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We also have our own free and
simple, step-by-step,
illustrated
instructions on canning, freezing and drying many fruits and
vegetables, such as how to make jam,
apple
butter, applesauce,
spaghetti
sauce, salsa,
pickles,
ketchup or
freezing
corn . If
you are looking
for Canners,
mixes, jars, pectin and other canning supplies at the best prices anywhere!
I'm always
looking for suggestions of more farms and
events to add and feedback about any you have visited, so if you encounter any,
just click on the preceding link, as appropriate! And if you have a farm and want to
add it or correct the
information, please click on the link to "add my farm".
Remember to ALWAYS either email, call or click the link to
the farm's own website (if they have one) on the morning before you go,
to confirm hours, conditions and availability of the specific crops you want!
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!
Boone County
-
Edwards Apple Orchard - apples, pumpkins,
tractor rides, hay maze, petting zoo, gift shop, pony rides
7601 Centerville Road, Poplar Grove, IL 61065. Phone: 815-765-2234.
A
visitor writes on July 21, 2008: "They have you-pick
apples, pumpkins, tractor rides, bakery, historic barn museum(?), hay maze,
hay loft, kids play area, petting zoo, gift shop, concessions,
entertainment, pony rides, etc. I cannot say enough about this farm. They
had a devastating tornado strike in January of this year, but it looks as
though the rebuilding will be completed in time for a late-August
re-opening." (UPDATED: July 20, 2008)
A visitor writes on October 12, 2008: "My extended
family and I were at Edwards on Oct. 5, 2008 and they were in full swing,
having recovered from last January's terrible and devastating tornado. The
trees were full for pick your own apples and there was an abundance of
pumpkins. They did a wonderful job of staying true to the original historic
barn while making appropriate space adjustments to better accommodate the
crowds. The Edwards family is always visible - greeting customers and
working behind the counters alongside other employees. Insurance only
covered 1/8 of the cost of reconstruction, so hopefully people will continue
to support the farm - especially with this great fall weather. The best
orchard we've been to - and we've been going yearly since it opened decades
ago!"
- Fiorello's Pumpkin Patch
- Pick your own pumpkins.
3178 Hwy 173, Caledonia, IL. Pumpkins, pony and wagon rides, haunted house,
witches, scarecrows, Halloween costumes, cornstalk maze and autographed
copies of Frank Fiorello's latest pumpkin book. Open: September - end of
October, 9AM - 7PM daily. Phone: 815-765-2587.
-
Susie's Garden Patch - Follows
organic practices, eggplant, herbs/spices, peas, peppers,
pumpkins, raspberries (red), winter squash, strawberries, tomatoes, other
vegetables, restrooms, picnic area, farm animals
10258 US highway 20,
Garden Prairie, IL 61038. Phone: 815-597-3011. Fax: 815-597-3414. Email:
susie@susiesgardenpatch.com. Open: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6:30
pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm. Directions: 6 miles east of Belvidere and
7 miles west of Marengo on Highway 20.
Click here for a map and directions. We follow organic practices, but
are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard.
Typical harvest dates: June: Strawberries; End of June & September:
Raspberries; Mid August to Frost: Tomatoes, peppers, egg plant, okra, hot
peppers; Mid September - October 31: Pumpkins, Fall Squash.
See this page for our
picking updates. Special Events. Pre-picked crops are also available:
Cherries, melons, peaches, tomatoes, watermelon, asparagus, beans, beets,
cucumbers, gherkins, eggplants, garlic, onions, peppers, sweet
corn. (UPDATED: June 09, 2009)
Bureau County
- Apple Valley Farm
- raspberries. UPDATE: September 4, 2005: They are now
permanently closed.
149 S. Towline Road, Seatonville, IL 61359
- Bureau Creek Orchard - Apples, red
raspberries, pumpkins
14180 1800 East St, Princeton, Illinois 61356. Phone: (815)875-6137. Open: 9
am to 6:30 pm daily from August 25 to November. Restrooms on site. Just
opened this year in August.
-
Plow Creek Farm - U-Pick
strawberries,
blueberries,
blackberries,
and raspberries
19183 Plow Creek Road, Tiskilwa, IL 61368 Phone: 815-646-4862. Email:
farm@plowcreek.org. Directions:
See our
map. Open:
June-October. The Strawberry Festival is on the second Saturday of June from 11am
to 2pm in Tiskilwa West Park. Current hours and field reports on phone and website. We grow all crops without chemical herbicides, pesticides or fungicides. Fertilizers are chosen responsibly to enhance long-term soil health. The fertilizer we apply directly to plants is an all-natural fish-based mixture. Diverse vegetables including beans, peas, melons, peppers, lettuce and other greens at market and farm stand. Grass-fed beef by order.
We also grow seedless
watermelon and a wide variety of vegetables, including
tomatoes and
sweet corn . We
are located in Tiskilwa, Illinois -- 8 miles south of Princeton. A visitor
writes: "We went blueberry picking at Plow Creek Farm last
year and we had a wonderful time. The blueberries were the best I've ever
had! I have been looking forward to going back ever since, it's almost
time!" (UPDATED: June 25, 2008)
Cook County
-
The Children's Farm - pumpkins
12700 Southwest Highway,
Palos Park, IL 60464. Phone: 708-361-3650. Fax: 708-361-2811. Email us
at:
centerpalospark@aol.com .
Directions: 294 (tristate) South towards Indiana, Exit I-55 towards
Chicago. Take I55 to the second exit Route 45 (Lagrange Road) south.
Lagrange Road south to 131st Street (8 miles) turn left onto Southwest
Highway (7). The farm will be on your right turn in just before the
large wooden pedestrian bridge. I-80 to Harlem or Lagrange exit north.
At Harlem and 131st Street you will go right to Southwest Highway (7)
and then right on 7 to the farm on your right.
Click here for a map to our farm. We are open October. Our hours
are: Monday through Friday from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays and
Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 p.m. For the entire month of October our
farm is open to pick your own pumpkin. You can visit our farm animals,
take a hayrack to our pumpkin fields and have lunch in under our
pavilion. A great day on the farm for you and your family. At the end of
October we transform our farm into a spooky Haunted experience. Visit
our website for more details
DeKalb County
- Honey Hill Orchard -
apples, raspberries, pumpkins.
11747 Waterman Road, Waterman, IL 60556. Phone: 815-264-3337.
-
Jonamac Orchard, Inc. -
Pumpkins, apples, hayrides, pick-your-own pumpkin patch, kiddie barn
19412 Shabbona Road, Malta, IL 60150. Phone: 815-825-2158. Directions: three quarters of a mile south of Malta on Shabbona
Road (19412 Shabbona Rd.) Open: 7 days a week.
Mid-August till Thanksgiving 9am - 5:30 daily. Also, prepicked sweet corn,
pumpkins, squash, apples, cider, preserves, honey, popcorn, Indian corn,
weekend hayride to the pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Get lost in our 10 acre
Corn Maze with 3 miles of pathways and 2 bridges. The kids will love our
Barnyard activity area with a huge bale pile, peddle tractors, sand pile,
corn bin, play barn, bunny barn, mazes, tube slides and other fun
activities. On weekends the Apple Train will be running and you can try your
marksmanship skills at our Apple Launcher. We will also have festivals, live
music, horse drawn wagon rides and more. Haunted Corn Maze this year by
expanding the number of weekends to four. It will be open October 6, 7, 13,
14, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, and 29, starting at Dark and ending at 10 PM.
- Koehler's Farm Market
- UPDATE July 15, 2007: A visitor tells me they have closed down!
U-pick farm, tomatoes, fall vegetables, pumpkins.
32269 Glidden Road, Kingston, IL. Halloween costumes, weekends
activities in October. Open: various hours. Please call. Phone: 815-784-5841.
- Sycamore Pumpkin Patch
- Pick your own pumpkins.
15326 Quiqley Road, Sycamore, IL. Hayride, Haunted Forest, Maze of Corn, Giant
Pumpkin Patch, Charlotte's Web, barnyard animals, store and refreshments.
Admission charged. Open: Late September - October 31, daily 10AM - 6PM.
Phone: 815-895-3276.
DuPage County
Grundy County
- Olive Berry Acres -
Minimizes chemical and pesticide use,
asparagus, raspberries (red), raspberries (Spring, red), raspberries
(Autumn, red), raspberries (yellow), raspberries (Autumn, yellow),
raspberries (black), rhubarb, strawberries,
2575 West Mine Road Mazon,
IL 60444. Phone: 815-474-6511. Email:
oliveberryacres@aol.com. Open: Please call for an appointment; the Upick
Strawberry Season opened on June 5th in 2009.
