, lunch on the grill, hay rides, petting zoo, and more! Check our website or email us for dates and times, an appointment, or for more information; CASH ONLY accepted. Directions: Little Rascals Orchard is approximately 40 minutes west of Boston. Drive west on Route 2 to exit 38A (Route 110 W/Route 111 S towards Harvard/Worcester). Merge onto Ayer Road/Rt 110/Rt 111. The Farm is about 1/2 mile down on the left. Click here for a map and directions. Pre-filled apple bags at roadside stand available 24/7 NOW until October 31. Payment: Cash, only. (UPDATED: September 04, 2009)
Meadowbrook Orchards - blackberries, blueberries, pumpkins, raspberries, tomatoes, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, and prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms
209 Chace Hill Road, Sterling, MA 01564. Phone: 978-365-7617. Fax: 978-365-7618. Email us at: info@meadowbrookorchards.com. Directions: from Route 190 take exit 6 and follow signs to Meadowbrook. From Route 495 take exit 26 and follow Route 62 north 8.7 miles, take a left onto Chace Hill Road, we are 3/4 of a mile up on the left. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October. Open: 7 days a week, 7am to 6pm, all year round. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard. We have a great bakery with all products made onsite. Plus we have a great lunch consisting of soups and sandwiches.
Mountain Cottage - Blueberries. Pesticide/chemical free.
3 Gregory Road, Princeton, MA. Phone: 978-464-5796. Directions: From Route 140 in Westminster travel 1 mile past Mt. Wachusett, take left onto Gregory Road, farm is 1st house on left. Or 2. 5 miles North from center of Princeton on Mountain Road. Open: weekends and most weekdays, call ahead for hours and conditions.
Nashoba Valley Winery - apples, peaches, plums
100 Wattaquadoc Hill Road, Bolton, MA. Phone: 978-779-5521. Email: email@nashobawinery.com. Directions: Exit 27 off Route 495, take Route 117 West l mile to blinking light, then left one half mile on left. Open: daily from 10am to 5pm during harvest season. Call for calendar of special events. All containers provided. Large groups by appointment, wine tours and tastings on Saturdays and Sundays.
Comments from a visitor: "nashoba valley winery no longer offers strawberry picking" (UPDATED: June 12, 2008)
Nicewicz Farm - apples
116 Sawyer Road, Bolton, MA. Phone: 978-779-6423. Directions: Route 495 to Exit 27, Route 117 west three quarters of a mile, turn left at blinking light in Bolton Center to Wattaquadoc Hill Road, take 4th left onto Sawyer Road to top of hill. Open September through Oct. , 9am to 6pm every day.
Nourse Farm- Blueberries and raspberries.
70 Nourse Street, Westboro, MA. Phone: 508- 366-2644. Directions: 2. 5 miles west on Route 30 from Westboro center. Follow the strawberry to the field. Map on website. Open: June 10 to September 30, please call for hours. Offer 8 of the sweetest varieties of strawberries and 3 varieties of raspberries. CSA: The Pick Your Own Share option is 15 weeks long. It allows the share holder to personally pick strawberries, black raspberries, currants, cherry tomatoes, blueberries, blackberries, and fall raspberries at the farm. The share holder can come 15 times during the season and would be able to pick a choice of: 5 lbs of strawberries; 5 lbs of cherry tomatoes; 3 lbs of raspberries; 3 lbs blueberries; 3 lbs blackberries; 3 lbs of currants; or what ever crop is available. Check out the Pick-Your-Own schedule on the farm web site. Seasonal Price $150.00 (sold out for 2008) Nourse Farm offers both PYO on a daily basis to all comers and CSA PYO for seasonal customers who purchase shares up front.
Odd Pine Farm - blueberries,
122 Ferin Road, Ashburnham, MA 01430. Phone: 978-827-6637. Email: oddpinefarm@yahoo.com. Open: See our webstie for current hours. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Directions: About 4 miles north of Center of Ashburnham, on Route 12 turn Right onto High St. Pass Naukeag Lake and follow signs to farm. See our website for directions. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check. (UPDATED: August 08, 2010)
A visitor writes on July 31, 2010: (positive) "Spent a couple hours picking blueberries this morning at this wonderful farm! What a gem of a place. Wish I had known about it long before now. Acres and acres of high bush blueberries at $1.40 a pound. They even have plastic buckets that you can purchase right there (I got the 2-1/2 gallon size for $1.75). My banana blueberry bread is in the oven right now :-)"
