Orchards Near Me
Berry Picking in Illinois: What You Need to Know
Illinois is home to a range of spots for berry picking, spread across the state's different growing regions. This page rounds up every berry picking location listed in Illinois so you can compare distance, ratings, and reviews before deciding where to go.
Midwest Berry Picking
The Midwest's berry season centers on strawberries and raspberries in June and July, with Michigan standing out as one of the country's leading blueberry producers thanks to the moderating influence of Lake Michigan on its western counties. Wisconsin contributes a dramatically different specialty in its cranberry marshes, which produce the majority of the nation's cranberry crop and put on a striking visual display during the fall flood-harvest. Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, and the Dakotas all support smaller-scale strawberry, raspberry, and blackberry farms, many of which share land with the region's well-known fall apple orchards.
Best Time for Berry Picking in Illinois
Strawberries through late May and June, with blueberries picking up as the strawberry season winds down through July.
Tips for Berry Picking in Illinois
Call ahead or check a location's website before visiting, since hours and availability for berry picking can change with the weather and time of year. Weekday visits are usually less crowded than weekends.