Directions: 2 Miles west of Mazon on Grand Ridge Road 1 Mile south on Hadden
Road 1/2 Mile west on Mine Rd.
Click here for a map and directions. We minimize use of pesticides and
other chemicals. Payment: Cash, Check. (ADDED: May 21, 2009)
(UPDATED: June 18, 2009)
Henry County
-
Country Corner - corn (sweet), melons, other berries, pumpkins,
raspberries, summer squash, winter squash, strawberries, tomatoes, other
vegetables, Other fruit or veg, prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and
refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, pony rides, petting zoo, farm
animals, birthday parties, school tours, events at your location (call for
info)
5333 U. S. highway 150, Alpha, IL 61413. Phone: 3096292359. Fax: 3096292359.
Email:
rtf205@sbcglobal.net. Directions: Halfway between the Illinois Quad
Cities and Galesburg, IL. on U.S. highway 150, two miles North of Alpha, IL.
Just twenty minuetes from the Quad City Airport. And for a map to our farm,
click here. Crops are usually available in May, June, July, August,
September, October. Open: Farm Market Monday to Saturday, 9:00am to 7:00pm
Sunday 10:00am to 6:00pm May 1st; through October 31st Fall Fun Park open on
weekend's starting September 13th through October 31st; 11:00am to 7:00pm.
Strawberries available mid May to mid June U-Pick Vegetables by apointment
July to October U-Pick Rasberries mid July to Mid Sept U-Pick Pumpkins Sept
1st to October 31st Corn Maze Open daily late July to October 31st
Flashlight Maze by apointment Sept 1st to October 31st Haunted Maze Friday
and Saturday 7pm to 11pm in Oct. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard,
Discover. U-Pick Hayrack Rides to the Vegetable Garden, Sweet Corn, Indian
Corn, Gourd Patch and Pumpkin Patch New this Fall,Featuring our own Corn
Cannon, Cow Train, Mini Corn Shock Maze and Mining For Gems along with
Special events every weekend starting September 13th. (ADDED: June 22, 2008)
- Oswald Family Farm -
blueberries, raspberries & asparagus. UPDATE July 9, 2006: Our
operation is not u-pick. We have fresh asparagus and rhubarb in season.
Pickled asparagus and asparagus guacamole year-round. Our berries go into
jams and jellies. Shortly we will have cherry-rhubarb and strawberry-rhubarb
sauce available throughout the year.
8227 Timber Road, Kewanee, IL 61443 Phone: 309-853-5449.
- Strawberry Flats - blueberries,
raspberries & strawberries.
23787 E. 1260 Street, Geneseo, IL 61254 (Henry County) Phone:
309-944-5065. Call for directions.
Iroquois County
-
Mulberry Lane Farm -
Follows organic practices, asparagus, beans, beets, corn (sweet),
cucumbers, currants (red and black), onions, peppers, raspberries (red),
rhubarb, summer squash, strawberries, tomatoes, Fresh eggs, already-picked
produce, farm market
414 Mulberry Lane, Loda, IL 60948. Phone:
217-386-2690. Email:
helen@mulberrylanefarm.com. Open: Monday - Friday 8 am to 8 pm; Closed
Sundays for family and worship. Picking updates:
Click here for picking updates. Directions: Just off of #45 in Loda, IL.
Follow the signs off of #45 in Loda.
Click here for a map and directions. Open in April with asparagus,
rhubarb and early lettuce, green onions, and radishes; June is strawberry
month and July is raspberry month; Also sell corn, green beans, tomatoes,
zucchini, cucumbers, green peppers, fresh baked French bread, banana bread,
rhubarb bread and wonderful brown eggs!. We follow organic practices, but
are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check. Please call first before
heading out to the farm. Items like strawberries, raspberries and asparagus
go fast and are usually sold by reservation. (UPDATED: May 07, 2009)
Jo Daviess County
- White's Berry Farm - Strawberries &
raspberries (red, yellow and black), peaches, tomatoes,
peppers, melons, sweet corn, pumpkins, gourds, squash and much more.
1729 N. Blackjack Road,
Galena, IL 61036 Phone: 815-777-3106.
Call for directions and for more information.
Kankakee County
- Mary's Berries
- strawberries, blackberries, raspberries.
9495 East 1500N. Road, Momence, IL 60954. Phone: (815)
472-6015. Important note: They
do not allow kids to pick blackberries or raspberries (because of the
thorns), but they may pick strawberries..
- Vana's Pumpkin Land - pumpkins, summer squash,
winter squash, Other fruit or veg, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the
premises), gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, petting zoo, farm
animals, birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours,
events at your location (call for info)
7705 W Rt17, Kankakee, IL 60901. Phone: 815-939-2000. Directions: 7 mi. West
of Kankakee on Route 17. And for a map to our farm,
click here. Crops are usually available in September, October. Open:
Monday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard,
Discover, AmEx. Gourds, jack-be-little, white pumpkins, bird houses, banana
squash, and so forth. (ADDED: October 18, 2008)
Kane County
- Anderson Farm - tomatoes, pumpkin patch-
already gathered from the field, straw or hay bale maze, and prepicked produce,
tractor-pulled hay rides
251 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, IL 60538. Phone: 630-896-8835. Fax:
630-554-0098. Email us at:
maherappraisal@ameritech.net. Directions: Interstate 88 to Orchard Road south to U.S. 30(Ny-Pass). East across Fox River to Douglas
Road North to
Montgomery Road West 1/4 mile to farm on north side of road. And for a map to
our farm,
click here. Crops are usually available in August, September. Open:
daily 9AM to 6PM July 1 thru October 31. U-Pick Tomatoes beginning early
August thru September. Hay Rides, Straw Maze and Petting farm the last three
weekends in October. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx.
Sweet Corn, Cucumbers, Pickling Cux, Zuchinni, Yellow Squash, Peppers,
Potatoes, Beans all picked daily. Michigan Peaches July to September.
Michigan Apples and Cider September thru October.
- Greenfield Farms - raspberries,
0S951 Green Road, Elburn, IL 60119. Email:
Berries@andersale.com. Directions: From Elburn...go south on 47 to
Hughes , go east to Green Rd (1.5 miles) take Green south, we are 3/4 mile
on left. From Batavia...Randall go west on Fabian to Hughes west to Green,
go south on Green. From Batavia...Randall west on Main to Green (6 miles) go
north to Farm (3/4 mile) And for a map to our farm,
click here. Our raspberries are usually ready for picking in mid-August.
Open: 7 Days a week from 8 am to dusk. Payment: Cash, Check. Bring your own picking basket
or bucket and save! We have picking baskets and containers if you don't.
(UPDATED: June 29, 2009)
A visitor writes on August 30, 2008: "They have a nice
spacious field with rows that are marked for ripe berries. Owners are
friendly and helpful. You need to bring something to take your berries home
in. Excellent prices."
-
Kuipers Family Farm - apples, pumpkins, Honey from hives on the
farm, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), already-picked
produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area,
pony rides, petting zoo, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours
1n318 Watson Road, Maple Park, IL 60151. Phone: 815-827-5200. Open: Apple
Orchard Saturday and Sunday Only 10 am to 5 pm September and October;
Pumpkin Farm Tuesday thru Friday 9 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 5
pm.
Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Picking updates:
Click here for picking updates. Directions: I88 West to Sugar Grove and
Route 47 exit. Route 47 North 10 miles to Keslinger Road. 5 miles West on
Keslinger to Watson Road. North on Watson to Entrance. I90 West to Randall
Road exit. Randall Road South to Route 38. West on Route 38 five miles past
Route 47 to Watson Road. South on Watson Road to farm.
