The time is ripe to hit the farm in Georgia for juicy strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and peaches (not to mention other perks, like pony rides, tractor rides, corn pits, maybe a CSA box program, and inflatables at some spots). There’s no denying these Atlanta u-pick farms have got it all for families. While different crops ripen at different times, we’ve picked our favorite farms to take the small set for a day of fresh air, berry-stained fingers, and happy hearts. Read on for more about our favorite fields for strawberry (and other berries!) picking fun.

Note: If you’re looking for U-pick apple orchards, we’ve got seven to visit that aren’t too far from the city.

Wild Fern Ranch

Wild Fern Ranch offers around 1000 Certified All Natural (CNG) blueberry bushes of 3 different varieties that yield roughly 500 pound of delish blueberries per week. Open and in season from early June through mid July (check social media pages for details), you can visit from Mon.-Sat. for u-pick from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Don't miss community days weekly for discounted picking and Friday night events for live music.

12000 Hutchesons Ferry Rd.
Palmetto, GA 30268
404-545-4171

Warbington Farms

Offering a “Farm Fun Park” that includes a petting zoo, corn crib, inflatable slides, bounce house and playground set, this u-pick has the market cornered on farm fun in Forsyth County. Other perks include live bluegrass music and "hey" rides (pricing for Family Fun Park is $9 per child and $5 for ages 12 years and older, plus tax). Strawberry picking hours will be determined by availability and weather, so check here for current conditions before you go.

5555 Crow Rd.
Cumming, Ga
770-380-2920
Online: warbingtonfarms.com

Adams Farm

Blueberries are the newest addition to the u-pick options at Adams Farm in Fayetteville, and since the fields are netted, you don't have to compete with the birds for the berries. Containers are provided, there's a market with fruits and vegetables, and you can visit Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

1486 Georgia Highway 54 West
Fayetteville, Ga
770-461-9395
Online: adamsfarmfayettevillega.com

Washington Farms

At this Watkinsville farm, spring strawberry season begins in mid-April and comes not only with buckets for berry picking, but also four super Saturdays where activities include wagon rides, a petting zoo, a cow train, a corn box, and more. Go later in the summer for blackberries, and pick your pumpkins there in the fall. Just be sure you pick before you play to make sure that the fields don't get picked out early! Open Monday-Saturdays 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Sundays.

5691 Hog Mountain Rd.
Bogart, Ga 30622
770-554-8119
Online: washingtonfarms.net

DJ's U-Pick Blueberry Farm

For a closer-to-town option, DJ's—located a stone's throw from the Gwinnett Braves stadium—specializes in blueberries, but they also have Scottish Highland Cows (Coco & Rudolph) and goats on our farm. Please check DJ's Facebook page daily for hours or call ahead to make sure they are indeed open for the day. Open Monday-Sunday from 8 a.m. until picked out.

1839 Prospect Rd.
Lawrenceville, Ga
678-442-7853
Online: djsupickblueberries.com

Moon Farms Country Market

At Moon Farms Country Market, you'll find over 25,000 plants consisting of two different varieties of strawberries— Camarosa and Chandler. Pick-your-own fresh from the farm, or call ahead and place a pre-pick order. Check the website for fruit availability, and go Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sun. from 2-6 p.m.

3498 GA-72
Colbert, Ga 30628
706-338-0065
Online: moon-farms.com

 

Southern Belle Farm

Head to this 330-acre family farm in McDonough for pick-your-own berries, plus a country market, jumping pillows, a cow train, pedal cars, a hayride, a giant tube slide, and more (all on the weekends). Admission to the farm activities is $8/ person, but the berries are free to pick (you pay for what you pick after you're finished picking). Go Mon.-Fri. from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sundays 1-6 p.m. Do yourself a favor and pick up an order of strawberry shortcake (with or without soft serve ice cream) before you leave!

1658 Turner Church Rd.
McDonough, Ga
770-288-2582
Online: southernbellefarm.com

Mercier Orchards

This family orchard, now in its 4th generation, begins picking season with strawberries in mid to late April, then offers blueberries, blackberries, peaches, and apples through the summer and into the fall. Go for the u-picks on select dates, but stay for the bakery and deli, market store, and now a farm winery and cider house.  Open seven days a week from 7 a.m.-6 p.m., but u-picks are available only on select dates, weather permitting.

