Visit One of Our Top 20 U-Pick Farms in Michigan
You’re never too far from a U-Pick farm in Michigan.
Whether you’re seeking the local farm markets, roadside stands lined with fresh fruits and vegetables or a U pick farm, you don’t have to look too far for freshly-picked fruits and vegetables. That’s just one of the charms of Michigan: high high-quality fruits and veggies are always nearby.
Surrounded by the Great Lakes, the fertile land across the state is dotted with orchards and farms growing every type of fresh produce from tart cherries to apples to sweet corn and beyond.
When you need plan your day trips for the family, look no further than the local family farm. It’s a perfect way spend time together while promoting healthy eating habits.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about Michigan UPicks and scroll to the bottom of this post for our interactive map of top U-Pick farms in Michigan.
All About Michigan U-Picks
Whether you’re looking to hike the Sleeping Bear Dunes, kayak the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore or sprawl on a magnificent Great Lake beach, Michigan has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor activities.
However, if you are looking for a less strenuous outing that is both for leisure and practical, U-pick farms are just for you.
Blueberries and raspberries, apples and peaches, sweet corn and green beans…all of these delicious fresh crops and Michigan fruits and vegetables are within easy reach, and often just a short drive away no matter where you’re located in Michigan.
If you’re interested in having the freshest produce possible, “farm-to-table,” as they say, you’re going to want to visit a U-pick farm.
PRO-TIP: Did you know that you can pick your own fruits and vegetables from many of these farms?
From the upper peninsula to southwest Michigan; from Traverse City and Grand Rapids to southeast Michigan, farms offering upick and already-picked produce are one of the highlights of the summer and fall.
U Pick Fruit and Veggies: Family-Fun Activities
Upicks are great for kids, too.
Children are able to learn how to harvest produce themselves: which crops grow in what season and how these plants grow.
Both strawberry picking, raspberry picking and blueberry picking are perfect activities for families; a great way to bond over delicious fruits that just may make their way into a family dessert to be shared later on.
During strawberry season, a morning picking strawberries and and afternoon spent making strawberry jam can be both fun and educational, and create some lasting memories, too.
What is a U-Pick Farm?
If you’re not familiar with U picks, don’t worry.
As lifelong Michigan natives, we’re frequent customers of local farms, and are happy to fill you in on everything you ever wanted to know about U picks in Michigan. Also known as a Pick-Your-Own farms, U-Pick farms are farm operations that give their guests the opportunity to pick their own produce at an inexpensive price.
Because guests are able to sample the crops while they search for their perfect fruit or vegetable, a fee to enter the field is generally needed. Regardless of the fee, U-pick farms are still more affordable since there is no longer a middleman.
U-pick farms are a great way to support local farms while providing your family with healthy handpicked produce.
Environmentally-Friendly UPick Farms
U Pick’s made good sense environmentally, too.
If you are the type to consider the environment, this farm-to-table operation results in less emissions being released as the local produce is being moved at a shorter distance.
Around the 1930s, produce prices were unable to meet the costs of harvesting and packaging, thus resulting in farmers encouraging their customers to visit their land to choose and gather their own produce.
From then, farmers learned that this strategy became a cost saver for both them and their customers. As for the customers, they learned that this made an enjoyable day trip for their families. Rain, wind, or sunshine, no matter the weather, U-pick farms are many families’ choice in spending a day out with each other.
When you visit these farms, you are given the opportunity to feel accomplished and adventurous at the same time while supporting the local economy.
Michigan U Pick Farms in Southeast Michigamn
Blakes Lyon Township (Formerly Erwin Orchards)
61475 Silver Lake Rd, South Lyon, MI 48178; (248) 437-0150
U-Pick: Apples
Baclks Lyon Township is a popular location among Southeast Michiganders in the Fall. Here, visitors are invited to partake in corn mazes, petting zoo, wagon rides and, of course, their U-pick farm.
In this pet friendly location, guests may pick out a variety of apples of their choosing. The type of apples they offer are Paula Red, Ginger Gold, Jonamac, McIntosh, Gala, Honey Crisp, Northern Spy, Ida Red, Golden Delicious, Jonagold, Mutsu, and Red Delicious.
After spending some time in the orchard, enjoy Erwin’s famous apple cider drinks and donuts by their field of sunflowers that make for a beautiful backdrop in your next Instagram post.
Other seasonal U-pick crops they have are asparagus, sweet cherries, red and yellow raspberries, and pumpkins. Blakes has a lot to offer for those that choose to visit.
When you choose to stop by, be sure to remember that they only accept cash payments.
Blueville Acres Blueberry Farm
38093 Judd Rd, Belleville, MI 48111; (734) 252-6751
U-Pick: Blueberries
A successful family outing will be made at this no-spray blueberry farm. This farm avoids spraying their products with pesticides, or other chemicals, and uses organic practices by growing their crops with only water and sunshine.
Visitors can expect to pay using cash only.
Hazen’s Blueberry Farm
Address: 1144 Peavy Rd, Howell, MI 48843; (517) 548-1841
U-Pick: Blueberries
Upon arrival to Hazen’s Blueberry Farm, you are welcomed with rows of high-quality blueberries there for your own choosing.