Click here for a map and directions. Apple Orchard, Gift Shop and Bakery
Open Labor Day Weekend thru Sunday before Christmas; Christmas Trees from
Thanksgiving thru Sunday before Christmas; Pumpkin Farm Festivities, Corn
Maze and Barn Store Open Mid September thru Halloween. Payment: Cash, Check,
Visa/MasterCard. Jumping Pillows! New as of 2009. (UPDATED: April 30, 2009)
|
Approximate
Ripening Dates:
Please call for daily updates to the apple picking
schedule. |
| Variety |
Ripens: |
Variety |
Ripens |
| Paulared |
mid-August |
Red Delicious |
October 4 |
| Prima |
August 30 |
Golden Delicious |
October 4 |
| Jonamac, Gala |
September 6
|
Mutsu, Idared |
October 18 |
| Cortland, McIntosh |
September 13 |
Rome, Winesap |
October 18 |
| Spartan, Ozark Gold |
September 13 |
Blushing Golden |
October 25 |
| Empire, Jonathan |
September 20 |
Granny Smith |
Nov or later |
Turn your fall pumpkin picking
into a family event. Kuipers offers u-pick pumpkins right from the patch! We
also have pre-picked pumpkins in many sizes. When the fall season is over
don't forget to come back to Kuipers for your Christmas Season. We offer
fresh u-cut and pre-cut Christmas trees and wreaths. We'll even have hot
cider, home baked pies and our famous apple cider doughnuts to warm you up!
For holiday decorating visit our Gift Shop for beautiful Christmas
decorations and crafts.
A visitor writes on September 08, 2008: "Very, very
expensive for such a small amount of apples for apple picking. Long lines,
help is either over worked or just put out by the masssive amount of people
paying big bucks to the farm. Not very organized for the amount of visitors
they get in a season. A smile would not hurt the help and again I stress -
you will spend BIG BUCKS!"
A visitor writes on October 05, 2008: "My In-Laws have
been going there for a couple years and that is all they can talk about for
weeks. This years I brought my Family there and we had a blast ! ! ! ! I
can't wait until next year ! ! ! ! My 3 year old Daughter loved it and my 22
year old Brother loved it too ! ! ! ! My Mother can't wait until next year
also ! ! ! ! "
A visitor writes on October 06, 2008: "We went
to the farm this weekend, and although it started to rain while we were
there, we still had a great time (my husband, me and our 5-year-old). This
is a very big farm with something for everyone, literally, and plenty of
low-hanging apples for kids to pick. We chose this farm over others on your
excellent website because of the variety of apples they offer--we wanted
some for eating, some for pies, and some to make applesauce, and we need
different types for that (pie apples need to be firm). There are dozens of
varieties of apples, inclduing some we weren't familiar with (Gold Rush, Ida
Red), though not all areas are open for picking each day--depends on
ripeness, etc. The admission charge is kind of expensive, but at the same
time the apple prices were comparable to what I pay in my local grocery
store (it was $14.00 for 10 pounds, so $1.40 a pound--less than at my local
Jewel and certainly less than Whole Foods, though these apples are not
organic as far as I know). They also have a cool 5-acre corn maze, and a
whole farm of attractions across the street, includng pumpkin patch and pony
rides and petting zoo, which we skipped this time due to the rain getting
heavier. They also have a bakery and an outdoor food tent which had
something for each of us (braturst, cheeseburgers, hot dog and very, very
good apple cider donuts, which I don't usually like, but these were lighter
and more flavorful than most). We also bought their cider which we thought
was very good quality. Every sngle person was friendly despite the bad
weather and crowds, and they have a lot of helpers everywhere you go. Our
final verdict is that we will definitely go back! If you do not like a big
farm with lots going on, I would choose a smaller place that just has
apples, and perhaps it will be cheaper. You will end up spending more money
here because there is a lot to do and to buy, but we kind of knew going into
it that we'd spend some money on this once-a-year outing, so we didn't mind.
Out of 5 stars, we'd give it 5!"
A visitor writes on December 08, 2008:
"I
LOVE THIS PLACE! We have been coming for three years now, and absolute fell
in love with their Amaizing Corn Maize, and also with their kiddie section,
that is actually not just for kids. The second corn maize that you can ring
their bell once you find it is fun for all ages as is their new shed with
hay bale. My kids had a blast this fall, and we easily spent the day there.
Too much to do, and they slept like babies afterwards! The apples were
delicious, and again, this was a fun outing for my kids. This is a clean,
friendly, clever place. The Amaizing Corn Maize is just so fun, with Victory
Lane, tall flag banners, and very clever puns throughout. Kuiper's is the
best; just wish they were closer to my home, but it was still worth the
drive, and we will come back every year. Keep up the great work! It gets
better and bigger every year, and that's wonderful."
-
Shady Hill Gardens - flowers, tomatoes, restrooms
42W075 Route 38, Elburn, IL 60119. Phone: 630-365-5665. Fax: 630-365-5664.
Email us at:
joe@shadyhill.com. Directions: On the south side of Route 38, five miles
west of Randall Road and two miles east of Route 47 And for a map to our
farm,
click here. Crops are usually available in September, October. Our
season typically runs from Labor Day until about October 15. Open: Monday
through Saturday 9 am to 5 pm, Sunday 11 am to 4 pm Cut Flowers: August 29
through hard frost (approximately October 12). Payment: Cash, Check,
Visa/MasterCard. Shady Hill Gardens has long been known for their famous
geraniums and other Spring plants, but in the Fall, you will find many other
items. In addition to mums, cabbage, pansies and perennials, we have beds of
Pick Your Own cut flowers, and pick your own tomatoes - both during their
season only.
- Theis Produce - UPDATE June 02, 2009: Their phone is
disconnected! Does anyone near the farm have more information? If
so,
please write me!
strawberries ,
pumpkins, cut-your-own Christmas trees
6 N 593 County Line Road, Maple Park, IL 60151 (Kane County)
Phone: 815-895-9712. When in season, (October 1 - December 26th) open
daily 9 am to 6 pm. Bring own containers, also pre-picked available.
Kendall County
-
Dollinger Family Farm
- Pick your own pumpkins.
7420 E Hansel Road, Minooka, IL. U-pick pumpkins, squash, gourds, mums, and
Indian corn, hay rides, educational activities, farm animals, haunted
cemetery, some 200 - 300 lb pumpkins here, picnic facilities. Open: September
30 - October 30, daily 10 am to 6 PM. Phone: 815-467-6766.
-
Knutson's Country Harvest - apples, beans, beets, blackberries,
blueberries, cherries, pears, peaches, peppers, plums, pumpkins, raspberries
(red), raspberries (Spring, red), raspberries (Autumn, red), raspberries
(black), rhubarb, strawberries, tomatoes, other vegetables, Honey from hives
on the farm, already-picked produce, farm market, gift shop, snacks and
refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, pony rides,
birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours, events at your
location (call for info)
13550 Townhouse Road, Newark, IL 60541. Phone:
815-695-5905. Alternate Phone: 815 557 4629. Email:
info@knutsonsharvest.com. Open: Crops are usually available in June,
July, August, September, October; Open: June Saturday 9am to 4pm, Starting
July Saturday and Wednesday 9am to 2pm, and Saturday, Wednesday, and Sunday
1pm to 4pm.
Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Picking updates:
Click here for picking updates. Directions: Newark is 30 miles straight
west of Joliet Il on Route 71. We are 1 mile south of Newark on Townhouse
Road Call or visit our website for directions and maps.
Click here for a map and directions. Everbearing Hydroponic Strawberries
Mid June Till End Of October Everbearing Red Raspberries End of June Till
End Of October Black Raspberries All of July; Blueberries First of July Till
Mid August; Apples Mid July Till End of October Peaches Mid July Till Mid
September; Blackberries August;. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards,
Visa/MasterCard. We grow our Strawberries Hydroponically. They are in stacks
about 4 ft high (very easy to pick, Elderly and Handicap friendly), much
cleaner and more natural. See our website for pictures and details. In our
store we have Fresh Pies (Regular and Sugarless), Jams, Jellies (Regular,
Seedless and Sugarless), pickles available. Paddle boat rides in the summer
and Wagon Rides in the Fall. (UPDATED: April 29, 2009)
A visitor writes on July 02, 2009:
"7/2/09: We went to this farm today hoping to pick strawberries from their
hydroponic gardens. An interest in hydroponics actually led us there. The
website led us to believe this was a big farm. Not so. The best crop was
weeds. Found maybe 12 strawberries in the whole crop. Blueberry bushes
barely rose above weeds that could have been mowed down. Drove over an hour
for a great disappointment."