8660 Blue Ridge Dr.
Blue Ridge, Ga 30513
706-632-3411
Online: mercier-orchards.com

Mitcham Farm

This working farm in Oxford, Georgia offers seasonal u-pick patches for strawberries and blueberries in the spring, blackberries in the summer, and pumpkins in the fall. Hours depend on availability of the crop and the weather, so be sure to check this out before you load the car. In addition to the fields, Mitcham Farm also has homemade strawberry ice cream, strawberry jam, local honey, frog jam, preserves, salsas, fresh produce (depending on availability) and other specialty items for sale at their Farm Stand, in addition to two family swings, a farm animal viewing area, and a picnic area onsite. Go Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sun. from 1-5 p.m., weather permitting. Check their Facebook page for live updates on picking conditions.

797 Macedonia Church Rd.
Oxford, Ga 30054
770-855-1530
Online: mitchamfarm.com

Fleeman's Blueberries

Fleeman’s offers clean potties, a picnic table under the shade of an old oak and eight varieties of Rabbit-Eye, pesticide-free blueberries perfect for little pickers. Prices and hours will vary depending on weather and crop availability, but the picking season typically runs from late June through August. Call ahead to check out the farmer's forecast for the day.

716 Harrison Mill Rd.
Winder, Ga
770-867-3420
Online: fleemansblueberries.com

Jaemor Farms

While they only open their farm for strawberry picking one day a year—this year on May 5—the folks at Jaemor Farm know how to throw a party. In addition to picking, the kiddos will go bananas over the hayrides, petting zoo, farm slide, skeeball and duck races, while you can taste a couple of new recipes at the strawberry cook-off and check out the local vendors at the festival portion of the farm. Don't miss the homemade strawberry milkshakes and fresh milk samples from Mountain Fresh Creamery's mobile dairy unit. Check website for updates on u-pick events.

5340 Cornelia Hwy.
Alto, Ga 30510
770-869-3999
Online: jaemorfarms.com

Remember to always call ahead since farm hours and crop availability are constantly in flux. Also note that many farms are cash only so hit the bank before hitting the road! Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, bug spray, and water.

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Fall in NYC is glorious, but it’s also a good time to get away and enjoy some time outside of the city. Looking for a day trip with kids but don’t have a car? No worries: we rounded up day trips you can get to by train. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning—it’s time to get away, even for a day!

LONG ISLAND RAILROAD (LIRR)

fall day trip nyc
Planting Fields Arboretum via Yelp

Oyster Bay
A quick 90-minute train ride can transport you to this hamlet on the North Shore of Long Island in Nassau county. Visit the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, dedicated to our Former President who was once a frequent commuter on the LIRR himself.

Families with train-lovers should check out the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum (open Saturdays and Sundays) and learn the important role railroads played in America's history. A quick taxi ride will bring you to the Planting Fields Arboretum, a 400+ acre 1920s Gold Coast estate with gorgeous gardens and landscapes designed by the Olmstead brothers, two greenhouses and a preserved Tudor Revival mansion showcasing the art and artistry of its time. Planting Fields offers lots of free resources for kids and families to make exploring the natural landscape even more engaging. 

You can also take a trip back in time at the Raynham Hall Museum, home of George Washington's secret agent Robert Townsend!

To eat and drink try Cooper Bluff at Oyster Bay Harbor (open through October), Oyster Bay Brewing Company, or Bonanza's Stand, for Italian ices and hot dogs any which way. 

Get there: Take the LIRR Babylon line to Oyster Bay Station

NC via Yelp

Farmingdale, NY
Fall is a great time to visit Long Island amusement park Adventureland, which opened in 1962, and offers rides for little ones and kids a bit older who want some thrills. The park is open on weekends until Nov. 7, and is hosting Halloween shows and events in October. 

Get there: Take the LIRR Ronkonkoma line to Farmingdale

2245 Broad Hollow Rd.
Farmingdale, NY 
631-694-6868
Online: adventureland.us

fall day trip from nyc
ML via Yelp

Melville, NY

Enjoy fall fun at Schmitt’s Family Farm Annual Fall Festival, happening now on weekends until October 31st. It’s accessible by a 1-hour train ride followed by a 10-minute taxi ride. Admission fee of $10 a person includes a hayride, playground, mini-golf and photo ops. The farm also offers pumpkin picking, vegetable picking, a haunted house, a corn maze, petting zoo, a farm stand and more all priced separately.

Get there: Take the LIRR Ronkonkoma line to Pinelawn Station or the Port Jefferson line to Huntington Station and catch a 10-minute cab ride. 

