Top Strawberry-Picking Farms
Summer’s just around the corner, and that means one thing near NYC: juicy, sun-ripened strawberries ready for picking—and plenty of tasty festivals to match! Here’s a casually-curated guide to the best strawberry farms and celebrations within a couple of hours’ drive from the city. Dive in and plan a sweet escape!
1. Fishkill Farms – Hopewell Junction, Hudson Valley
About 1 hr 15 min from midtown. This century-old, 270-acre family farm kicks off strawberry season in June. You’ll find pick‑your‑own fields, a cider bar, farmstand, and scenic walking areas.
2. Lawrence Farms Orchards – Newburgh, Hudson Valley
Approximately 1 h 20 m away. Season begins mid-June. Look for their updates on social media before heading out. They also offer goats, a hay-bale maze, and seasonal produce.
3. Lewin Farms – Wading River, Long Island
Roughly 1 hr 30 min drive. As Long Island’s first pick‑your‑own farm, strawberries launch the season in late May; arrive early ‘cause fields fill up fast. Cash-only, so bring bills!
4. Greig Farm – Red Hook, Hudson Valley
Around 2½ hours from the city. Open daily from late May; no entrance fee, only pay for what you pick. Bonus: grab a bite at Papa’s Best Batch smokehouse, visit the farm store, or stroll the trails.
5. Samascott Orchards – Long Island
Also near 2½ hr. Open Wed–Mon from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. in June. They start with strawberries (and peas!), with a small picking minimum per person. Containers available or bring your own.
6. Ochs Orchard – Warwick, NY
Mid-June through summer they offer pick-your-own strawberries and homemade ice cream. A gorgeous setting for a family outing.
Strawberry Festivals Worth the Trip
- Beacon Strawberry Festival – Beacon, NY
Sunday, June 8, 2025 (12–5 pm) at Riverfront Park. Live music, shortcake, smoothies, crafts—and free sails on the Hudson! - Kelder’s Strawberry Festival – Kerhonkson, Hudson Valley
May 31 – mid‑June 2025. Six acres of U-pick berries, farm attractions, animals, taproom, food stalls. Tickets around USD $20‑$22.95. - Mattituck Lions Club Strawberry Festival – Mattituck, LI
June 11–15, 2025. Free entry (some days), rides, crafts; ride bracelets ticketed separately. - Owego Strawberry Festival – Owego, NY
June 21, 2025 (9 am–5 pm), featuring a parade, vendor booths, live music, and classic small-town charm. - Historic Owego Marketplace also hosts a festival on the same date with additional local flair.
Pro Tips for Planning
- Peak season: late May through mid-June is prime time. Always call or check ahead—fields close fast!
Bring cash and containers unless otherwise noted (many farms are cash-only, but some provide baskets). - Combine it with a day-trip: add a farmers’ market visit, scenic hike, or local winery for a full experience.
- Festivals vary—check admission, hours and rides before you go.
When strawberry season rolls around, hop in the car (or grab a train + taxi) and head for the fields. With comfy clothes, sun protection, and an appetite for berries, you’re set for a tasty, memory-filled summer day.
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