A visitor writes on June 18, 2009:
" I visited this farm yesterday for the first time with my parents who are
in their late 50's, my grandmother who is in her late 70's and my three
children ages 10,6 and 4. I have a brain and spine condition that makes it
extremely painful to bend, two of my children have special needs, my father
and grandmother have trouble walking and my mom has a very bad back. We all
had a wonderful time! The farm is easily accessible to handicapped
individuals. It isn't a huge area to walk (or roll!) so it's comfortable for
those of us who have physical problems. This is a family run business and
the family is delightful. When we arrived, the "lady of the farm" was baking
in their huge commercial kitchen. She came out and greeted us and explained
the prices, how many pounds their buckets hold, etc. She then took us out to
the stacks of strawberries. She explained their hydroponic system and took
special care to include my children in the conversation. She left us to pick
and we had the place to ourselves. It felt like a private family tour! There
are 15,000 plants with berries at different stages of ripeness. There were
SO MANY ripe berries that we only got through about a half of one row before
we had all filled our buckets. The activity kept my Autistic children
occupied and happy finding only the "reddest berries". When we were done,
the family went out of their way to help us in their country store and
explain every item we asked about. They have plants for sale, homemade pies,
jellies, jams, fruit from their farm, all the way up to the stacker system!
We asked about purchasing a stacker and the "man of the farm" came out to
explain those to us. The stackers are reasonably priced and would be great
to have at home. I would encourage anyone to visit this farm! As a child my
mom and grandma took me berry picking and it was so nice to be able to take
them with my kids. All four living generations out picking strawberries!
That would not have been possible at a traditional farm with all of our
physical handicaps. It meant so much to me that there was a place for us and
this will continue to be a family tradition. I absolutely loved this farm
and the fact that they are open for picking long past the regular strawberry
season means I will be back this season and many more to come! " (Suggested
by a visitor, ADDED: June 18, 2009)
A visitor writes on August 30, 2008: "This place had a
very limited amount of strawberry plants to pick from. In fact, we found 4
ripe berries from all of the plants--all the plants had been picked clean.
Another visitor told us that it's almost impossible to find enough to fill a
basket because the plants are striped so often. The two rows of raspberry
bushes looked un-kept and weedy. Owners are nice and cordial, but there
didn't seem to bee much of quality picking. They do sell "hydro-stacker"
systems if you want to grow your own."
A visitor writes on December 08, 2008: "This is
a wonderful place. I have come here several years now, and their hydroponic
strawberries were a huge hit with my kids. They have tons of raspberries and
blueberries, too. For an outing with your kids, it's a great, out of the way
place, that is never too crowded. They family that runs this farm is
extremely friendly and helpful, and they have our business for many years to
come, so we highly recommend them. Their pie and their jam were delicious. "
Lake County
-
Didier Farms - pumpkins, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, green
beans, hayrides, pumpkin patch in the field, 5 acre corn maze, Halloween
shop.
16678 West Aptakisic Road, Prairie View, Il 60069. Phone: 847-634-3291.
Fax: 847-634-3298. E-mail:
info@didierfarms.com. Directions: near Lincolnshire, IL. Northeast
corner of Aptakisic Road & Buffalo Grove Road.
Click here for a map.
Open: 9 am to 7 p.m. Daily till Halloween. U-Pick begins early August for
tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and green beans. Our
farmstand is open
everyday from 9-7 until October 31, 2005. Also, Birthday Party Reservations
are being taken Monday thru Friday from 9-2 beginning August 1, 2005. Please
check the birthday party web page for information.
Schools and
Groups Reservations for Didier Farms
Pumpkinfest (September
24-October 31, 2005 will begin by fax on August 15 and by phone on September
1, 2005. More: open spring for plants, summer for vegetables, fall for
pumpkins, etc.
Greenhouse. Also see our
Photo Gallery,
Birthday
Parties, and
Calendar of Events
pages.
-
Glunz Farms - herbs.
888 Belvidere Road, Suite 109, Grayslake, IL 60030 Phone: 847-548-9463.
Location of the Pick Your Own farm for fresh raspberries & herbs and Winery
is 19655 W. Washington, Grayslake, IL 60030, Phone: 847-548-6687. Closed
until August. No longer offering raspberries to pick.
-
Heinz Orchard - apples,
1050 Crest Road (corner of Crest & Atkinson), Green Oaks, IL 60048. Phone:
847.287.5867. Email:
heinz.orchard@yahoo.com. Directions:
Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available in
September, October. Open: See our website for current hours. Payment: Cash,
only. Our family-run orchard is the closest to Chicagoland and has been
welcoming individuals and families for over 40 years. We don't charge for
admission or parking, and there is no minimum-per-person charge. (ADDED:
September 02, 2008)
A visitor writes on September 21, 2008: "We have been
apple picking many times, this was a great experience. It is a wonderful
place to take kids. The orchard is small, but the apples were plentiful and
the staff very kid friendly. We will definetly go back."
A visitor writes on October 09, 2008: "Hello and thanks
for your web-site. i really found it the most useful of all the ones i
looked at for picking apples. We went to Heinz Orchard in Lake County
Illinois. The owner, farmer, was extraordinarily nice and gave us lots of
tips on picking. The apples are delicious! We had a wonderful time in the
quiet place that is not so far to drive to as the other farms. i would go
back next year."
A visitor writes on October 14, 2008: "Great
experience. Just apple picking - which is exactly what we wanted. Plus
Andy(?) the farmer was a wealth of information. It was great to actually get
to speak to a real farmer - something that is harder and harder to do these
days. Each kid got a 1/2 peck bag (and we ate a bunch more!). "
- Krueger's vegetable's - beans, pumpkins, tomatoes, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, train rides, and prepicked produce, restrooms, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides
28572 West Route 120, Lakemoor, IL 60051. Phone: 815-385-4981. Email us at: Kruegersfarm@aol.com. Directions: From us rte 12 we are located a mile and a quarter west of
Route 12 on Route 120 Click here for a map to our farm. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October. Open: Staring in
July and ending October 31 we are open 7 days a week 9am till 6pm. our pumpkins patch hayrides start in
October every weekend from noon till 5pm. Payment: Cash, Check.
-
Quig's
- Apples - UPDATE July 1, 2006:
They've sold the farm for yet
another housing development. A visitor writes on 2007-09-14: "I have been
picking apples at Quigs apple orchard for 30 years, since I was a child. To
my surprise the Quig family decided to sell to new owners July of 2006.
However, the Quig family had the new owners promise to keep the orchard open
and run it like a family owned business it was for 59 years. It was the new
owners who succumbed to greed and sold and closed the orchard for a housing
development in January of 2007. The Quig family took pride in their business
and I had to clear their name. It is a shame how many memories will not be
made because of greed and development. "
Another visitor points out that the Quig's weren't greedy, but rather:
"The town of Mundelein was taxing the land as if it was being occupied by a
housing division. Therefore, Quig's was "taxed" out of existence by the very
town that they provided sales revenue to. I agree that this is very sad. I
can't tell you how many people have commented to me about their sadness
regarding Quig's destruction. We are all left trying to find another orchard
to replace Quig's only to find out that there is and was only one Quig's."
300 S. Route 60/83, Mundelein, Illinois, 60060. one quarter mile N.W. of
Midlothian Road. During picking
season, the apple orchard will be open: Tuesday to Sunday WHILE SUPPLIES
LAST. Call for daily apple availability at 847-566-4520.
CALL BEFORE YOU GO!!!!Apple
Picking, Daytime Hayrides, Pony Rides, Daytime Haunted Barn, Petting Zoo,
'Tony the Tiger' Moonwalk, a Giant Caterpillar to crawl through, and more!
The children's activities are available on the weekends in September and Oct.
- Wauconda Orchards
- Closed
Sadly - it's now a housing development.
- Ziegler's Orchard - Apples (both U-pick and
prepicked),
snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, tractor-pulled hay rides
Bacon Road 1/4 ml. S of l20 & 2ml W of Haninesville 32363 N. Bacon Road,
Grayslake, IL 60030. Phone: 847-546-1228. Fax: 857-546-l435. Email us at:
helsep@sbcglobal.net. Directions:
From Chicago & suburbs go north to Hwy l20(Bellvediere Rd.)West on l20 to
Bacon Road which is 2 ml. past Hainesville just before Fairfield Road. All
others go north or south to Hwy l20 then to Bacon Road which is 1/4 ml. south
of Hwy l20 And for a map to our farm,
click here. Crops are usually available in September, October. Open:
Saturday & Sunday 9am to 5pm. September 10 to Oct. 9, 2005 for Columbus Day and
Oct. l5 & l6 call first Sept, 10&ll Macintosh l7&18 Jonathan&Courtland
25,25,Oct.1,2,8,9,all varieties including Red & Golden Del., Mutzu, Fuji,
Blushing Gold, Granny Smith, Banana Apples, etc. Hayrides every week-end
from l0am-4pm Payment: Cash, Check.