26 Pinelawn Rd.
Melville, NY
631-271-3276
Online: schmittfarms.com

METRO-NORTH RAILROAD 

storm king art center day trip
Wikimedia Creative Commons

Beacon, NY & Storm King Art Center 

Sit on the left side of your Metro-North train car for spectacular views of the Hudson River. Shop local and support handmade at one of the many shops or pop into an art gallery. Beacon is home to celebrated contemporary art center Dia: Beacon. If you want even more art, take advantage of this package deal which includes a short shuttle ride and admission to Storm King Center (shown here) where you and the kids can take in the oversized sculptures among incredible foliage across 500-acres. 

For food, we'd recommend Melzingah Tap House on Main Street in Beacon for a sit down meal, and Beacon Pantry, is a good stop for sandwiches or fancy picnic supplies on the go. Don't leave Beacon without visiting Glazed Over Donuts, where you'll find all kinds of extreme confections.   

Get there: Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Beacon Station

Cold spring ny day trip
Wikimedia Creative Commons

Cold Spring, NY

The Village of Cold Spring offers gentle hiking trails at the West Point Foundry Preserve as well as the Little Stony Point trails along the Hudson River. Through November 11, you can hop a trolley to get to the nearby Boscobel House and Gardens to view decorative arts and furniture from the Federal period, or check out the Mid-century home of designer Russel Wright known as Manitoga. The  Cold Springs Tiny Tot park is a fun stop, as is The Gift Hut on Main Street. 

For food, try Hudson Hil's for American classics done well, Brasserie Le Bouchon for French fare with the option of outdoor seating, and Moo Moo's Creamery for ice cream. 

Get there: Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Cold Spring Station
 

day trips by train nyc
Wikimedia Creative Commons

Poughkeepsie, NY 
Experience walking across the world's longest pedestrian elevated walkway with a view of peak fall foliage. You can get to The Walkway over the Hudson Historic Strate Park by train in under two hours from Manhattan. Walk across and back for a stroll just under three miles, or turn around at any time. Be sure to stop by the seven-foot bronze statue of Sojourner Truth, an American Abolitionist and women's rights activist. This monument commemorates the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage.

For food, we recommend Farmer's & Chefs for yummy farm-to-table, Lola's Cafe for good food and major convenience (it's located right next to the stairs to the walkway), and its sister restaurant Lolita's Pizza, also nearby. 

Get there: Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Poughkeepsie Station

NJ TRANSIT 

six flags fright fest nj
Anita W. via Yelp

Jackson Township, NJ
Got kids hankering for some Halloween thrills? Check out this NJT deal that includes a round-trip bus trip and admission to Six Flags Great Adventure. (Yes, this is a bus, not a train.) Little ghouls and goblins will enjoy a "Thrills by Day" adventure that includes areas decorated for Halloween, a Trick-or-Treat Trail and live shows.

Get there: Take the 308 Express Bus to Six Flags Great Adventure from either New York Port Authority Bus Terminal or Newark Penn Station

Online: njtransit.com

American Dream mall NJ
American Dream Mall

American Dream Mall, East Rutherford, NJ
If you want to do something fun with your family but can't decide on what, then head on over to the American Dream Mall where you'll find lots of choices!  Some options include Legoland Discovery Center, SeaLife Aquarium, an Olympic-size ice-skating rink and indoor amusement park Nickelodeon Universe which is hosting Halloween-themed fun through October 31. Halloween weekend will feature a costume contest, trick-or-treat scavenger hunt, and spooktacular fun for everyone. Other Halloween fun at American Dream includes a huge 50-spider installation and Spooky Skate at The Rink.

Get there: there are several ways to get to American Dream Mall including their official rideshare partner: Lyft.

Online: americandream.com

Liberty Science Center

Jersey City, NJ
While we realize that some of our readers may live in Jersey City (we know why—it's nice!), it's also a fun day trip for NYC-area non-residents. Head straight for the Liberty Science Center (you must buy tickets in advance) which boasts several floors of hands-on exhibits and impressive climbing structures. They celebrate Halloween with gusto here, with a giant spider web maze, just for starters. If you want to relax afterward bring a picnic and enjoy Liberty State Park, which has tons of green space for the kids to run around and an incredible view of the NYC skyline. 

Get there: Take the PATH to Pavonia/Newport or Exchange Place station and transfer to the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR). LSC is just five rail stops from the World Trade Center.