A visitor writes on November 11, 2009: (positive) "I just found out about Odd Pine Farm at the very end of blueberry picking season this year and brought my husband and three sons there the last weekend they were open...what a wonderful place! They still had plenty of delicious blueberries to pick, were extremely polite and helpful, and are located in a peaceful country setting. I also thought it was great that they had a section set aside for handicapped accessible picking as well. We ended up picking ten pounds of blueberries and paying a fraction of what they would cost in the grocery store. We had a great time and will certainly go back next year!"
Old Frog Pond Farm - ORGANIC, apples, raspberries,
38 Eldridge Road, Harvard, MA 01451. Phone: 978-456-8130. Email: organic@oldfrogpondfarm.com. Directions: Old Frog Pond Farm is located 5 minutes from the Harvard/Route 111 exit of Route 495. Take Route 111 West toward Harvard and turn immediately left onto Codman Hill Road. At the stop sign at the intersection with Stow Road, turn left again. Then take the first left again onto Eldridge Road. The farm will be on your right. Fruit boxes and bags are on the front porch near the "Open" sign. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in August, September, October. Open: Wednesday through Sunday 10am to 6pm and Holidays. We are certified organic for all crops! Payment: Cash, only. (ADDED: September 23, 2008)
Overlook Farm - Strawberries, flowers, honey
15 Long Hill Road, Brookfield, MA. Phone: 1-508-930-7379. Open: Call for for hours and availability. Directions: Call for directions. Payment: Cash, Check . (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: June 23, 2011)
A visitor writes on June 23, 2011: (positive) "We liked the farm, we went strawberry picking with our home-school group a couple of years ago, and went again this year with my kids,(last years strawberries were hit by frost so we didn't go) always friendly help, and great for the kids, lovely old farm -highly recommend this farm! I know that the honey is free of everything and they practice sustainable farming, don't know if they are certified organic."
Parker Orchards - apples (Does anyone have a current status for them? Their phone wasn't working when I called) UPDATE: September 22, 2008
11 Spring Road, Westboro, MA. Phone: (508) 366-9618. Directions: Mass Pike exit 11A. North on 495 to Route 9 west to Westboro center exit. At center rotary Route 135 west to Upton Road Spring Road is 3rd left from Upton Road. Farm on your right. Open: Call for hours. Petting Zoo.
Phil's Apples - apples and peaches
24 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard, MA. Phone: (978) 456-3361. Directions: Route 2 West to 110/111 Harvard Exit. Take 1st right onto Old Shirley Road, leads to Prospect Hill Road, 1 mile before Fruitlands Museum. Open weekends and holidays from 8am to 6pm; Weekdays, 8am to 6pm; Dates for Picking and Variatals. September to Nov. Children welcome. Macs, Red Delicious, Cortlands, Macouns, Enterprise and Gold Rush varieties. 1995 state cider winner. Cider pressed on weekends and holidays.
A visitor writes on September 24, 2011: (positive) "My sister and I went to an orchard my nephew and I visited last year in Harvard, MA. It is Phil's Apple Orchard. This place is SUPER! Phil keeps it simple with just PYO peaches and apples. He also makes the best apple cider you have ever tasted! You can watch him press cider on weekends.We picked peaches on Tuesday, Sept. 20th and also some apples from trees marked as 'ripe.' The peaches are juicy, large, sweet and delicious. Freshly picked ripe peaches are highly perishable and need to be processed almost immediately by eating, freezing, canning, baking etc. Call [tel. # listed at website] first to hear recording of what is available for PYO. Phil has a dozen or so varieties of apples that become ripened each week [indicated by colored ribbons on trees and chart at entrance to cider house] into the beginning of November. All varieties of Phils' PYO apples are fresh, crisp and scrumptious. Yes, Phils' Apples is a 'go to' orchard on our list for all the above."
A visitor writes on October 05, 2009: (positive) "I was impressed by the size of the orchard and how friendly Phil was. He and his brother run the orchard. They also sell hand-pressed cider which I bought a gallon of! I went there the last day of the peach season and they were perfect for eating and very juicy. There were a lot of different types of apples. I had never had honeycrisp before and they were very good! They also had courtlands, which are my favorite. "
Ragged Hill Orchard - apples, blueberries and raspberries.