Note from a visitor, October, 2006:
"First I want to say thank you for such a great website. It
was so informative and helpful. I used it to locate some apple orchards for
my girl scout troop and some siblings. We were wanting to give them the
experience of picking the apples, going on a hayride and then come home to
bake apple crisp. HOWEVER THIS DID NOT HAPPEN AT ZIEGLER'S. I really think
it should be noted that Zieglers is not family oriented and really does not
want kids out on their orchards. We were treated extremely rudely by the
owners and as soon as they saw our cars pull up increased the price per
person. I was told on the phone and via email the cost was $1.00 per person
and $6.00 for a 5lb. of apples. But they demanded we pay not only $1.00 per
person but each person had to purchase 5lbs. of apples. This includes our
preschooler of age 3-6. There were 25 of us...what on earth did we need
125lbs of apples for?? We tried to negotiate with them as we did not want to
waste the apples but they would not listen and were very rude. They just
wanted us to leave with all the kids. Instead we went to
Royal Oak Farm in Harvard, Illinois
and had a much better experience. With all the orchards closing it is a
shame we had to be treated in such a manner and it was a good lesson for the
girl scouts of how not to treat others."
Another comment from a visitor on October 13, 2007: "I
agree with the comment "not family friendly" but at first glance they seem
to be. They actually made us buy a bag to pick apples for my 2 year old. We
were not greeted when walking into the little bakery either. You would think
that they want the business. "
Another comment from a visitor on October 20, 2007: "Ziegler's
may have changed their policy since I took my 2 yr old son there last year
(2006). All they indicated was that each bag was $10 whether filled up
completely or not. I actually had 1 1/2 bags and they offered to only charge
me for one. I loved the experience and my son also loved the store and
pumpkins to pick out as well."
A
visitor writes on August 17, 2008:
"Zieglers: I also wanted to comment on Zielgers. My family and I were also
long time customer of Quigs. After the closing, we attempted to continue the
family tradition each year, and tried out Zieglers. WORST idea ever. They
were RUDE (one lady actually argued with my family member in an incredbilly
rude tone... apparently- the customer isn't right). We also experienced
their insanly ridiculous policy of making each customer- not matter how old
- purchase a 5lb bag of apples (sure enough- my 4 year old cousin had to buy
a 5lb bag)!! And, if you did not buy a 5lb bag then you could not walk
through the orchard. So, because several of my family members refused to
purchase a 5lb bag (that many apples is just not needed) they stood outside
the orchard waiting for the rest of use to be done picking apples. [My
immediate family specifically has 5 people in it. We DO NOT need 25 lbs of
apples at home!] Needless to say, it was a HORRIBLE experience for a family
attempting to continue a long lived tradition. We will NEVER go to Zieglers
again- they are not family oriented and rude. It seems they are there to
only make a buck as oppposed to giving the customer a great experience."
A visitor writes on August 18, 2008: "In response to the
comments about Ziegler's Orchard in Grayslake: I also began going there
after Quig's in Mundelein closed, and I always found the staff very friendly
and helpful. I'm really surprised to hear that they were rude to other
patrons, as that was not my experience in the least. I would recommend
Ziegler's to anyone."
A visitor writes on August 19, 2008: "We visited
Ziegler's last fall (Sept. 2007). We must remember that with the price of
land in the area, local taxes, and the cost of keeping a clean and tidy
orchard, Ziegler's does need to make money somehow. People will pay $30 per
child for Great America but have a problem "buying" 5 lbs. of apples per
person. Yes, 5 lbs. per person might leave a family with 15-20 lbs. of
apples but it is just to fund keeping the idea of a U-pick orchard alive. We
just chalked it up to paying an admission fee for the experience. We planned
ahead and made all kinds of apple desserts that night and passed some of the
extra apples along to family and friends. If Ziegler's wanted to avoid the
negative feedback, they could raise the admission or possibly charge an
additional admission fee if 5 lbs. of apples are not picked. It is
heart-breaking to waste all that food, but we must financially support local
farms who are trying their very best to survive. I'm POSITIVE the Ziegler
family isn't getting rich on your 5 lb. bag surcharge."
A visitor writes on September 05, 2008: "We've had our
family apple-picking outing at Ziegler's annually since my daughter was born
12 years ago, and.... we've always ~loved~ it there. We always stop first to
get their delicious apple cider cinnamon donuts, then head out to the trees.
We have so much fun trying to find the variety of our favorite trees. As to
the 5 pound bag... that's always the way it's been there. We've always had
fun giving our extra apples to the neighbors, co-workers, and friends when
we return. One year we met Mrs. Ziegler in the store, and she could not have
been more delightful. Their brand of apple butter is the best, and their
apple barbeque sauce is the bomb. "
A visitor writes on September 06, 2008: "Just
an update - According to their phone message, there is no such thing as a
5lb min., but the cost is $1.35per/lb with a 1.00 admission. Children
3/under are not included in the per pound pricing. They open the 13th."
A visitor writes on September 10, 2008: "We
visited Zeiglers in late Sept 2007 after discovering Quigs had closed up. It
was a terrible experience with rude people. We will be going else where this
year. We miss Quigs. They knew how to celebrate the season and geared
everything towards the children which is what its all about."
A visitor writes on September 24, 2008: "I worked at the Ziegler orchard
some 20 years ago as a high school student. The comments of others are very
accurate. You never know what mood Mrs. Ziegler can be in - pleasent or
scornful. And no, they are not kid friendly. They are a small farm and need
every one of their apple trees at fullest production. The damage done by
curious, well meaning kids climbing and tramping through the orchard is very
upsetting to them. The more people in the orchard, the higher the stress
level and more likely to get a negative experience. On the positive, they
have Fantastic apple struedle and fritters! "
A visitor writes on October 04, 2008: "There are no more apples left for
picking. We went to the orchard today (10/4/08) and they charged us $1 each
to pick apples off of the ground. Very disappointing! "
A visitor writes on October 12, 2008: "I have been going
to Zeigler's since I was a child, it's a tradition that we go every fall.
The past two years we have taken our son there and it was a completely
upsetting experience. The policies have changed so much, not to mention the
prices, and it was very unlike it had always been. We went back this year,
on a whim thinking maybe we just caught it on a bad day last year, and it
was just as bad. There were NO apples left to be picked, and while they
can't be faulted for that they at least had the courtesy to warn us before
we paid the admission charge. Either way, we will not be going back next
year."
If anyone else (including the farm) has a comment, positive or negative,
please write me - I aim to
present a fair, accurate information!
LaSalle County
-
Guelde Strawberries - asparagus, pumpkins, strawberries
4779 E 1525th Road, Earlville, IL 60518. Phone: (815) 246-9609
Click here for a map to our farm. We are open May, June, July,
September, October. Our hours are: 7 Days a week, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm,
weather permitting
Marshall County
- Schneider Orchard -
fresh apples, pumpkins
1036 County Road, 1150 North; Henry, IL 61537. Directions: 2 miles South of
Henry on Rte 29, West 2 miles. Watch for signs.
-
Tanner's Orchard - Pick your own apples, Apples, cider, grapes,
pumpkins, cider, Christmas decorations, gourmet foods, candles, jams and
apple butter, bakery, deli
740 State Route 40, Speer, IL, 61749. Phone: 309-493-5442. Email us at:
info@tannersorchard.com.
Open: 7 days a week, July 15 for season, school tours, restrooms, picnic areas, kids petting zoo
and play area, Payment: Cash and credit cards welcome. Tanners also
has hayrack rides and a corn maze in the Fall!
McHenry County
- All Seasons Orchard & Nursery -
11 different varieties of apples.
14510 Route 176.
Woodstock, IL 60098. Phone: 815-338-5637. Email: ASFNL@prodigy.net.
Directions: From Chicago take I-90. Exit on 47 North to Route 176 West. The
orchard is located 2.5 miles west of the intersection of Route 176 West and
47. Open: September - October 9 am to 5 p.m. Farmer's Market: honey,
jams, pre-picked apples and Asian pears, apple doughnuts. Other: Pumpkins in
October, green and shade trees available from spring-fall.
