I’m keen to try just about anything to experience local cultures and traditions when I’m traveling or living somewhere – when in Rome, right? Recently, I got to try another tradition in my new home which is picking strawberries at a local farm. It’s not just a common spring activity here in North Carolina, but in a lot of places in America and it’s an adventure that’s as delicious as it is fun. Here’s my guide on 3 awesome local places to go strawberry picking near Fayetteville. I’ve also linked their Facebook pages and I recommend following them for updates on the season.
3 Awesome Places To Go Strawberry Picking Near Fayetteville
FAQ for strawberry picking
When is the season?
About the end of April to early June.
When is the best time to go strawberry picking?
I think May is the best time to guarantee some awesome strawberries!
How much does it cost?
It ranges at the different farms but about $12-14 for a bucket.
It’s best to bring cash as not all locations accept card.
How long does it take?
However long it takes you to fill a bucket really. But, I’d allow about 20-30 minutes if you’re not rushing too much.
What should you wear?
There’s no specific dress code or anything, but keep in mind you’ll be walking through dirt (it’s a farm, duh) so I wouldn’t wear your favorite white shoes.
You’ll be out in the elements too so it’s a good idea to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Douglas Farms
Location: Sanford
Drive: About 40 minutes from downtown Fayetteville
This one is going at the top of the list because it was my favorite. The strawberries here were huge and the freshest I’ve ever tried!
It’s the longest drive out of the three options on the list, but in my opinion it was well worth the drive.
There is a small, grassed parking area off the side of the road then you just go to the stand to get your bucket for picking the strawberries. If you prefer to avoid manual labor, you can also buy pre-picked buckets there.
It’s cash only so make sure you visit an ATM before you go.
For more information and updates check out their Facebook page.
Gillis Hill Road Produce
Location: Fayetteville
Drive: About 25 minutes from downtown Fayetteville
Another great option is the awesome Gillis Hill Road Produce.
What I love about this farm is that the strawberries are delicious, but it’s so much more than just strawberry picking. While you’re there you can also buy other produce, locally made goods (imagine jams, jellies, honey, and cheese to name a few), and even plants.
Save it for year round visits because you can visit in fall if you’re looking for a pumpkin patch and Christmas to get a tree.
Just a real local treat!
For more information and updates check out their Facebook page.
So easy to fill a bucket!
Bunce Brothers Farm
Location: Stedman
Drive: about 15 minutes from downtown Fayetteville
I didn’t get to try strawberries from this farm because it had already closed when I got there, but it was highly recommended so I want to leave it here as another option. Hopefully I’ll get to try it next year.
The only downside is that you might want to call ahead to check if they’re open before you go so you don’t drive out there and find it closed like I did.
Otherwise, looks like a pretty cool farm from what I saw and a lot of people raved about the strawberries.
For more information and updates check out their Facebook page.
Fort Bragg Bucket List
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It’s full of adventure ideas, events, and long weekend destinations that will make filling your weekends easy and stress free!
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