94 John Gilbert Road, West Brookfield, MA. Phone: 508- 867-2187. Directions: 3 miles North of common to Wickaboag Valley Road to Ragged Hill Orchard. Or from Route 9 turn to Pierce Road to Ragged Hill Road. Children must be accompanied by adults. Open: Call ahead for hours and picking conditions; In season, PYO apples open daily 9am to 6pm.
Red Apple Farm - apples, blueberries and raspberries.
455 Highland Avenue, Phillipston, MA. 800-628-4851. For more information please Contact Us. Directions: Route 2 (exit 19), follow signs (2 miles) to farm. Open: daily, 9am to 6pm. Nov. and December . from 9 am to 5pm. Containers provided, children welcome, farm animals, forest trails and hayrides, school tours, 48 apple varieties with one tree with 108 varieties grafted on it! Host Birthday parties, and company outings.
Sholan Farms - apples, pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, tractor-pulled hay rides, Pick-your-own apples, Honey from hives on the farm, raspberries, picnic area, school tours
1125 Pleasant Street, Leominster, MA. Phone: 978-840-3276. Fax: 978-534-0363. Email: info@sholanfarms.com. Directions: Rte 2 to Rte 12 S (North Main Street); Stay on Rte 12 to center of town (past Post Office on right through lights). Take Pleasant Street (straight ahead); 3 miles from the center of Leominster. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Crops are usually available in August, September, October. Open: DAILY, 10am to 6pm. Payment: Cash, only. Offer entertainment, hayrides and group tours. We are located on 169 acres overlooking Northern Worcester County.
A visitor writes on August 16, 2009: "Sholan Farms located in Leominster MA is a city owned farm which was purchased from the former owner to keep the land from being turned into housing. Great views in a VERY rural setting, operated by volunteers. Beginning the 4th week in August 09, they will start picking apples. Many varieties available throughout the season, as well as fall raspberries. "
Silvermine Farm - strawberries
96 Eight Lots Road, Sutton, MA. Phone: (508)-865-5335. Directions: Five miles West of Route 146 (Boston Road to Eight Lotts Road) 2 miles North of Central Turnpike (West Sutton Road to Eight Lotts Road.). Open: Strawberries: early June to mid-July, daily 8-7pm.
Stony Knoll Farm - Blueberries.
800 Pleasant Street, Rochdale, MA. Phone: 508- 892-8884. Directions: From Route 9, South on Route 56, take right at Stafford Street, right at 1st stop sign (Pleasant Street). Farm is one half mile down on Pleasant St. From Route 20, north onto Route 56. Take left at blinking light onto Stafford St. Take right at stop sign (Pleasant St). Open: July through early October, please call for hours and picking conditions.
Stowe Farm - apples, pumpkins, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, birthday parties
15 Stowe Rd, Millbury, MA 01527. Phone: 508-865-9860. Email: jay@stowefarm.com. Open: see website for current hours. Directions: I-290 to exit 6A - US-20E/RT-146/Auburn. Bear right onto off-ramp at exit 6A to US-20. Continue onto US-20 for 1.1 miles to Elm Street, Turn right onto Elm Street; Turn left onto Brook Street 0.49 miles to Stowe Rd Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, only. We offer Pick your own apples, pony and horse rides, petting zoo, tractor pulled hay rides, horse drawn wagon rides, face painting, balloons, kids craft workshops, food, playground, special events and more!! Our NEWEST attraction is a MUST - mining for gemstone, fossil or arrowheads. Wonderful place for birthday parties!! Visit us on the web for more information.(UPDATED: March 03, 2010).
Sunburstbee Farm - blueberries,
44 Rawson Street PO Box 287, N. Uxbridge, MA 01538. Phone: 508-234-9859. Email: sunburstbee@yahoo.com. Directions: Rt. 146, take Lackey Dam Road exit and go East off the ramp to right on McGuire. Take next right at 4 way stop onto Rawson Street We are about a half mile up on the right. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in July, August. Open: Check by phone for times during the weeks of July 15th to the end of August. Mid July to end of August. Payment: Cash, only. (ADDED: June 05, 2008)
A visitor writes on July 26, 2010: (positive) "This is the place to go blueberry picking where ever you live in Massachusetts. Debbie and Bill are so nice and personable! They have over 900 blueberry bushes so there is NO shortage of fruit. They have such sweet berries and big! Highly recommended and we will be back!"