Closed on Mondays 
Liberty Science Center
222 Jersey City Blvd.
Liberty State Park
201-200-1000
Online: lsc.org

—Wai Sze Zara

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A new indoor playground for Seattle kids is always worth celebrating (hello, rainy day play spot!). When it doubles as an immersive experience where kids can explore real-world diversity, it’s even better. That’s why we’re excited to welcome Child Wonder the World to the Seattle playscape. Read on to learn about this mom-owned business that’s opening soon.

The Play Side

At Child Wonder the World, kids can explore cultures from around the globe in one place. From the moment they walk through the welcoming gate into the play area, they’ll be transported—no plane needed! As owner Giselle Fuerte explains, it's a place for kids to “explore the different ways people live their lives and experience the world.” It’s her hope that when kids play here they begin to “see and value the world as a diverse chorus of voices, perspectives and needs necessitating equal consideration.” Parents and caregivers will notice this ethos in every nook and cranny of the indoor playground.

The large windows and wall decals that frame the play area create an inviting environment for tots and big kids alike. Upon first glance, the space looks like others—with a playhouse, climbing structure, farm stand and more. But it’s the details that prove things aren’t necessarily what they seem. The painted playhouse is actually a West African Rammed Earth Home, and the oven just outside is similar to earthen (or clay) ovens used by cultures all over the globe. Even the play food is representative of staples from other cultures, like sardines, sushi and lentils. Look for the helpful sheets nearby that explain each purposeful element. Read them, then share the fascinating connections and facts you learn with your kids.

Cross over the bridge to get to a quieter place to play in the back. Tiny tables line the walls where kids can sit down with a good book, set in a far-off place. Or put on headphones to listen to music that’s anything but local. Little artists will happily sit and color at another table before heading over to play with the beautifully designed natural wood people set across the way. These stations are a chance for kids to experience different languages, rhythms and ideas from diverse cultures.

Fuerte also has plans to install a display case that will feature artifacts and everyday treasures from various countries. Like a small museum, what’s in the case will rotate, and everything you see will be respectfully curated thanks to the knowledge and guidance of people who are native to the country on display.

The Shop Side

In addition to the educational playspace, look for toys, games and clothes produced by makers from around the world (and some local too) on the store side. In fact, some of the books and playsets your kids will love in the play area may be available for purchase so you can continue your exploration at home. Whether your kiddo has a friend’s birthday party on the horizon or you’re looking for some new play clothes, items with a focus on the world beyond Seattle are sold here. Who knows, you may even find owner Fuerte’s book, The Lying Liar Called Racism on the shelves too.

Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase if you need to push pause on play. Café tables dot the play area perimeter and make this a great spot to catch up with friends (it’s been a long time, hasn’t it?) while the kids play.

Make It a Day

If it’s been a while since you’ve been to Burien, take time to explore the area before heading home. Lollipops is just a few storefronts away, and families can always count on fun in the sun at Seahurst Park, whether they’re exploring tide pools or the nature-themed playground. The Highline Heritage Museum (open Fridays through Sundays, from 1-5 p.m.) is another easy stop for families to make. And before you head home, you’ve got to grab a cookie (or two!) from Treat Cookies. The store opened in April of this year and has fans all over the city.

Opening Day: Aug. 3
Dates & Times: Tues.-Sat., 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Cost: TBD

Child Wonder the World
2202 S.W. 152nd St.
Burien, WA
Online: childwondertheworld.com

—story and images by Allison Sutcliffe

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If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s the value of self-reliance and a greater appreciation of the freedoms that the great outdoors affords—which is exactly why community gardens are blooming everywhere in Atlanta! Keep reading for our favorite spots to learn how to garden, to plant your own garden, or to support local farmers.

Volunteer & Learn

West End Community Garden
Are you interested in learning how to create and sustain your own garden? How about learning the countless benefits of eating healthy, homegrown foods? Want to experience the amazing sensation of garden therapy? If this sounds like the place for you, then meet Haylene Green, the Garden Queen, whose goal is to teach people how to identify, grow and prepare healthy food, especially in at risk communities.

Volunteer: Volunteers are needed Monday-Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays noon to 4 p.m. (1 hour minimum). Yo might plant seeds & seedlings, build boxes, make compost, weed, help with general clean-up, recycling, food preparation, painting, or helping with the market.

352 University Avenue SW
Atlanta, GA
678-933-1087
Online: thegardenqueen.com

Lakewood Environmental Arts Foundation (LEAF)
Operating in the Lakewood neighborhood, this 501C-3 has a house and 6 acres where they receive thousands of pounds of donated food every week that they distribute to individuals, families, churches and other non-profits in the Greater Atlanta area. Expect to find many weekly volunteers who help unpack and distribute food, and a handful of resident volunteers who help with distribution and maintaining the property, garden and compost.

