Farms for Berry Picking Around Seattle, the Eastside and South Sound
Photo:
Whether you pick your berries or find them at the farmstand, it's a sweet summer tradition. Credit: iStock
Key tips for picking berries with kids
When it comes to spending a day on a berry farm with kids, preparation is key. We’ve spent our summers picking berries with kids in tow and can speak from experience. The following tips and tricks make for a sweet day of berry-picking memories.
- Know when to pick berries: Check farm websites and Facebook pages or call ahead on the day you want to go to make sure U-pick is happening and to confirm times.
- Check where you’re going: Double-check the farm’s website for the address and directions, as some map apps don’t work as well for more rural locations.
- Get there early (or late): Arrive early, as fields can get picked out by noon. If a farm has plenty of U-pick availability, show up in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and direct sun.
- Know what to wear berry picking: Keep in mind that fields typically have little shade, so bring hats, sunscreen, water, snacks and — for little kids — some alternative diversions, such as bubbles. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes (rain boots are a favorite for muddy days on the farm).
- Bring the berry-picking essentials: Boxes or pails are often provided for picking, but check first or bring your own. Also bring cash, or make sure the farm accepts credit cards. Smaller farms may be cash only, while bigger farms often accept cards.
- Leave the pets at home: Dogs or pets are not allowed at any of the farms unless noted.
- Know the sampling policy: Typically, farms don’t mind if kids eat as they pick (or as they run around) but double-check. You may also want to rinse your berries before snacking to avoid any residue from birds, bugs or farming sprays.
- Manage your expectations: Especially with small kids in tow, keep your picking expectations low. Strawberries, because they grow close to the ground, are the most physically demanding to pick. Raspberries and blueberries tend to be easier picking (at least for grown-ups). And remember: You can usually buy pre-picked berries at a farm as well, often for only a bit more than the U-pick price. Either way, you go home with berries. We call that a win!