A visitor writes on July 11, 2010: (positive) "My daughters (8 & 10 yrs old) and I went blueberry picking at Sunburst farm today. From start to finish our experience was perfect! Debbie and Bill gave us a very warm welcome. Bill showed us what area had the ripest berries and repeatedly said we could pick wherever we wanted. He was very sweet with kids, showing them how to pick. This was such a nice change from farms that give kids a scowl or the ones that only allow you to pick from one bush of their choosing. At $2.75 a pound, $12 bought us enough berries to make treats all week. We'll definitely be back!"
Tougas Family Farm - Apples, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, flowers, nectarines, peaches, plums, pumpkins, raspberries, rhubarb, winter squash, strawberries, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field and prepicked produce, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides, wagon rides, face painting, petting zoo
246 Ball Street, Northboro, MA 01532. Phone: 508-393-6406. picking stand: 508-393-6470. Fax: 508 393 1834. Email us at: tougasfarm@tougasfarm.com. Directions: From I290 take exit #24 (Church St), turn towards Bolyston, follow signs up Ball St 1.5 miles And for a map to our farm, Click here. Click here for picking updates. Crops are usually available in May, June, July, August, September, October, November. Open: Hours vary by season. Always call or check picking conditions on our web site. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. We have been declared a "Family Friendly" business, in addition to fruit to pick we operate a farm kitchen which features fresh fruit desserts, ice cream, baked goods and light lunch. Barnyard animals and a "Farmyard" playground keep the kids happy.
Note: visitors (September 22, 2008) reported that there are purchase requirements in order to enter the orchards. Be sure to check their website (see this page) for the costs and current picking conditions. For photos and a blog from one visitor to the farm, see this page. (UPDATED: July 05, 2009)
A visitor writes on October 11, 2010: (neutral) "Yes, this farm is well run and has everything--animals, hay/wagon rides, food, and good PYO fruit, however, it will be a long time before I go back, especially for apples. It is SO crowded, the lines are ridiculously long, and the prices are sky-high. If you want to take your kids, they each have to get a tote or tray (applies or strawberries) for a flat rate; you could easily drop 50 bucks, and you feel like you're at a theme park, not the country. Choose one of the smaller, less popular farms if you want a lovely, reasonably priced PYO experience."
A visitor writes on August 23, 2010: (positive) "We love to visit pick your own farms. I have been going to Tougas since I was a kid and take my son several times a year. We love to pick strawberries, cherries, and peaches and enjoy their cider donuts and playground. They are very kid friendly but do get extremely busy on weekends particularly in the fall.
Vandervalk Farm - blueberries, pumpkins, gift shop, restrooms, picnic area, birthday parties, school tours
25 Lovell St, Mendon, MA 01756. Phone: 508-478-8733. Email: vandervalkfarm@comcast.net. Open: Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Picking updates: Click here for picking updates. Directions: Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check. (ADDED: July 05, 2009)
Westward Orchards Farm - apples, blueberries
Mass Ave. Route 111, Harvard, MA. Phone: 978-456-8363. Directions: one quarter mile West of Route 495 on Route 111. Visit our second location located across from the Fruitlands Museums on Prospect Hill Road. Open: Call for more information; daily 10am to 6pm. For PYO apples open 10am to 4pm; Closed Tuesdays. Picking updates. We supply containers. No pets. Also visit our retail farm store.
Wojcik's Farm - apples, pumpkins, Honey from hives on the farm, prepicked produce, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, birthday parties, school tours
65 Milk Street, Blackstone, MA 01504. Phone: 508-883-9220. Fax: 508-883-9506. Email: jojokabobo@comcast.net. Directions: And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in August, September, October. Open: Fridays 5 pm to 9 pm; Saturdays and Sundays 10 am - 9 pm. We are open mid-August thru late October; Our hours are Fridays 5 pm to 9 pm; Saturday and Sundays 10 am to 9 pm. Payment: Cash, Visa/MasterCard. Hayrides are offered to the apple orchard, pumpkin patch and the 6 acre corn maze. Visit our farm store with our own produce, farm-fresh honey and home made cookies, pies and apple crisp. Also, we have a concession stand serving hot/cold cider, pretzels, hot dogs, pizza and ice cream. (UPDATED: September 16, 2008)

