Dutchess County’s farmland and agricultural industry are vital to the region’s culture and economy. Each year, locals and visitors alike celebrate the harvest at pick-your-own farms, where fresh produce becomes a shared experience. Our farms across the county aren’t just seasonal attractions; they’re powerful community connectors, bringing local small businesses together to extend the summer fun well into fall. The result is a steady influx of visitors and local business commerce, energizing the Dutchess County economy and celebrating the hard-working farmers who have been supporting our community for generations.
Read on to learn more about six standout farms where you can pick your own produce this season and experience the heart of Dutchess County firsthand!
Barton Orchards, Poughquag
Summer picking is just beginning at Barton Orchards! The farm is now open daily to pick-your-own apples through the fall. Serving as a working farm, Barton Orchards has been in the Barton family for over 40 years, and they began offering pick-your-own in the 90s. Over the years, they’ve adapted to the needs of their customers and helped to forge a tradition that so many members of the Dutchess County community hold dear. Their quality produce, weekend festivals, and on-site taproom draw visitors from all over the New York metro region, contributing to our vibrant, welcoming culture that thrives during this time of year. Dutchess County is proud to be home to so many generational farms like Barton Orchards! Check out their packed summer and fall schedule here.
Fishkill Farms, Hopewell Junction
Fishkill Farms is a Dutchess County staple, planting roots back in 1913. Now a 270-acre apple orchard and vegetable farm, it offers seasonal pick-your-own opportunities throughout the summer and fall months. Their dedicated farmers work diligently year-round to maintain an ideal and sustainable environment for several crops, allowing them to open their doors to the public so that they can engage directly with the agricultural industry signature to Dutchess County. Ecological farming takes center stage at Fishkill Farms, and they are one of the few farms to grow certified organic berries and apples for pick-your-own across the entire state. As the seasons progress, you can pick a wide variety of produce including several different kinds of berries, peaches, tomatoes, eggplants, apples, pumpkins, and more. Reservations are required, which you can book in advance here.
Foxtrot Farm and Flowers, Stanfordville
At Foxtrot Farm and Flowers, Dutchess County is in bloom nearly year-round. A local “Mom & Pup” business, founder Kate and her furry friend Pepper grow and arrange beautiful blossoms for any occasion, from weddings, to anniversaries, or just because. During their peak summer season, they invite the public to reserve a morning to pick-your-own flowers and raspberries which are grown with care and careful attention to regenerative practices. Often partnering with local artisans, artists, restaurants, and more, Foxtrot Farm and Flowers serves as a beautiful intersection of Dutchess County’s rich cultural, agricultural, and creative communities that make for a diverse and bustling business ecosystem. Dates are limited, so be sure to schedule your pick-your-own visit before the summer ends!
Greig Farm, Red Hook
For the Greig Family, their farm is an agricultural park, and pick-your-own season is the playground. Pick-your-own has been a core part of Greig Farm for nearly 75 years, and with an extensive list of produce available to harvest on your own according to season, no two months at the farm look the same. While asparagus, strawberry, and snap pea seasons have passed, blueberries are at their peak, and fall will welcome fan-favorites like apples and pumpkins. Dutchess County’s farms are a pillar that sustains the wider community in ways beyond the food system, and Greig Farm is no different. Converting their barn to a home for local artisan businesses has established the farm as a hub for Dutchess County excellence in more ways than one. In addition to pick-your-own, visitors can browse, shop, and even take classes from their small business partners, highlighting the synergy Dutchess County’s farms offer to other local businesses and visitors alike. To visit and pick your own at Greig Farm this summer, check out their website here.
Hudson Valley Cold Pressed Oils, Pleasant Valley
Hudson Valley Cold Pressed Oils has transformed the beloved pick-your-own tradition into an evening with a heartwarming mission. A portion of the proceeds made during their pick-your-own evenings are donated to Sparrows Nest Organization, which cooks and delivers homemade meals to families facing a cancer diagnosis in Dutchess, Putnam, and parts of Orange, Ulster, and Northern Westchester counties. Nonprofit partnerships with other local businesses are a beautiful reflection of the Dutchess County community’s larger commitment to supporting others. Sunflowers abound in Hudson Valley Cold Pressed Oils’ fields, making an evening roaming the landscape and selecting your own bouquet a great way to spend time with friends and family while supporting one of the small businesses that make Dutchess County great. Be sure to read up on a few tips and tricks before visiting the Hudson Valley Cold Pressed Oils farm!
Rose Hill Farm, Red Hook
Steeped in history, Rose Hill Farm has evolved over the centuries from a modest orchard in 1812 to a leader in the pick-your-own farm industry. Land responsibility is of utmost importance, and Rose Hill Farm aims to care for the entire ecosystem, ensuring the highest quality produce without the use of synthetic fertilizers. Each weekend is jam-packed with pop-up events in partnership with other small businesses in Dutchess County, frequently serving delicious food from local vendors and offering cider and wine tastings from other New York state makers. Often paired with live music from local artists and bands, Rose Hill Farm makes for the perfect afternoon relaxing with the wider community after a day spent among the orchard’s trees. Check out their ripening schedule to plan your day here.
Essential for sustaining the food system across the New York region, Dutchess County’s farms are industry leaders for a reason. From longstanding commitments to the highest standards of ecofriendly farming, to finding opportunities to elevate other small businesses, and sustaining a decades-long pick-your-own tradition, our farmers create lasting cultural and economic impacts far beyond the borders of Dutchess County.
Inspired by the incredible impact of these local businesses?
Whether you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, or community partner, we’d love to hear from you. Connect with our team at info@thinkdutchess.com to learn how we can support your business, collaborate on economic development initiatives, or help you grow right here in Dutchess County.
Photo courtesy of Destination Dutchess