The Best Places to Pick Strawberries in Connecticut

Lyman Orchards has been a family-owned business since 1741. The large farm overlooks the Connecticut River and now has a public golf course, as well as a corn maze in the fall. Head here in June for the picking season for juicy strawberries and then return throughout the summer for blueberries and raspberries.

Located in Shelton, the 400-acre Jones Family Farms is a perfect place to go strawberry picking. The working farm offers visitors the unique experience of harvesting seasonal crops such as strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins, Christmas trees, and much more. For a fun post-harvest meal, check out Jones’ kitchen and winery classes. On Fridays in the summer, there are “Wine Downs” in the tasting room to enjoy with friends.

Located in Guilford, Bishop’s Orchards is a perfect place to go and pick sweet strawberries. There is also a winery on the property, making the farm an ideal way to spend a weekend afternoon. Be sure to come back throughout the summer for peaches, blueberries, raspberries, and much more. The on-site Farm Market is also a great place to shop for local produce, artisanal products, and foods. Take advantage of their bulk section in the shop to save money, and treat yourself to a fresh bakery item.

Ellsworth Hill Orchard & Berry Farm is family owned and operated, and besides fresh strawberries, it’s also one of the only places in the area that offers cherry picking. Choose juicy strawberries and cherries to bring home to enjoy or turn them into jam for later in the year. They have raspberries, plums, and peaches throughout the summer as well. Children will also love the Lionel Train that is on display on weekends. Unlike many other orchards, pets are also welcome in certain designated areas, so bring Fido along to enjoy the afternoon.

Easy Pickin’s Orchard in Enfield is a family-owned farm that has peaches, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for picking all summer long. Stop by in the fall for many apple varieties, as well as plentiful herbs and vegetables. Strawberry picking is only available for a few weeks of the year, so get over to the orchard as soon as possible to enjoy the juicy fruit. Easy Pickin’s also operates a CSA farm-share, ideal for local families.

Dondero Orchards is celebrating more than 100 years of history. This orchard farm offers up plenty of summer activities, including pick-your-own strawberries (daily in June), and raspberries or blueberries in July. After filling up your basket, you can pay by the pound. Also, don’t forget to check out the bakery, which sells homemade pies, jams, and award-winning dill pickles and pesto!

Deeply Rooted Farms has a pick-your-own strawberry season that starts in early May and extends through June. Wander through five acres of berry fields to find the ripest, most delicious fruits. Be sure to come back for other types of berries and vegetables throughout the summer as the farm plants many different heirlooms.