Blueberry Picking Places in Mount Vernon, New York: A Family Adventure Guide
Hello, lovely families of Mount Vernon and fellow blueberry enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a berry delightful journey? Today, we’re going to explore the sweet world of blueberry picking right here in Mount Vernon, New York. Get your baskets ready, because we’ve got a bushel of fun ahead!
Why Pick Blueberries in Mount Vernon?
Blueberry picking isn’t just a fun family activity; it’s a chance to connect with nature, educate your kids on where their food comes from, and even sneak in a little exercise. The beautiful scenery of Mount Vernon provides an idyllic backdrop for such an outing, and our local blueberry farms offer some of the freshest, most succulent berries you can find. Let’s not forget the countless delicious recipes you can create with your haul!
Preparing for Your Blueberry Picking Adventure
Before we dive into the where, let’s talk about the how-to. Picking blueberries is quite the treat, but coming prepared will make your adventure even sweeter:
- Dress appropriately: Weather can be quite fickle, so layer up! Lightweight, breathable clothing is best, and closed-toe shoes are a must in the fields.
- Bring supplies: Sunscreen, hats, bottles of water, and light snacks are your best friends on sunny days. Most farms provide containers for picking, but bringing your own can never hurt.
- Check ahead: Always call ahead or check the farm’s website for hours and berry availability. There’s nothing sadder than a blueberry fan missing out on prime picking time.
Top Blueberry Farms Near Mount Vernon, NY
Now, for the main event! Here are some top-notch blueberry farms that are just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Mount Vernon:
Blueberry Hill Farm
Just a short drive from Mount Vernon, Blueberry Hill Farm welcomes you with open arms and blueberry bushes aplenty. It’s a family-friendly spot with rows upon rows of blueberry varieties.
Season: Typically, blueberry season runs from late June to August, but dates can vary year to year. Check their website for the most current information.
What to Expect: A fun-filled day where the blueberries are as ample as the smiles. They often have activities for the kiddos and sometimes even a hayride!
Berrylicious Orchards
At Berrylicious Orchards, they take their blueberries seriously, but they also know how to have a berry good time! They pride themselves on sustainable farming practices and have a range of berry varieties.
Season: Call ahead for the best picking times, and keep an eye on their social media pages for updates.
What to Expect: Not only can you pick to your heart’s content, but they also offer pre-picked berries for those in a bit of a hurry. Picnic areas are available to enjoy a snack among the scenery.
Mount Vern-Berry Farm
A local gem, Mount Vern-Berry Farm is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy a more intimate and relaxed berry picking experience. It’s perfect for those looking for organic options.
Season: Anticipated times vary, so it’s best to give them a ring or follow them for the latest news on when their bushes are bursting with berries.
What to Expect: A charming and peaceful setting where you can take your time exploring the organic blueberry bushes. The farm usually offers insight into their organic farming techniques for inquiring minds.
5 Essential Tips for Parents Preparing for a Blueberry Picking Trip
- Educate Your Little Ones: Before heading out, have a mini-lesson with your children about how blueberries grow and the importance of gently picking ripe berries. This will make the experience more meaningful and prevent any berry squashing mishaps.
- Plan for Potty Breaks: Make sure to know where the restrooms are located at the farm. If facilities are limited, be prepared with a portable potty for young kids, plus wipes and hand sanitizer.
- Pack for Success: Besides the usual outdoor essentials, bring along a cooler with ice packs to keep your picked berries fresh until you get home. A first-aid kit for any scrapes or stings is also a good idea.
- Create a Game Plan: Discuss with your kids what you’ll do with the berries. Will you eat them fresh, bake a pie, or make jam? This will get them excited about not just the picking, but the post-picking activities as well.
- Teach Respect for the Farm: Let your children know the importance of following the farm rules, not trampling plants, and being considerate to other pickers. This reinforces good citizenship and stewardship of the land.
Maximizing Your Blueberry Bounty
Once you’ve picked your berries, the fun doesn’t stop! Get creative in the kitchen with your family. Blueberries make excellent ingredients for pancakes, muffins, jams, or simply tossed in a summer salad. Engage your children in the process – from washing their hand-picked treasures to measuring ingredients – it’s all part of the blueberry picking experience.
Blueberry picking in Mount Vernon, New York is a wholesome activity the whole family can savor. Not only will it build lasting memories, but it’s also a splendid way to support local agriculture and instill in your children the joys of healthy eating and living. Ready your pails and your palates for a day of sun, fun, and berries. Let the blueberry adventure in Mount Vernon be the highlight of your summer!
See more great Things to Do with Kids in New York here. For more information see here
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