Farms to visit for cherry picking season in New York

Rose Hill Farm is a bio-intensive, holistic orchard situated on a peaceful and picturesque slice of the Hudson River Valley. The fruit you get to pick has been responsibly grown, and this organic farm boasts fruits like cherries, blueberries, peaches, plums, apricots, nectarines and apples. Come to these 100 acres of sprawling farmland and get ready for a bountiful harvest!

Best for: The whole family. There's a winery taproom for the grownups, plenty of picnic tables and you can bring your own snacks.

It doesn't get much better than a cherry picking experience with a view! Plus, Och's is so much more than PYO! You'll also find homemade ice cream, and some furry friends at the petting zoo. Cherries are usually around through mid-July and can be picked daily. Bring a picnic to refuel during your cherry-picking adventure while savoring the expansive views from the Och’s Orchard gazebo.

Best for: A full day outing. The farm includes a petting zoo and farm market.

Every year, Wickham’s Fruit Farm has delicious cherries available for picking in July! Choose the roundest and juiciest fruit with your crew at this PYO destination in Long Island. Not only is the fruit delicious, but the farm has a rich history too. Wickam’s fruit is grown on some of the oldest continually cultivated land in the country—much of the farm dates back to 1661. With beautiful views of sparkling Peconic Bay, Wickham’s is the perfect place to relax and appreciate nature’s beauty...with a handful of cherries of course!

Best for: Farm fans. You can do tours and shop farm-made products including cheeses, pies, preserves and donuts.

Heading to Prospect Hill Orchards has been a 200-year tradition for New Yorkers. If you're in the mood for tart cherries (which are typically available by late-June) or want to spice things up with apples, peaches or pears, this family-owned operation has you covered. PYO options are available onsite but if you can't make it to Milton, head to one of the NYC farmer's markets to get your fruity fix from Prospect Hill; it operates at Tribeca Washington Market Park, Tucker Square and Abingdon Square year-round.

Best for: Advance planners. This season, you’ll be able to book ahead online.

Since 1892, Lawrence Farm Orchard has offered dozens of farm-fresh items to pick throughout the year, from cherries and raspberries to eggplants and greens. Fill a container with fruit and then head to the Little Play Village, visit the show chickens and goats or cool off with some local ice cream. 

Best for: Frequent pickers. The farm sells a season pass.