These fruits are prepared to be picked by you or your kids for that blueberry dessert your family has been aching to bake all week. The family-owned farm uses natural growing practices and is a great place to bring family and friends whilst keeping away from others as they have over 25 acres of blueberry bushes.
Every summer families flock to Hazen’s for their affordable fruits and deliciously baked goods that are made in their on-ground bakery. Customers are asked to place an order online for their homemade ice cream and sweets.
This U-pick farm accepts cash, checks, and cards.
Gust Brother’s Pumpkin Farm
13639 Mulberry Rd, Ottawa Lake, MI 49267; (517) 486-2237
U Pick: Pumpkins
As you continue your search for the right farm for you, consider the Gust Brother’s Pumpkin Farm for your vegetable needs. Be ready to experience the lives of farmers as you harvest your mixed and matched items. For individuals who don’t wish to get their hands dirty, prepicked items are sold.
Not only do they allow visitors to pick their own produce, but they also allow them to cut and create their own flower bouquets. When the day begins to wind down, make sure to see the farm’s sunflower trails – admission fee required.
The Gust Brother’s Pumpkin Farm only accepts cash and checks at this time. If you normally do not carry around cash, don’t fret, they have an ATM machine on grounds.
Long Family Orchard, Farm & Cider Mill
1540 E Commerce Rd, Commerce Charter Twp, MI 48382; (248) 360-3774
U-Pick: Apples, Pumpkins
Another great destination to visit during the Fall season is the Long Family Orchard, Farm & Cider. They supply guests a variety of treats and activities such as apple cider slushies, donuts, bottles of apple cider, posing with the scarecrows, pet farms, hayrides, and more.
When arriving to their U-pick apple orchards or pumpkin patch, guests are driven in on wagons.
Be sure to see their famous well-known Red Shed where they sell produce from garden vegetables to bread.
The Long Family Orchard, Farm & Cider Mill accepts both credit and debit cards
Polk Around Farm
1200 Bald Eagle Lake Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462; (810) 814-3699
U-Pick: Blueberries
An inviting family-owned farm that offers a small u-pick blueberry operation is the Polk Around Farm. If you are wanting to plan a short, but intimate, trip, then this is the farm for you.
The Polk Around Farm has a honey and maple syrup products that customers absolutely love. Support and take advantage of what this smaller farm has to offer before they sell out.
They accept PayPal, cash, and checks.
Rowe’s Produce Farm
10570 Martz Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197; (734) 482-8538
UPick: Strawberries, Sugar Snap Peas, Engish Shelling Peas
This countryside aesthetically pleasing orchard is ideal for individuals that want to drive straight to the fields where they would like to pick.
Before visiting the U-pick strawberry and peas farm, it is encouraged that visitors call ahead of time to ask about the state of the produce.
Rowe’s Produce Farm accepts cash and credit payment methods.
Verellen Orchards & Cider Mill
63260 Van Dyke, Washington, MI 48095; (586) 752-2989
U-Pick: Cherries, Strawberries
Known for their U-pick orchard cherry experience is the Verellen Orchards & Cider Mill.
Many nature-enthusiasts that go on the Macomb Orchard Trail like to stop by this orchard and cider mill. Here, reasonably priced desserts like pies and donuts can be found.
Verellen’s U-pick farm includes strawberries and cherries, making it the ideal pit-stop on our outdoor lovers.
Whittaker’s Berry Farm
6724 Todd Rd, Ida, MI 48140; (734) 269-6612
UPick: Strawberries
Nobody knows strawberries quite like Whittakers: you’ll find three different types of berries here, all perfect for eatinf fresh, freezing or canning. If prices are an important factor to you, Whittaker’s Berry Farm makes for an inexpensive, entertaining, family outing day. Within over 15 acres of berries are the infamous strawberries set in organized rows that will guarantee you an efficient trip.
This easy-to-pick local strawberry farm is your best chance to collect produce while it is at its peak of flavor.
Upon checkout, cash and credit Card are accepted.
Michigan U-Pick Farms in South Central Michigan
Harvey’s U-Pick Farm
2651 15 Mile Rd, Tekonsha, MI 49092; (517) 767-3408
U- Pick: Blueberries, Raspberries, Strawberries and Chestnuts
Located in Calhoun County is one of the most charming fruit picking experiences in the area. You will be given baskets or bags for their fruits that will then be weighed upon checkout.
The option of U-pick or pre-picked produce at this West Michigan farm will be given for asparagus, strawberries, chestnuts, and more. Harvey’s U-pick farm promises plenty of room for many groups to visit at the same time.
As you plan your next trip to Harvey’s U-pick Farm you will be delighted to know that they do accept cash, checks, and credit cards.
Wasem Fruit Farm
6580 Judd Rd, Milan, MI 48160; (734) 482-2342
U-Pick: Apples, Cherries, Pumpkins
Wasem Fruit Farm is a family-owned orchard that offers an array fruits during the months of July – October.