A visitor writes on September 22, 2008: "I visited
with my boyfriend on Sunday, 9-21. We got there at about 11 am, it was
swamped. No biggie, you expect that. You had a choice of 2 bag sizes/prices.
Unfortunately, one was for ony Honeycrisp and asian pears ($40) and one for
everything else ($30). No other choices. I bought pre-picked Honeycrisps
(why I went there)and we wandered around. Had fun in the petting zoo, though
it was small and the animals were behind a fence. I prefer one with more
interaction. There were several goats and a llama, and I do have to say the
animals were very friendly. Wandered around a bit, got hot, decided to go in
and purchase something to drink. Which we stood in line for 45 mintues to
pay for. There was a LOT of grumbling about the prices, the lack of choices
in bag size, and the wait in the lines. By the time we paid for it, our
drinks were warm, we told the woman we were putting them back in the cooler
and taking cold ones. Then we left. I for one am not going back there, and a
coworker who has children who went the same day felt the same. I think there
are other places much more fun than this one."
- Brook Farm
- UPDATE July 3, 2007: We regretfully have closed our U-Pick operation
this year and are just selling at a farmers' market in Woodstock, IL.
9306 Lawrence Road, Harvard, IL 60033.
- Country Cabin Orchard
- permanently closed (UPDATED: July 20, 2008)
U-pick apple
orchard (8 varieties),4820 Alden Road, Woodstock, IL. P
- Goebbert's Pumpkin Patch
- Pick your own pumpkins.
42 W 813 Reinking Road, Hampshire, IL.
Phone: 847-464-5952. U-pick pumpkins,
petting zoo, wagon rides, decorations. Open: October 1 - November 1, Daily 9AM -
6PM.
- Harms Farm Garden Cntr
- Pick your own pumpkins.
4727 W Crystal Lake Road, McHenry, IL. Phone: 815-385-5385. Pumpkins,
fresh fruit, apples, petting zoo, spook house, pumpkin x-press ride, crafts,
weekend events, Christmas trees and crafts. Open: seasonal times. 8AM - 8PM.
Call in advance.
- Homestead Orchard - Apples, blackberries, raspberries, rhubarb
11802 Charles Road, Woodstock, IL 60098. Phone: 815-338-7443. Email us at:
donburda@comcast.net. Directions: From I-90 (Illinois Tollway) go north on Route #47 approximately 12 miles to Woodstock. Continue on #47 through business district going north a few more miles to Charles Road stop sign. Turn right and go 1 mile to Orchard! From McHenry going west on #120. Go to the "Greenwood" stop sign, but do not turn left on #120, continue going west on what is now Charles Road. Homestead Orchard is a mile and a half on the right. And for a map to our farm, Click here.
Open: 10 am to 5 pm Monday to Saturday and 12 pm to 5 pm on Sunday during apple
harvest season. We also offer our own honey & beeswax candles.
A visitor writes on September 08, 2008: "Wanted to let
you know about our experience at Homestead Orchard. We were glad to find out
that this place was open early - Sept 6/7. We went with our family of four
and two neighbor girls. When we arrived we went into the little barn and
were greeted by the owners, Barb & Don. They went over everything we needed
to know like which trees were ready to pick, which weren't, gave us the
pricing ($1.25 per/lb for apples and no minimum or surcharge) told us about
the you pick rasberries and pears and then gave us all bags equal to a peck.
The youngest got a smaller, 1/2 peck paper bag. Another guy showed us to the
trees and suggested we walk further down the aisles to get the less picked
over varieties. We spent about 45 minutes getting some wonderful macintosh
and jonathons. Then we got a few pears. After collecting all that (about 30
lbs total) we headed for the berry patch. There are still plenty of berries
left if you want to head out there. It looks like they will still be
ripening for a couple weeks yet. While picking berries I met a lady who also
found the farm from pickyourown.org, so this site definitely works! When we
checked out Don was very nice, warm and friendly. We didnt get charged for
the small paper bag which still probably had about 5 lbs in it, so that was
nice. All in all it was really nice experience. There are no frills at
homestead - its just a you pick operation so dont expect hayrides,
entertainment etc. We didnt need it this day - the kids had a blast without
it. Thanks Blake for your great site!"
A visitor writes on October 10, 2008: "I took
my 5 and 7 year old here today and it was a wonderful experience. The
orchard is just the right size and the owner is very friendly and helpful.
There were plenty of apples in the children's reach. There is no minimum
purchase but we almost filled one bag. We will be going back next year. We
got some delicious Jonagolds and Blushing Goldens and they are being
devoured as I write this! "
A visitor writes on October 13, 2008: "This is
about Homestead Orchard at 11802 Charles Road, Woodstock, IL 60098. We went
there this past Saturday, 10/11/08. It was nice- just what we were looking
for. A no-frills, low-key day picking apples on a farm. There were lots of
varieties to choose from, too. And the apples are crisp and delicious- not
like the ones you get in the store at all! We're very happy that we chose
Homestead. There's room for perhaps a dozen cars in the lot, so it's not
crowded. And finally, if you're going there off of route 47, start looking
for it on your left after you've gone 1/2 mile. It's 3/4 mile from route 47-
not 1 mile as Google maps will tell you."
- Knoll's Apple Orchard and Vegetable Farm -
Apples, home grown produce
15211 Saint Patrick Road, Woodstock, IL 60098. Phone: 815-337-2334. Also
called Knoll's Vegetable Farm and Apple
Orchard. Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to
6 pm. They have a Farmers Market, on farm sales, and Pick-your-own.
Payment: Cash, only.
(Suggested
by a visitor, ADDED: October 03, 2008)
A visitor writes on October 03, 2008: "Loved the farm. Small, quiet just
apples and their own produce. Nice owners who greet you when you pull up. If
you want to pick apple without all the hooppla this the place!"
A visitor writes on October 17, 2008: "We just found
this wonderful "mom & pop" type orchard, which was like a breath of fresh
air after seeing some of the huge orchard extravaganzas. They have about 10
varieties of apple trees. When all of the other orchards were picked clean
(10/12/08), there were still LOADS of apples on this orchard's trees. It's
pretty much undiscovered. If you want to pick apples ... without the corn
maze, hay ride and haunted house .... I definitely recommend Knoll's.
"
A visitor writes on October 22, 2008: "The woman who
owns the farm is such a wonderful and sweet person. I have four small
children, ages 6,4,2,1 years old who are so fully of energy it's hard to
contain. When we arrived, she waited patiently for us to get out of the van
and then met us halfway on the path, greeted us and told us what to do with
the bags. When we asked if we could try the apples, she said, "Sure, that
way you know which apples you like best". She told us the types of apples
they had according to ribbon color. The best part was that there were so few
people there. It was a beautiful day to get out of the city and enjoy this
small and cute apple orchard. She did get busy a bit as people were paying
for their apples and vegetables, but she was ever so nice and thanked each
person individually for coming and asked them to come and visit again.
Coincidentally, almost all of us found her farm from this web site. I read a
review here the morning of Oct 18, and we went out there that afternoon. I
highly recommend this farm for anyone who wants to get out of the city and
take a drive and enjoy some friendly people, beautiful scenery and wonderful
smells of the country. They have wonderfully delicious apples on the trees.
Short trees that the children are able to reach. They have restrooms that
are clean and supplied with toilet paper, hand soap and paper towel. They do
not take credit cards, cash only"
-
Lang's Orchard - Apples
17411 Secor Road, Woodstock, IL 60098. Phone: (815) 568-7547. Email us
langs@langsorchard.com. Directions: From rts. 47 and 176 take 176 west about 4 miles to Franklinville rd and turn rt. Go 1.7 miles on Franklinville rd to Secor
Rd and turn left. Proceed to Farm.
Click here for a map to our farm. We are open September, October. Our hours are: Daily 10 am to 5 pm. Closed on Thursday. Our store features fruit spreads, local honey and arts and crafts.
- McCann Berry Farm - strawberries
18110 Kishwaukee Valley Road, Woodstock, IL 60098 , IL 60098. Phone:
815-568-8810. Fax: 815/568-1062. Email us at:
mtmccann@mc.net. Directions: Take
Route 47 N or S to Route 14. Turn NW. to 2nd stop light. Turn Left onto Kishwaukee
Valley Road 4 miles west of Route 14 ( just past the S curve); 3 miles east
of Route 23.
Click here for a map to our farm. Crops are usually available in June.