Farmer's Markets, Farm Stands and Roadside Stands, Etc.
(NOT pick-your-own, unless they are also listed above)

Worcester County

Foppema's Farm - strawberries
1612 Hill Street, Northbridge, MA. Phone: (508)-234-6711. Directions: Central Turnpike Exit off Route 146. East towards Northbridge, 2.5 miles. At flashing light, take right. Farm .4 miles on right. Open: Monday through Saturday 9am to 6pm. Closed Sundays. Please, call ahead for picking conditions.
A visitor writes on June 10, 2011: Foppema's is open for the 2011 season and is a delightful farm stand. However, after a 2010 crop failure they relocated the strawberries and can no longer offer pick your own. I believe they have no other pyo. "
George Hill Orchards, Inc - Minimizes chemical and pesticide use, Baked goods, Preserves, jams, jellies, apples, peaches, pumpkins, Other fruit or veg, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo, farm animals, birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)
582 George Hill Road, South Lancaster, MA 01561. Phone: 978-365-4331. Alternate Phone: 1-800-699-4331. Open: Check our website for PYO harvest conditions and hours. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Market updates: Click here for updates. Directions: From Route 495, take exit 27 (Bolton/ Stowe). Take Route 117 (west) and drive 5.5 miles. Turn left onto Langen Road and drive 1.7 miles. Turn right onto George Hill Road. George Hill Orchards is up the hill on the left side. Click here for a map and directions. Check out our website for upcoming festivals, activities and harvest dates. We minimize use of pesticides and other chemicals. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. (ADDED: August 16, 2010)
Little Rascals Orchard - Uncovered outdoor market, apples, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), snacks and refreshment stand, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals
116 Ayer Road, Harvard, MA 01451. Phone: 978-456-7847. Alternate Phone: 646-812-0110. Fax: 646-225-7244. Email: cg@pickapples.org. Open: Roadside stand is NOW OPEN! Come get your pre - filled bag of apples any time 24/7 at our stand from now until October 31; Check our website or email us for more information; CASH ONLY accepted. Directions: Little Rascals Orchard is approximately 40 minutes west of Boston. Drive west on Route 2 to exit 38A (Route 110 W/Route 111 S towards Harvard/Worcester). Merge onto Ayer Road/Rt 110/Rt 111. The Farm is about 1/2 mile down on the left. Click here for a map and directions. Pre-filled apple bags at roadside stand available 24/7 NOW until October 31; We also host public weekend events; Check website for details. Payment: Cash, only. (UPDATED: August 26, 2009)
Stillman Farm - Raspberries, strawberries.
1399 Lancaster Avenue, Lunenburg, MA. Phone: 978-537-3342. Directions: From Route 2: take the Lunenburg/Lancaster exit, turn left onto Leominster/Shirley Road, bear right onto Lancaster Ave. toward Lunenburg. Open: daily 9am to 7pm, from mid May until mid June; call for current conditions before you go. (UPDATED: June 10, 2009)
A visitor writes on June 08, 2011: "Hi, great website. Just an FYI. Stillman Farm does not do PYO strawberries. I spoke to them yesterday (6/7/11). They have great produce at their farm stands and are very friendly and accommodating. IPM, too which I love! "
Sugar Hollow Farm - Wide variety of seasonal, locally grown fruits and vegetables, all produce is certified organically grown, Indoor market, Fresh local eggs, Crafts, artistic products, etc, apples, beans, beets, blueberries, broccoli, carrots, cranberries, cucumbers, currants (red and black), grapes, herbs/spices, lavender, melons, onions, peas, peppers, pumpkins, raspberries (red), saskatoons, summer squash, winter squash, strawberries, tomatoes, other vegetables, gift shop, farm animals, school tours, events at your location (call for info)
425 Queen Lake Rd, Phillipston, MA 01331. Phone: 978-652-5186. Email: lroy152@comcast.net. Open: Monday to Saturday 8 am until 5 pm. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Directions: From rte 2 East get off on exit 19 follow the signs - from rte 2 west get off on exit 21 follow the signs to rte 101 - we are on rte 101, follow the Sugar Hollow Farm signs. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check, WIC Vouchers. Click here for our Facebook page. Demonstrations on natural wool dyeing, natural food preservation, composting everything set to help you live more naturally Good for You, Good for the World. We specialize in all natural products and workshops designed to teach environmental awarenes and to empower people to make healthy choices for their families. Workshops designed also specific to children. (ADDED: May 22, 2010)