Volunteer: LEAF is almost always looking for more hands to help with tasks around the property. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Cassie at cassie@leaftrust.net.

69 Schell Rd.
Atlanta, GA
678-353-8730
Online: facebook.com/leaftrust

 

 

 

Plant & Maintain Your Own

Blue Heron Nature Preserve Community Garden
The garden is home to over 30 organic plots, and the largest plot is dedicated to growing vegetables for the St. Luke’s Crossroads Kitchen, a volunteer-based effort that feeds unhoused people in Midtown. This garden is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, and annual fees ensure gardeners are given their own plot to tend. The garden is organic, and organic gardening principles must be followed: no chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. Gardeners are also responsible for working together to maintain the common areas in the garden.

Membership Info: Contact the Garden team (gardenmembership@bhnp.org) for plot availability and waitlist. Annual dues are $100.

4055 Roswell Rd. NE
Atlanta, GA
404-946-6394
Online: bhnp.org

Cabbagetown Community Garden
The Community Garden's mission is to leverage its unique urban location to engage the community, educate gardeners of all ages and backgrounds, and empower them to plant, grow and harvest healthy, organic food. The Garden is built on city owned property but not located on parkland. With the help of city council, Park Pride and CI, the city passed legislature to realize a community effort to created a shared gardening space.

Membership Info: Dues for the 2020 season were $42, and paid for the adoption of one plot in the Community Garden, access to onsite water and gardening equipment, maintenance of non-growing areas in the garden (lawns, pathways, beehives, table space), early access invitations to all Community Garden social events and fundraisers, and subscription to Garden-related news through the Cabbagetown Neighborhood Improvement Association (CNIA). Membership is open to Cabbagetown neighbors having lived in the neighborhood between 0 - 10 years.

162 Berean Ave.
Atlanta, GA
Online: facebook.com/cabbagetown-community-garden

Shop & Support

Global Growers Network
GGN partners with people from diverse cultures who grow fresh food for their families and for local marketplaces. Together, they build and sustain networks of growers, land, resources, and markets in order to create a more equitable food system that is driven by cultural diversity, inclusive economies, and regenerative agriculture practices.

How to Support: Global Growers Network offers fresh veggies grown in Decatur through a safe, no-contact order and pick-up system. With support from the farm stand, new Americans are rebuilding their lives in the United States by using their agricultural expertise to nourish their families and yours.

Online: globalgrowers.org

Gilliam's Community Garden
Gilliam's is a 3-acre sustainable urban garden located in Atlanta's Westside neighborhood that produces beautiful vegetables, herbs, fresh eggs, and their very own dried spice blends. Gilliam's Community Garden serves as an outdoor educational center for local children, homeschool families and schools seeking unique science-based and STEM learning. They provide cooking classes for seniors, as well as learning tours and urban farming experiences for volunteer groups. Core to their mission is the determination to see more healthy, equitable communities across Atlanta.

How to Support: A mobile farmers market, known as their beloved "green machine, " allows you to have boxes of fresh vegetables delivered to families, as well as home-bound seniors, who otherwise cannot access it on their own.

1286 Oakland Terrace SW
Atlanta, GA
678-949-8530
Online: gilliamscommunitygarden.org

—Shelley Massey

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Scavenger Hunts and I Spy games are things we like to play with our kids, not with our local grocery store. If hunting for flour has you feeling frustrated, we found a great new source for pantry goods: your favorite restaurant (and indoor playground!). Local businesses are sharing their resources in an effort to take the guess work out of dinner (and, yes, you can order that pre-made, too). Here are our favorite pantry pick-ups along with other options beyond the grocery store (like farmers markets and CSAs). Read on for ways to support local businesses while getting your baking on—and leave hunting for “flower” for those scavenger walks!

photo: Markus Spiske via Unsplash

Curbside Pantries

Badlands
Support one of the area’s most beloved indoor playgrounds by purchasing your pandemic comforts at this pull-in pantry. To help keep the lights on (and pay dedicated employees), Rockville’s Badlands is offering contactless grocery pick ups; 50% of proceeds go to support Badlands staff. You can grab staples like butter, milk and cheese here along with kid-favorites like Goldfish, Pringles and Lay’s potato chips. Badlands also offers wine, beer and liquor to go. Don’t forget to pick up a prepackaged STEAM kit.