This farm has been beloved by generations of families. Grandparents are able to watch their grandchildren harvest apples and pumpkins on the same fields that they used to pick from.
This is the type of place where individuals of any age are certain to enjoy. Wasem Fruit Farm provides ladders for visitors to use for when that specific apple caught their eye is just out of reach. This fruit farm specializes in apples, pumpkins, cider, and donuts.
Payment methods include cash, checks, and all major credit cards.
U-Pick Farms in Northern Michigan
AJs Berry Farm
1150 Salina Rd, Lachine, MI 49753
U-Pick: Strawberries
This sprawling berry farm in northern Michigan is a super-family friendly spot. Sure, they have acres of strawberry fields for you to pick to your hearts delight but there more here, too. In the summer, you can buy Michigan fruits, MacArthur Maple Syrup, Pour Boys Honey, and farm-made jams at AJ’s farm store. You can also pick your own berries, or enjoy fresh berry pies, scones, shortcake biscuits, bread, cookies and donuts.
Third Coast Fruit
555 Wilson Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686
U-Pick: Cherries
Delicious fruit, stunning bay views, and tranquil, breezy orchards are the cherry on top of any Up North weekend. This family-owned farm on the Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City is the perfect place to pick your own cherries. The farm has been producing cherries for generations and specializes in some amazingly delicious cherries.
Jacobs Farms
7100 East Traverse Hwy, M-72 West, Traverse City, MI 49684
U-Pick: Apples, Peaches, Strawberries
Half-working farm, half amusement park, this amazing farm and family-friendly spot in Traverse City is not to be missed. Experience Jacob’s Farm, a 40 acre farm boasting best of all worlds! Enjoy our U-Pick Orchards, Kid’s Play Zone, Full Bar and Kitchen and gorgeous views everywhere. In addition to all of the fun, you’ll find U-Pick Apples, Peaches and strawberries in season.
Knabes Apple Farm and CiderWorks
2621 S Karsten Rd, Rogers City, MI 49779
U-Pick: Apples
Knaebe’s is a cozy Apple Orchard located in Northeast Michigan where you’ll find delicious donuts, cookies, pies, fresh pressed cider, jams, maple syrup, honey, pickled veggies, and great gifts! This fun spot, located between Cheboygan and Alpena offers hard cider and wood fired pizza.
UPick Farms in West Michigan
The Gary Crane U-Pick Farm/ Crane Orchards
6017 124th Ave, Fennville, Michigan 49408
U-Pick: Peaches, Plums, Nectarines, Blueberries, Apples, Raspberries
There are enough fruits for picking at the Gary Crane Orchard to keep you full all summer and fall. The Gary Crane U-Pick Farm, not far from Lake Michigan, is U-pick heaven starting with blueberries summer apples and raspberries. Then, the orchards are full of U-pick peaches, plums and nectarines before moving into a wide variety of apples. This is one of my favorite fruit picking farms in Michigan. It’s 125 acres of beautiful, rolling hills of fresh fruit that you don’t want to miss.
Rasch Cherries and Apples
17647 40th Ave, Conklin, MI 49403
UPick: Apples, Cherries
This family farm offers apples, pumpkins, sunflowers that can be picked by visitors, as well as a variety of prepicked fruits and veggies. They also have delicious homemade baked goods, a kids area, and a few animals. And to top it all off, they have a sunflower maze and a corn maze.
Riverbend Farms
44 72nd St, South Haven, MI 49090
Upick: Raspberries, blackberries and Chestnuts
Riverbend Farms has raspberries, blackberries, pears and chestnuts. This fun family farm is conveniently located off I-96 in South Haven MI. You can pick your own fruit or buy freshly picked fruit. This is an exceptionally well-manicured spot: you’ll find clean restrooms and refreshments , too. Look for the big red barns.
The Shafer Farm LLC
9800 Hartline Rd., Baroda MI 49101
UPick: Peaches
A family-owned farm for three generations, The Shafer Farm LLC is a great place to feel at home. Open August through October, there is plenty of time to plan your trip to Baroda and enjoy this quaint farm with high quality fruit. Picking peaches at the Shafer Farm means choosing from a wide variety, including the Red Haven, a popular Michigan peach.
Upper Pensula U-Pick Farms
Rondeaus Ruff Acres
11812 W Spielmacher Rd, Cooks, MI 49817
U-Pick: Strawberries, Raspberries, and Blueberries
You’ll find U-Pick strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries at this spot in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula just west of Manistique. An added bonus of this fun spot is its northern location, which means that the berries ripen a little later than most farms in the lower peninsula. This mean an extended picking time, sometimes lasting unil the fall!
More Michigan UPick Farms
ABOUT THE AUTHOR-
Arrianna Bichara is a content writing intern for mymichiganbeach.com. Originally from California, she later moved to Michigan where she now attends Madonna University. She is currently majoring in Journalism and Public Relations with a minor in Criminal Justice. Travelling and storytelling has always been a hobby for Arrianna, and she is excited to bring the two together. In her free time, Arrianna likes to binge watch television shows, take photographs, and plan her next trips.