Open: June 10 - Call for picking conditions. Weekdays 8 am to 7 pm., Weekends
8am - 5pm depending on availability. Call AHEAD for afternoon picking
conditions. Payment: Cash, Check.
A visitor writes on June 15, 2009:
"Visited on June 13, 2009. I called in the morning for weather update, since
it was raining in Chicago. By the time I got there, it was sunny and very
warm. Very nice and helpful people. Will come back for more berries. Fruits
were big and sweet. Thank you guys." (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: June
15, 2009)
-
More Than Delicious Orchard - Apples, pears, and prepicked produce,
restrooms
9905 W. Thompson Road, Woodstock, IL 60098. Phone: 815-338-2309. Email us at:
vmdownes@gmail.com. Directions: The farm
is located 2 miles east of Woodstock at the corner of Route 120 and W.
Thompson Road. And for a map to our farm,
Click here.
Click here for picking updates.
Crops are usually available in September, October. Open: Saturdays &
Sundays, from 10 am to 5 pm, Opening Saturday, September 13th. Payment:
Cash, Check. We have over 80 varieties of apples and pears. Because of the
hot, wet summer, some varieties are ripening faster than usual. Check our
website for weekly updates on ripening. As always, every week we will have
some unusual apple and pear varieties not listed on the schedule. Please
call or stop by to try an apple you have never had.
-
Prairie Sky Orchard - apples, pumpkins, raspberries, snacks and
refreshment stand, restrooms
4914 N Union Road, Union, IL 60180. Phone: 815-923-4834. Directions:
Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available in
September, October.
Click here for picking updates.
Open: Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Payment: Cash,
Check. (UPDATED: August 27, 2008)
-
Royal Oak Farm Orchard - apples, blackberries, pumpkins,
raspberries, Honey from hives on the farm, Cider mill (fresh apple cider
made on the premises), prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment
stand, restrooms, face painting, petting zoo, farm animals, birthday
parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours
15908 Hebron Road, Harvard, IL 60033. Phone: 815-648-4141. Fax:
815-648-4821. Email:
service@royaloakfarmorchard.com. Directions:
Click here for a map and directions. Picking updates:
Click here for picking updates. Crops are usually available in August,
September, October, November. Open: Monday to Saturday: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm U
- Pick closes at 5:00 pm Closed on Sunday.
Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Raspberries: August 1
to October 15 or first heavy frost Blackberries: September 15 to October 31
or first heavy frost Apples: August 15 to November 15 Pumpkins: September 15
to November 15 or first heavy frost. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard,
Discover. No admission fee Monday to Friday $3.00 Admission fee per car
Saturdays, Labor Day and Columbus Day Rides in the Entertainment Area
include Royal Oak Express, Royal Oak Carousel and Orchard Tours. Each
require a $2.50 token. Free Playground and Petting Zoo. Group Tours and
School Tours available by appointment Monday to Friday. (UPDATED: October
07, 2008)
A visitor writes on December 21, 2008: "Wonderful,
friendly place to bring your kids for a few hours! Not only was the apple
picking plentiful and fun and delicious, but for my 11 year old and my 4
year old, there was plenty to do besides. There is a small barn with some
cute goats and other animals - bring your quarters to feed them! And there
is also a pasture like area where there are some adorable llamas that my 11
year old loved. There are also some play houses, lots of playground areas
and child-sized houses to go in, a carousel, and more. Very fun, so we spent
a few hours here on a weekday, just enjoying the lack of crowds and the
beautiful weather. I highly recommend this place if you're looking to take
your kids apple picking somewhere nice and friendly."
-
Stade's Farm and Market -
Minimizes chemical and pesticide use, pumpkins, strawberries,
gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, Bouncy castle or moon
bounce, pony rides, petting zoo
3709 West Miller Road, Mchenry, IL 60051.
Phone: 815-675-6396. Email:
veggies@stadesfarmandmarket.com. Open: Daily from 9am to 6pm mid June
through mid July.
Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Picking updates:
Click here for picking updates. Directions:
Click here for a map and directions. Our main farm market on Miller Road
is open from the beginning of May to the end of October; Our farm market on
Ringwood Road and McCullom Lake Road opens when the sweet corn is ready;
UPick strawberries are available from mid June to mid July; Our fall
festival,
Shades of Autumn, runs from mid September through the end of October. We
minimize use of pesticides and other chemicals. Payment: Cash,
Visa/MasterCard. Join us every Sunday morning at 10:00am from the first
Sunday in June through the end of October for outdoor contemporary Christian
worship, prayer, and praise at the farm. Every Sunday, worship is led by a
different local congregation. See the Worship page on our web site for our
schedule. (UPDATED: June 18, 2009)
-
Walkup Heritage Farm & Gardens -
follows
organic practices, beans, beets, broccoli, carrots, cucumbers,
eggplant, flowers, herbs/spices, melons, onions, peas, peppers, pumpkins,
summer squash, winter squash, strawberries, tomatoes, other vegetables,
walnuts, Other fruit or veg, Turkeys (organic, not-hormone-fed), prepicked
produce, picnic area, weddings and wedding parties, school tours
5215 Walkup Road, Crystal Lake, IL 60012. Phone: 815/459-7090. Directions:
And for a map to our farm,
click here. Crops are usually available in April through October. Open: 7 days 10 to 6 starting Earth Day (third Saturday in April) and ending
November 1st; Closed Sundays until 1 pm. All heirloom varieties; "Jewel"
Strawberries mid June to July 4th; Other produce as available seasonally;
Fresh greens from hoophouse to early December; Poinsettias for 2009; Also
native plants and heirloom annuals and perennials, including roses and
peonies; Fresh eggs from heritage chickens for 2009. We follow organic
practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, Check. (ADDED:
September 26, 2008)
-
Woodstock
Country Orchard - raspberries.
17015 Garden Valley Road,
Woodstock, IL 60098. Phone: (815) 923-4359. See these pages
for more information: [Hours]
[Map] [Schedule]
[Varieties]
[Prices]
Ogle County
- The Berry Patch - strawberries
17650 W.Barclay Road, Milledgeville, IL, 61051. Phone:
815-225-5560/815-631-4204. 2007 prices: You pick: $1/lb; we pick:
$2.75/quart. A visitor writes: "The owner's names are Mark
and Laurie. Very nice people."
-
Granny's Berries - blueberries. raspberries
S. White Rock Road,
Rochelle, IL 61068 Phone: 815-562-4462 or toll free 866-562-4462. call for picking conditions; blueberries after July 1; fresh raspberries after August 15.
3405
- Rainwater's Pumpkin Patch
- Pick your own pumpkins.
14676 Twombly Road, Rochelle, IL. Pumpkins
of all sizes and shapes, including fancy white pumpkins, miniature pumpkins and
gourds, squash of all varieties, Indian corn, corn shocks and hay bales. Group
tours available by appointment. Late September - October 31, 9AM - dusk, 7 days
a week. Phone: 815-562-8587.
Putnam County
-
Boggios Orchard and Produce - Pick Your Own apples and pumpkins, petting zoo, fresh
apple cider, Indian corn, variety of squash, Corn Maze, popcorn, and gourds.
12087 Illinois Hwy 71, Granville, IL, 61326. Phone: 815-339-2245.
and Phone: 815/339-2460.
Email:
justina@boggiosorchardandproduce.com. Directions: From the intersection of SR (State Route) 26 and I 80 in
Princeton, go east on I 80 for 4.3 miles to Exit 61/I 180. Go south
on I 180 for 13.4 miles. At the Connecting Road exit, take the ramp
for SR 71 and go east 4.9 miles to the market on the right. Open: Daily, July
through mid November. Handicap Accessible; Restrooms; Hiking; Picnic
area, Fresh picked vegetables and bake items. (UPDATED: October 18,
2008)
Rock Island County
- Happy Hollow U-Pick - asparagus, beans, beets, blackberries, broad beans, broccoli, carrots, corn (sweet), cucumbers, eggplant
(aubergine), flowers, melons, onions, other berries, peas, peppers, pumpkins, raspberries, rhubarb, summer squash, winter squash, strawberries, tomatoes, other vegetables
17325 - 20th Avenue North, East Moline, IL 61244. Phone: 309/496-1515.
Directions: 1 mile north of the Quad City Downs or 1 mile west of the Interstate 80 and 88 interchange. Click here for a map to our farm. We are open May, October. Our hours are: Vegetable season,
from Monday thru Saturday from 9 to 5. We are closed Sundays thru the last
weekend in September.
