Cherry U-Pick at Third Coast Fruit Co.

Imagine an ideal summer day outdoors: wandering among spreading trees, picking the ripest and juiciest berries. This is exactly the kind of authentic experience offered by Cherry U-Pick at Third Coast Fruit Co. — a cozy family farm located near Traverse City, USA.

This place is famous for its U-Pick format, which allows you to harvest fruit with your own hands right from the branches. The orchard is known for its dark sweet cherries as well as classic tart varieties. Depending on the season, you can also find strawberries and apples grown with love by local farmers.

The farm is situated in an incredibly beautiful location with panoramic views of the bay. This is not just agricultural land, but a true destination with a 5.0 rating, where the peaceful atmosphere and fresh lake air create the perfect conditions for a family holiday in nature.

To check current harvest availability and visiting rules, you can use the farm's official resources:

Please note that additional news about farm life is often posted on their Facebook page.

The main activity here is, of course, self-harvesting. Visitors are given buckets and head into the orchards to find the perfect berries. Sweet cherries usually ripen by early July, and from mid-month, it's time to pick sour (tart) cherries, which are perfect for those famous Michigan pies.

Beyond harvesting, you can simply enjoy the aesthetics of the place. Stroll through the breezy alleys while admiring the water views, or relax in the shade of the trees. For those who don't want to pick the fruit themselves, the farm often has pre-picked, carefully gathered produce available for purchase.

Younger guests and animal lovers will surely enjoy the chance to meet the local farm puppies, who add a special charm to the visit. And the scent of fresh popcorn, sometimes sold on-site, will be a pleasant addition to your "Up North" gastronomic adventure.

The most convenient way to reach the farm from downtown Traverse City is by car. The drive along Wilson Road takes only 10–15 minutes, with the distance from the city center being about 7–10 kilometers. The scenic route passes through the typical rural landscapes of the region.

Since the orchard is located in a rural area, public transport is infrequent. Tourists are recommended to use a personal or rental vehicle or call a taxi. On-site parking is provided for visitors.

At the height of the picking season, traffic approaching the farm can be busier, so it's worth planning your departure in advance. Once you arrive, simply follow the signs leading to the "U-Pick" area.

The region surrounding Traverse City has rich agricultural traditions. This corner of the USA is rightfully considered one of the "cherry capitals" of the world. Local farmers began actively developing these lands in the early 20th century, discovering that the combination of soil and microclimate was ideal for fickle fruit trees.

The proximity of Lake Michigan plays a vital role in the success of the cherry orchards. This massive body of water acts as a natural temperature regulator: in winter, it softens the frosts, and in spring, it holds back early blooming, protecting the buds from sudden freezes. Thanks to this, the harvest here is always of high quality and rich flavor.

Today, Cherry U-Pick at Third Coast Fruit Co. continues the legacy of many generations of growers, turning a simple fruit harvest into a cultural event. The tradition of growing cherries in these parts is so strong that it is celebrated annually with large-scale festivals that attract guests from all over the country.

For a complete visit, including leisurely berry picking and a stroll through the picturesque alleys, you should set aside about 2–3 hours. This is enough time to enjoy the garden's atmosphere, take beautiful photos overlooking the bay, and gather a full basket of fresh fruit.

During the peak season in mid-July, there may be more visitors than usual, so the check-in and payment process may take a little longer. If you plan to visit with a large family or group, it's better not to rush and spend a good half of the day here.

During the harvest season, the orchard usually welcomes guests daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is important to remember that the farm's operation depends directly on natural cycles: cherry picking is traditionally possible from early July to the first days of August, with peak ripeness most often occurring in mid-July.

Please note that the farm is currently closed for the 2025 season. The next opening is scheduled for June 2026. Before planning your trip, be sure to check the official website for exact season start dates and fruit availability.

The farm's surroundings offer many options for continuing your journey. After a walk through the orchards, you can head for a tasting at local wineries or explore the region's historic architecture.