5200 Randolph Rd, Rockville, MD
Open: Thurs.-Sun., noon-6 p.m.
Online: https://badlandsplayspace.com/

The Neighborhood Restaurant Group
In healthier times, The Neighborhood Restaurant Group manages some of our favorite good eats, like Birch and Barley and Hazel in DC and Columbia Firehouse and Vermillion in Old Town Alexandria. During these uncertain times, the Group is operating Neighborhood Provisions with three pick up locations (Alexandria, Arlington and DC).  Order yeast, flour, toilet paper and locally-made, handcrafted hand sanitizer with your favorite apps and mains. Bonus: they also deliver!

Bluejacket, 300 Tingey Street, SE DC 20003
202-524-4862

Rustico Alexandria, 827 Slaters Lane, Alexandria VA 22314
703-224-5051

Rustico Arlington, 4075 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22203
571-384-1820

Online: https://www.nrgprovisions.com/

Sweet Water Tavern
Craving those sweet and savory Ozzie Rolls? You can get them to go (with a side of honey butter) along with growlers, grocery essentials (including TP and paper towel), kids meals for kids 12 & under and your favorite Sweetwater staples, like firecracker shrimp. All American Restaurant Group locations are offering carry-out, but only Sweetwater Tavern in Sterling is operating a Tavern & Grocery (aka groceries to-go).

45980 Waterview Plaza, Sterling, VA 20166
571-434-6500
Open: 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
Online: https://sweetwatertavern.pub/swtsterling

Founding Farmers
You can order your favorite menu options at all of Found Farmers restaurants, but in Tysons and Reston Station you can pick up groceries at Market & Grocery. Order family portioned meals, bottled craft cocktails, groceries like eggs, cheese, bottled craft sauces and more. Don’t forget pantry staples like Mrs. Meyers cleaning products, dish detergent, toilet paper and microfiber towels.

Founding Farmers Reston Station, 1904 Reston Metro Plaza, Reston, VA 20190
(703) 988-7333
Open: Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Online: foundingfarmersrestonstationmarketgrocery.com

Founding Farmers Tysons, 1800 Tysons Blvd, Tysons, VA 22102
(703) 442-8783
Open: Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Online: foundingfarmersmarket.com/order-online

 

photo: Anne Preble via Unsplash 

Farmer Markets

Old Town Farmer’s Market
Old Town Farmer’s Market is the oldest continuous market in the good ol’ U S of A used by the first President himself. It’s still open during the pandemic, but you do need to pre order your goods.  

King St., Alexandria, VA
Open: Saturday, 7 a.m.-12 p.m.
Online: alexandriava.gov

Bethesda Central Farm Market
Bethesda Central Farm Market is one of the largest markets in the area with over 100 vendors and is still operating as a traditional, walk-up. Your children will pine for pastries at Patisseries Poupon and wish for waffles at Les Caprices de Joelle, while grownups will appreciate lobster rolls and Zeke’s coffee. Parking is free.

7600 Arlington Rd., Bethesda, MD
Open: Sunday, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Online: bethesda.centralfarmmarkets.com

City of Falls Church Farmers’ Market
Quite possibly the best market in the area—the American Farmland Trust puts it in its top five medium-sized markets in the country—this market now offers a to-go format. Featuring over 50 vendors, be sure to check out Kate’s Crepes and Pops ‘n Chill, an artisanal handmade popsicle stand with fruity flavors like roasted peaches and cantaloupe.

300 Park Ave., Falls Church, VA
Open: Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon
Online: fallschurchva.gov

photo: Suzie’s Farm via Flickr

CSA Memberships

Farm to Family
This veteran-owned, Richmond based CSA offers fruit, meat, eggs, soy products, pasta, bread, and pantry items delivered straight to your door. Our favorite add-on: locally sourced, ready to heat meals

Online: thefarmbus.csaware.com

From the Farmer 
This CSA offers curated boxes from MD and VA farms delivered right to doorsteps in the greater DMV area. It’s a farmer’s market that comes to you! Choose from: six different plans offering fruits and vegetables, with optional add-ons like bread and pantry items. You can customize boxes or skip one entirely.

Online: fromthefarmerdc.com

Lancaster Fresh Farm Cooperative
This Lancaster-based CSA has pick up locations throughout the DMV, including Shaw, Petworth, Capitol Hill, Brookland, Arlington, Silver Spring, Herndon and more. Choose from: vegetable boxes in three different sizes, with option to add fruit, cheese, eggs, meats, fresh flowers, or herbal medicine. 