Pumpkin Season, 7 days a week from 10-5. Our claim to fame is the number of varieties of Hot Peppers that we grow. We grow about 30 varieties ranging from 0 on the Scovill rating up to 550,000.
Our 48 varieties of vegetables are grown for taste and not high production yields.
We also raise goats and sheep for meat and or pet sales. Month of October, We have a Haunted Hovel in conjunction with our local Barstow Volunteer Fire Dept. Voted in the Quad Cities to be the best for the last couple of years. Weekend Evenings in October.
- Shady Knoll Farm - raspberries, strawberries, tomatoes,
asparagus, beets, sweet corn and walnuts.
3115 Dennhardt Road,
East Moline, IL 61244 Phone: 309-496-9636.
Stark County
See Tanner's in Marshall County
Whiteside County
- Hazel Creek Vineyard - grapes,
23060 Hazel Road, Sterling, IL 61081. Phone: 815-499-5229. Fax:
815-625-3377. Email:
vvmiller@essex1.com. Directions: Interstate 88 to Sterling/Rock Falls.
Take Exit 36 to US-30 West. From the stop sign go straight on US-30 West for
2.6 miles. Turn right on Habben Road and travel 1.7 miles. Turn right on
Hazel Road and travel 1/2 mile. And for a map to our farm,
click here. Crops are usually available in August, September. Open:
Saturday's and Sunday's, 9 am to 4 pm or by appointment. Payment: Cash,
only. U-Pick and pre-picked grapes available. (ADDED: August 19, 2008)
- Wainwright
Orchards
- raspberries.
Roadside Market.
922-265th St North,
Hillsdale, IL 61257. Phone: (309) 658-2475.
(Retail outlet in Hillsdale, but the telephone number is for the
farm.)
Will County
-
Bengston Pumpkin Farm
- U-pick pumpkin
farm.
13341 West 151 St, Lockport, IL. Phone: 708-301-3276. Also haunted barn, hayrides, pig races, pony rides, fun barn, farm
animals, custom shop and concession stand. Open: October 10AM - 8PM. Admission
charged.
- Butterprint Farm - pumpkins,
winter squash, gourds and popcorn
24936 S. 80th. Avenue, Monee, IL 60449. Phone: 708 534 - 8801. Email us at:
butterprintfarm@cs.com. Directions: Take I 57 to the Monee Manhattan Exit. Head West for 2.3 miles to 80th. Avenue. Turn right heading north for 7/10 of a mile and a giant pumpkin will greet you!
Click here for a map to our farm. We are open October. Our hours are: Saturdays and Sundays 10am till 6 pm in October Pumpkin picking at the Butterprint Farm is designed to give a glimpse of days gone by on the farm. It's a place where the family can get away to a place in the country not to far from Chicago.
Our name Butterprint comes from the seed capsule of the Velvet leaf plant once used by the early settlers to make fancy patterns in their butter.
Enjoy a three quarters of a mile round trip hayride. Go across the creek to the pumpkin patch to pick 1 of over 15 varieties of pumpkins, also gourds and squash. Our ScareCrow Corn Maze will confuse you. Indian corn, hardy mums, and honey from our farm is also available as well as concessions. There is also old time rope making, Corn Cracking and processing demonstrations. Make a wooden bird feeder the old fashioned way. Visit the Butterprint Prairie and Museum. There is also face painting, Hay and barrel car rides, puppet shows and a petting zoo. Main events include a fiddlers Competition and various live entertainment.
- Dunn's Farmstand - asparagus, strawberries, green beans,
okra, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, eggplant.
21302 W. Angle Road,
Wilmington, IL 61481 Phone: 815-476-7667.
Directions: 2 miles east of Wilmington off Route 102. Follow signs.
Open: 9 am – 5 pm, daily. Appointments welcome.
-
Garden Patch Farms & Orchard - Apples, blackberries,
cherries, cucumbers, currants (red and black), eggplant, grapes, gooseberries, pears, peaches, peppers, plums, raspberries, summer squash, strawberries, tomatoes
14154 W. 159th Street, Homer Glen, IL 60491. Phone: 708-301-7720. Email us at: sales@gardenpatchfarms.com. Directions: garden patch is located on 159th St. (Route 7) 1 mile east of Cedar
Road and 1 mile west of Parker Road in Homer Glen, Illinois. Click here for a map to our farm. We are open May, June, July, August, September, October. Our hours are: Monday thru Sunday, 8 am to 6 pm specific harvesting dates are
provided at our web-site events
calendar. garden patch is an ideal facility for hosting group outings with
tours to our fruit orchards & flower greenhouses, fall activities include pumpkins, jump castle and straw maze, hayrack rides. Many other fruits and vegetables, unusual included, available at fruit stand.
A visitor writes on September 21, 2008:
"I went there this weekend and honestly it had a great variety of
products, yet the people who worked there were so rude it made it
difficult to enjoy. It really bothered me and ruined my weekend. The
rudest of them all was an older women at the register. I truly hope
she isn't the owner because that is terrible for business. She
rolled her eyes and yelled at me. She seemed to not be enjoying what
she is doing. If it wasn't for the staff I would have liked to
return. It isn't a cheap place so I would rather take my business
else where were I can be treated like a human being."
A visitor writes on October 06, 2008:
"I have no idea why the previous posting was so negative but our
afternoon at the farm was wonderful. Granted the cost per person is
$5.00 and you pay 1.99/lb for most fruit and 1.25/lb for apples
picked but you are paying for the farm experience. If you want to
waive the 'pick-your-own' fee then their stall pricing is pretty
competitive. The staff were very helpful if a little burned out but
it is the end of the season after all. Most of the fruit was picked
through but there is still a good selection of apples left on the
trees. We're definitely going back!"
Does anyone else have a comment (positive or negative?)
Write me!
- Jim Gorman Vegetables - tomatoes,
peppers and hot peppers
30643 S. Route 53,
Wilmington, IL 60481 (Will County) Phone: 815-476-7514. Will have melons, sweet corn, apples and peaches later
in season at stand only
-
Tammen Treeberry Farm
- blueberries.
37131 Essex Road,
Wilmington, IL 60481 (Will County) Phone: 815-458-6264 or 800-892-5989.
E-mail:
btammen@tammentreeberryfarm.net. (UPDATED: October 12,
2008)
- Tom and Zach's Pumpkin Patch - corn
(sweet), pumpkins,
15725 W Bruce Road, Lockport, IL 60441. Phone: 815-838-6816. Email:
tommcnamara07@gmail.com. Directions:
Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available
in August, October. Open: Everyday, 8 am to 6 pm.
We minimize use of pesticides and other
chemicals. Payment: Cash, only. (ADDED: October 19,
2008)
Winnebago County
- Bethkes' Farm Apples
- raspberries.
6587 Cherry Valley Road, Cherry Valley, IL. Apples:
Royal Gala, Big Jon, Ozark Gold and cider. Open: June - October, 10 am to 6 PM
daily. Phone: 815-522-2215.
-
Curran's Orchard - Tart Cherries (on dwarf trees) Apples (on
dwarf trees), raspberries, straw maze, hayrides and pumpkins.
6385 Kilburn Ave. (Route 70), Rockford, IL, 61101. Phone: 815-963-7848 .
Email us at:
p.d.curran@att.net.
Open: for Cherry picking in summer and for Apples in Fall. Raspberries: pick
your own in August - October. Tart Cherries, pick your own in late June -
early July. Pumpkins, enjoy picking that perfect pumpkin from our pumpkin
patch, or chose from our pre-picked pumpkins. Complimentary hay wagon rides
through the orchard on weekends. Evening wagon rides for groups (by
reservation only). Mini straw bales maze! School Tours! A petting corral
with farm animals for the kids to enjoy. A glass observation bee hive in the
sales barn with live bees (don't worry, the bees are enclosed in the glass
hive). Great tasting jams, apple butter, salad dressings, and real maple
syrup. Restrooms & picnic
area available. September thru November: 9:00am - 6:00pm, six days a week
(closed Mondays). November thru December: 9:00am - 5:00pm, six days a week
(closed Mondays).
- Edwards Apple Orchards
- raspberries.
8218 Cemetry Road,
Winnebago, IL 61088. Phone: (815) 963-2261. (UPDATED: July
21, 2008)
- Valley Orchard
Farms
- raspberries.
811 East State Street,
Cherry Valley, IL 61016. Phone: (815) 332-9696. Roadside Market.
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