Where to go strawberry picking with kids in the Midwest

Family funGuides
Written By Jeanine Bobenmoyer

Zomg, how is strawberry season already here? Don't know about you but one of our family's favorite ways to kickoff Summer is by visiting local farms, indulging in some fresh u-pick strawberries, and even snagging a little ice cream on the way home.

Two of our favorite local spots in Indiana are Beasley's Orchard in Danville and Spencer Farm of Noblesville because both offer activities for the whole family - and acres of land to explore while you visit! If you're searching for the best place to take the kids strawberry picking, we've created a whole list of strawberry farms divided by Midwest state below.

When is strawberry season in the Midwest?

The strawberry picking season varies by region and climate. In the Midwest, strawberries are typically in season from end of May to around June 15th.

The exact timing can vary depending on your location in the Midwest and the weather conditions - for example northwest Indiana experienced an unseasonably warm Spring, leading a few strawberry patches to begin sprouting in mid May this year, when normally these wouldn't blossom until late May around Memorial Day.

It's always a good idea to check the opening date with your local farms or u-pick fields before making the car ride out - most post daily updates either on their website or social media pages. 

Are all strawberry fields u-pick?

Not necessarily. Some farms will offer pre-picked strawberries for sale from their own produce crops. And others may offer limited u-pick fields that once crop availability is gone, close for the season (sometimes earlier than expected!), so again, it's a good idea to check a farm's Facebook page or other contact sites for info before you go.

Other things to know before you go

Most u-pick fields and farms charge based on the weight of the produce you pick. Typically they will provide bags or boxes to drop your goods in, but you might want to bring your own buckets for easy transport home.

Some locations that sell fresh strawberries might not accept credit cards (we know of a couple offhand!), so check the website before you go to determine if an ATM stop is needed.

Also while many farms don't charge an admission fee like they would for say a Fall festival - there might be other activities onsite like train rides or barnyard games that do require an extra cost.

And last, farms can have acres of strawberries, but they can also sell out! Double check the picking conditions before you go, or settle for some pre-picked baskets when you arrive and just indulge in a fun day at the farm doing other activities!

Where to go strawberry picking with the kids in the Midwest...

 

Indiana

Beasley's Orchard, Danville

Bell's Strawberry Farm, Hagerstown

Berry Best Farm, Nabb

Driving Wind Farm, Indianapolis

Hilger Family Farm, Fort Wayne

Johnson's Farm Produce, Hobart

Landess Farm, Daleville

Spencer Farm, Noblesville

Waterman's Family Farm, Indianapolis

YOUR NEXT READ:

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Ok here's the thing, I may have missed a good strawberry farm or two in this list, and if so, don't be shy - hit us up on Instagram so we can add it! 

Jeanine Bobenmoyer

Jeanine is a mom of tweens, yoga-addict, Michigan native, and avid reader. Her dream vacation includes her family and national parks. Jeanine is a veteran of the advertising industry and a former editor.

As theCityMoms’ Chief Executive Officer, she oversees our brand strategy and business operations, and regularly represents theCityMoms via TV, livestream, and other appearances with our media partners. Connect with Jeanine on Instagram and LinkedIn. 

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