Meats, Milk and Eggs:

Worcester County

Carter and Stevens Farm - Uses natural growing practices, Maple Syrup from trees on the farm, Fresh eggs
500 West St, Barre, MA 01005. Phone: 978-355-4940. Email: carterandstevensfarm@hotmail.com. Directions: Click here for a map and directions. We use natural practices, but are not yet certified Organic. Payment: Cash, only. (UPDATED: November 24, 2009)

Horse Rides and More:

Worcester County

Stowe Farm - Riding academies, schools, snacks, refreshments and/or concessions, Hiking trails, School tours, No pets please, horse-drawn hayrides, Horse-drawn sleigh rides (weather permitting), restrooms, picnic area, face painting, birthday parties
15 Stowe Rd, Millbury, MA 01527. Phone: 508-865-9860. Email: jay@stowefarm.com. Open: see website for current hours. Directions: Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, only. We offer a 25ft tall rock climbing wall, panning for gemstones, mecanical bull, moon bounce, pony rides, moo-choo cow train, and summer horse camp. (UPDATED: March 03, 2010)

Farm Venues for Events, Activities, Parties and Meetings:

Worcester County

George Hill Orchards, Inc - Minimizes chemical and pesticide use, Lighting, Wedding Ceremony, Wedding Reception, Wedding Rehearsal Dinner, Birthday parties, Business outings, Corporate events, Filming or photo shoots, School and educational groups, Daycare and preschool groups, Kitchen facilities available, Catering available, Restaurant onsite, You may bring your own food, Tables and chairs are Provided, Some Linens and table silverware are provided, Bring your own linens and table silverware, Servers Must Be Licensed for alcohol, B&B nearby, Apple Orchard, Peach/Nectarine, Apricot, etc. Orchard, Vegetables, or bush fruit, Pumpkin patch, sheep, goats, horses, chickens, pigs, other animals, Beautiful rural setting, Mountain views, horse riding, golf nearby, Computer Projector, Internet (Ethernet), Internet (Wireless), Microphone, Sound System, Free Onsite Lot parking lot, Within an easy drive to an Interstate road, Bride and groom dressing areas available, children welcome, Smoking allowed in designated areas, Vegetarian meals available, meeting room available, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo, farm animals, birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)
582 George Hill Road, South Lancaster, MA 01561. Phone: 978-365-4331. Alternate Phone: 1-800-699-4331. Open: Check our website for PYO harvest conditions and hours. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Venue updates: Click here for updates. Directions: From Route 495, take exit 27 (Bolton/ Stowe). Take Route 117 (west) and drive 5.5 miles. Turn left onto Langen Road and drive 1.7 miles. Turn right onto George Hill Road. George Hill Orchards is up the hill on the left side. Click here for a map and directions. Check out our website for upcoming festivals, activities and harvest dates;. We minimize use of pesticides and other chemicals. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. Beautiful farm designed for school field trips, family outing and also business, group and corporate events. Hilltop restarurant opens in fall with live music on Sundays. Hayrides, petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, pies, cider donuts as well as BBQ, soups, sandwiches and various foods produced on site. Home of Apple tree theater and the Treemendous maze. (ADDED: August 16, 2010)
Stowe Farm - Birthday parties, Corporate events, School and educational groups, Other Private Parties, Restaurant onsite, Apple Orchard, Pumpkin patch, sheep, goats, horses, chickens, pigs, llamas/alpacas, other animals, Beautiful rural setting, Free Onsite Lot parking lot, Within an easy drive to an Interstate road, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, birthday parties
15 Stowe Rd, Millbury, MA 01527. Phone: 508-865-9860. Email: jay@stowefarm.com. Open: see website for current hours. Directions: Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, only. (UPDATED: March 03, 2010)

