Summer time is my favorite. I love picking berries with my kids. Well, maybe the idea of picking berries with my kids. They usually get tired after picking three berries and I end up picking the rest of the tray while they run off into the field and I sweat off 800lbs in the 900 degree sun. Either way, one of our favorite places to pick berries is Autumn Hill Orchard. It is out in Groton, MA. They are not usually crowded, their berries are some of the best that we have tasted, and the people there are so friendly. They remember us from year to year, they are kind and super friendly. They have blueberries and raspberries, and new this year they have blackberries. They just started pick your own peaches and they have apricots and local honey for sale at their retail tent. In the fall they will have Concord grapes for sale. You will be able to pick your own apples in the fall and their views can’t be beat.

Autumn Hills Orchard

495 Chicopee Row, Groton, MA https://autumnhillsorchard.com/

And after picking, we always stop at Johnson’s Dairy Bar for a well deserved ice cream. My go to flavor is the peach raspberry.

Johnson’s Dairy Bar

164 Boston Road, Groton, MA https://www.johnsonsrestaurantanddairybar.com/

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A few weekends ago we went to Belkin Family Lookout Farm in Natick.  It is one of the oldest continuously working farms in the US and has over 60,000 fruit trees. The farm is open from 10am -5pm daily. Admission is $12 per person and kids under 2 are free. So what’s included in your admission? Train rides to and from the orchards, a farm themed play area, moon bounces, plenty of fun farm animals, caterpillar rides and a farm maze. Fruit bags are 1 peck and are $20 per bag. They have Pristine apples available for picking at the moment but check their website to see what they are currently picking.

They have a snack area up near the play area, but have a cool tap room that isn’t to be missed. (You don’t have to pay the admission if you are just going to the Taproom) They are open Thursday – Sunday year round. Stop in for a tasting flight of their craft cider or take a 4 pack to go.

The menu has a lighter fare, with things like charcuterie, soft pretzels, a hummus platter, flat breads and cider donuts. The charcuterie plate was really tasty – I would definitely go back again just for that.

The flatbreads come in flavors like buffalo chicken, BBQ pulled pork and margherita. They also have a gluten free option available. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food here. And bring the family with you, they have games for kids of all ages to help pass the time!

While you’re picking up your four pack or your growler, stay for a tour. They are on Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm and are complimentary!

Lookout Farm Tap Room

89 Pleasant Street SOUTH, South Natick, MA

www.lookoutfarm.com

www.lookoutfarmcider.com/lookout-taproom

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