Online: lancasterfarmfresh.com

Groundworks Farm
This Pittsville, MD CSA is making pick ups safe by asking members to stand over 12 feet a part, offering hand sanitizer after pick up and making sure all hand offs include masked and gloved employees. Choose from: produce, egg, meat, chicken, and cheese for pick up  in Arlington, Alexandria and Annapolis. 

Online: groundworksfarm.com

Little Farm Stand (Virginia)
Delivered fresh to your home, this CSA offers organic, pesticide-free produce from VA farm. Choose from: fruits and vegetables, with the option to add on eggs, grass-fed beef, preserves, pies, honey, and maple syrup. Each box can be customized!

Online: littlefarmstand.com

 

—Meghan Yudes Meyers, Pat Tanumihardja, HiIary Riedemann and Emily Coleman Dibella

featured photo: Jill Wellington via Pixabay

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You already know about our favorite pumpkin patches. Now it’s time to discover another fall favorite: super-cool corn mazes for the whole family! Get ready to lose yourself in the stalks at these nearby destinations. Read on for all the details on the best corn mazes in and near LA.

Tapia Bros. Farm

Aerial B. via Yelp

If it's a challenge you're looking for, Tapia Brothers Pumpkin Patch offers a huge corn maze (it's housed in its own lot across from the pumpkin patch and farm stand), complete with a map and trivia questions. In addition to the corn maze, little ones can enjoy a play area, bounce houses, a wagon ride, fresh-roasted corn and, of course, plenty fresh pumpkins to bring home. The corn maze and other fall festivities kick off Sept. 28 and go until Oct. 31. There are also weekend-only horse rides, starting Oct. 5. 

5251 Hayvenhurst Ave.
Encino
818-905-6155
Online: facebook.com/Tapia-Bros-Farm-126868084034172

Underwood Family Farms

Shannan Rouss

Get ready for an adventure as you enter the corn maze under the rainbow at this Moorpark farm. The well-manicured maze is just the right amount of challenging for kids. Expect to spend  about 20-25 minutes making your way through the stalks of corn—and don't fall for signs along the path intended to trick the family. At the end, there's a hay pyramid for corn conquerors to climb. Besides the maze, Underwood's Fall Festival is full of fun activities including a pumpkin patch, food vendors and play areas. The weekends welcome extra activities: ring the family for lives bands and a tractor drawn wagon ride. Also check out their website for special events including an Antique Tractor Day and Western weekend. 

3370 Sunset Valley Rd.
Moorpark
805-529-3690
Online: underwoodfamilyfarms.com

Forneris Farms

Forneris Farms

Forneris Farms in the San Fernando Valley prides itself on being the "original" corn maze of Southern California. These folks take their corn maze seriously with four acres of corn stalks that tower of your head and encourage everyone to "get lost on the farm." This year's maze has a "Country Farm" theme and if your family is feeling energetic and witty you can also try to solve the 12 riddles along the way; they call them the CORNundrums at Forneris Farms. If your witty sidekicks solve all 12 they can enter their riddle card for a chance to win a grand prize. Besides the corn maze, there's also a mini hay maze for little ones to wind their way through. 

15200 Rinaldi St.
Mission Hills
818-730-7709
Online: fornerisfarms.com

Cal Poly Pomona's Pumpkin Festival

Maybe you didn't know it, but Cal Poly Pomona boasts one of the largest pumpkin patches in Southern California as part of its agricultural program. There are over 70,000 pumpkins in this patch and every one—no matter the size—is just $5! On October 5 and 6 the pumpkin patch will host its annual Pumpkin Festival, which includes a must-visit corn maze with corn stalks over 12 feet high. Once your family makes it out, everyone will receive a button naming them a "maze magician." The festival also includes a petting farm, horse rides and lots of fun, interactive play that revolves around the notion of celebrating California agriculture. 

4102 S. University Dr.
Pomona
909-869-2780
Online: cpp.edu/~pumpkinfestival

Tanaka Farms

Lei S. via Yelp

The farm's fall pumpkin patch is a Hello Kitty fan's paradise. The adorable cat is event there to greet you at the corn maze, which is open through October 31 and is included with admission to the pumpkin patch. Little farmers can roam free, get a bit lost (with your supervision) and then make their way out in the end. Afterwards, reward them with a trip to the petting zoo. In addition to the corn maze, Tanaka Farms hosts a Harvest Festival every weekend where the family can enjoy pumpkins cannons, ATV rides and voting in the scarecrow contest. The Tanaka Farm Pumpkin Patch and Harvest Festival runs through October 31.