Home Canning Kits

Features:

Everything you need to get started with waterbath canning (fruits,pickles, jams, jellies, salsa, sauces and tomatoes)
21-1/2 qt. enamel water bath canner
Funnel, jar lifter, lid lifter, bubble freer spatula
Ball Blue Book

This is the same type of standard canner that my grandmother used to make everything from applesauce to jams and jellies to tomato and spaghetti sauce. This complete kit includes everything you need and lasts for years: the canner, jar rack, jar grabber tongs, lid lifting wand, a plastic funnel, labels, bubble freer, and the bible of canning, the Ball Blue Book. It's much cheaper than buying the items separately. You'll never need anything else except jars & lids (and the jars are reusable)! There is also s simple kit with just the canner and rack, and a pressure canner, if your want to do vegetables (other than tomatoes). To see more canners, of different styles, makes and prices, click here!

Average Customer Review:
Usually ships in 1-2 business days

This page was updated on 8-Jul-2011

Remember to ALWAYS call the farm or orchard BEFORE you go - weather, heavy picking and business conditions can always affect their hours and crops!

PYO Farms in Other Countries: [ Australia ] [ Canada ] [ South Africa ] [ New Zealand ] [ United Kingdom ]

Our other free, informative sites you may like:

EHSO.com - Environmental health and safety information and guidance for the home
ConsumerFraudReporting.org - Information about identity theft, frauds and scams; how to report them and how to protect your identity.
FitnessAndHealthScience.org - Practical fitness, health and diet information that works.
And our other related websites!

Care to Donate to help me keep the website going? Donate to me at Benevia here:

Use the feedback form for questions, comments and feedback about farms - Use this form suggest a farm to add to the website?
Or as a last result (I reply to the forms FIRST),write me at

All images and text Copyright © Benivia, LLC 2004 - 2010 All rights reserved.
Disclaimer and Privacy Policy
Permission is given to link to any page on www.pickyourown.org
Looking for jobs on farms? Farmers: If you'd like to advertise or have your own web page(s), click here!

Remember to ALWAYS call the farm or orchard BEFORE you go - weather, heavy picking and business conditions can always affect their hours and crops!

PYO Farms in Other Countries: [ Australia ] [ Canada ] [ South Africa ] [ New Zealand ] [ United Kingdom ]

Our other free, informative sites you may like:

EHSO.com - Environmental health and safety information and guidance for the home
ConsumerFraudReporting.org - Information about identity theft, frauds and scams; how to report them and how to protect your identity.
FitnessAndHealthScience.org - Practical fitness, health and diet information that works.
And our other related websites!

Care to Donate to help me keep the website going? Donate to me at Benevia here:

Use the feedback form for questions, comments and feedback about farms - Use this form suggest a farm to add to the website?
Or as a last result (I reply to the forms FIRST),write me at

All images and text Copyright © Benivia, LLC 2004 - 2010 All rights reserved.
Disclaimer and Privacy Policy
Permission is given to link to any page on www.pickyourown.org
Looking for jobs on farms? Farmers: If you'd like to advertise or have your own web page(s), click here!

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