5380 3/4 University Dr.
Irvine
949-653-2100
Online: tanakafarms.com

Big Horse Corn Maze

SoCal Sparky via Yelp

If you're looking to go big, Head to the Big Horse Feed and Mercantile down in Temecula and get lost in an 11-acre maze—the largest in Southern California. The corn maze and pumpkin patch are open every day of the week and the Harvest Festival is full of family activities every weekend. Besides the massive corn labyrinth, your fall-crazed adventurers can enjoy a hay ride, face painting, a corn cannon and more. Just remember that Temecula can be hot all through October, so bring a hat and sunscreen—those corn stalks don't offer much shade. 

33320 Temecula Pkwy.
Temecula
951-389-4621
Online: bighorsecornmaze.com

—LeTania Smith & Shannan Rouss

featured photo: Alanbatt via Pixabay

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You can’t control the shifting seasons but if the thought of missing your weekly farmers’ market shopping trip sends you into the doldrums, we have a solution for you. Try a local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) membership!

Photo: Lancaster Fresh Farm

How it works
In the CSA model, community members pay a local farm or farm co-op for a share at the start of the growing season. This payment guarantees the shareholder a portion of the season’s bounty through weekly or bi-weekly produce shares. Members can also buy into other products such as grass-fed beef, free range poultry, cheese, dairy, and even flowers.  

It’s a win-win situation
Members receive fresh, local–often organic–produce at reasonable prices (delivered to a chosen location), while local area farms produce better quality food securely with upfront financial support.
Here in the D.C. area, we are lucky to have an abundance of CSA options, many offering flexible payment plans, pantry items, prepared foods, and delivery options (if your school-year is just too crazy to squeeze in pick-ups). 

Sign me up!
Choosing the CSA that is right for you can be daunting. For an idea of what’s out there, check out these six unique fall CSA’s. Fall is a wonderful season to try CSA out. The season is short and offers the best of both worlds—a mix of summer produce and cooler-weather items. For even more options, visit Local Harvest to search by area and view CSA details and pick up locations with maps.

Farm to Family (Richmond, Va)
Choose from: fruit, meat, eggs, soy products, pasta, bread, and pantry items
Season: year-round, divided into spring/summer and fall/winter shares
Pick-up: various locations in D.C. and Richmond, Va.
What’s unique: This 501©3 nonprofit is a CSA, indoor market, and education center all rolled into one.
Online: thefarmbus.csaware.com

From the Farmer (Washington, D.C.)
Choose from: six different plans offering fruits and vegetables, with optional add-ons like bread and pantry items
Season: year-round
Pick-up: home delivery to all of D.C. and much of Maryland and Virginia
What’s unique: You can remove or add items from your CSA box via their website.
Online: fromthefarmerdc.com

Lancaster Fresh Farm Cooperative (Lancaster, Pa)
Choose from: vegetable boxes in three different sizes, with option to add fruit, cheese, eggs, meats, fresh flowers, or herbal medicine
Season: year-round, divided into spring, summer, fall, and winter shares
Pick-up: various locations in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
What’s unique: Over 100 family farmers own and invest in the co-op, guaranteeing it’s efficiently run and provides a wide variety of products.
Online: lancasterfarmfresh.com

Groundworks Farm (Pittsville, Md)
Choose from: produce, egg, meat, chicken, and cheese shares in two sizes
Season: winter/spring, summer/fall
Pick-up: various locations in Virginia and Maryland
What’s unique: Offers whole farm shares, a combination of all shares (above).
Online: groundworksfarm.com

Little Farm Stand (Virginia)
Choose from: fruits and vegetables, with the option to add on eggs, grass-fed beef, preserves, pies, honey, and maple syrup
Season: Spring, summer and fall
Pick-up: Home or office delivery to Washington, D.C. and Rosslyn, Va
What’s unique: Very flexible—you pick exactly what items to include in your weekly box.
Online: littlefarmstand.com

Think ahead: Great Country Farms (Bluemont, Va)
This CSA
offers a farm share only from April to October but this is a fantastic option for families. Every membership includes fruit in each share, free farm visits, free weekly U-pick options and free or discounted admission to all the farm festivals and events. For busy families, the various pick-up and delivery options–public or private community sites, or delivered to your door–are a perk.
Online: greatcountryfarms.com

Does your family have a favorite CSA? Tell us about it in the comments below. 

-Pat Tanumihardja