By Natalie Thursday, June 26, 2025

Looking for a juicy, family-friendly summer activity that’s as sweet as it is satisfying? Welcome to cherry picking in Ontario—a fun and fruitful tradition that brings together sunshine, nature, and fresh-off-the-branch goodness. Whether you’re craving sweet cherries for snacking or sour varieties for baking, Ontario’s scenic cherry orchards are ripe for exploring. This guide covers when to go, the best cherry-picking farms, and insider tips to make the most of your trip!

When Is Cherry Picking Season in Ontario?

Cherry picking season in Ontario is short—but oh, so sweet! Typically, the season begins in late June and runs through mid-to-late July, depending on weather conditions and the type of cherries being grown.

• Sweet Cherries (like Bing or Rainier) ripen first, usually in late June to early July.
• Sour Cherries (perfect for pies and preserves) tend to follow, peaking in mid-July.

To avoid disappointment, always check the orchard’s website or social media pages before your visit—farms post regular crop updates and availability since cherry season can change quickly due to rain or high demand.

Pro tip: Go early in the day when the sun is less intense and the cherries are cool and crisp from the night air.

Best Cherry Orchards for Family Visits

There’s something magical about wandering through an orchard with a basket in hand and the sun on your back. These top-rated cherry orchards in Ontario offer pick-your-own experiences that are perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to spend a delicious day outdoors.

Niagara Region

Cherry Avenue Farms – Niagara-on-the-Lake

With over 220 years of cherry-growing tradition, Cherry Avenue Farms is one of the most established pick-your-own destinations in Ontario. Visitors are required to pay an entrance fee, which includes a 1.5-litre basket for cherry picking. Each guest aged 4 and up must pay the admission cost, which is set at approximately $12 for the 2025 season.

Larger basket options will be available as well, with updated pricing to be announced based on available supply. The farm accepts both cash and debit, and all sales are final—no refunds are offered.

To enhance the experience, the farm provides free pick-your-own baskets, a tractor-train for easy orchard access, and spacious, picnic-friendly grounds. The farm is also wheelchair accessible.

Tip: Admission fees are credited toward your cherry basket. Be sure to check weather conditions before visiting, as hours are weather-dependent.

• Season:Late June to mid-July
• Location:Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Bonus:Historic orchard, tractor transport, free baskets, and accessible facilities

Puddicombe Estate Farms & Winery – Winona

This charming fruit farm and winery near Hamilton is more than just a cherry orchard—it’s a full countryside experience. Set against a backdrop of barns with rolling countryside views, this farm offers a refreshing escape from city life.

During cherry season, sweet cherries are ready for picking in July, with sour varieties arriving in August. Pricing is budget-friendly, with 4-quart baskets typically costing $15 and 6-quart options around $20. The orchard also hosts seasonal events and guided tours for visitors looking to turn their visit into a full-day outing.

If cherry picking isn’t enough, you can explore the farm’s rustic country store, enjoy freshly baked goods, or stop by the modern café—known for its standout pear cider.

• Season:July (sweet cherries), August (sour cherries)
• Location:Winona, Niagara Region
• Bonus:On-site café and bakery, family-friendly animals, country store, special events and tours

Sun Valley Farms – Beamsville

With a cherry-growing legacy dating back to 1955, Sun Valley Farms is a trusted destination for pick-your-own fruit in the heart of Niagara’s orchard country. Home to over 3,000 cherry trees, specializing in sweet cherries, this farm offers easy-to-reach fruit and a well-maintained layout that’s ideal for families and casual pickers.

Pricing is straightforward, with three basket sizes available: 3 litres for $30, 4 litres for $40, and a larger 6-quart option for $50. The farm is also dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry companion along for the outing.

• Season:Late June through early July
• Location:Beamsville, Niagara Region
• Bonus: Beautiful setting, easy-to-pick trees, pet-friendly environment, high-quality fruit & closest cherry orchard to the GTA

Weiland’s Cherry Farm – Niagara-on-the-Lake

Home to over 3,000 cherry trees, Weiland’s Cherry Farm is a local favourite known for its sweet cherry varieties, including Bing, Cavalier, and Heidelfingen. The orchard offers flexible pricing with multiple basket sizes: 3 litres for $15, 4 litres for $20, and a larger 5.7-litre option for $30. Additional cherries over the basket limit are priced at $4 per litre.

There is a $7 admission fee for visitors aged 12 and up. To help guests access cherries high in the trees, the farm provides ladders and basket harnesses throughout the orchard. No reservations are required, making this a convenient and well-equipped stop during cherry season.

• Season:Typically late June to early July
• Location:Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Bonus:Flexible basket sizes, high-reach tools available, and no advance booking needed

Mathias Farms – Pelham

If you’re looking for pesticide-free cherry picking and a bonus haul of gourmet preserves, Mathias Farms is a top choice. This family-run operation offers both sweet and sour cherries—sweet varieties typically ripen in late June, while sour cherries peak in July.

Pricing for pick-your-own cherries starts around $20 for a 3-litre basket, but it’s best to call ahead for up-to-date rates. Beyond the orchard, their on-site fruit stand is well-stocked with house-made jams, jellies, and sauces, available for $9.50 per 250-ml jar.

Tip: Don’t leave without trying the farm’s signature preserves—they’re a local favourite for good reason.

• Season:Late June (sweet) to mid-July (sour)
• Location:Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Bonus:Pesticide-free fruit, house-made preserves, and a charming country atmosphere

20 Valley Harvest Farms – Lincoln

With over 1,000 cherry trees and a strong focus on eco-conscious farming, 20 Valley Harvest Farms is a must-visit for anyone serious about cherry picking. The on-site market is stocked with fresh, farm-to-table goods, and the orchard provides ample space to roam and pick at your own pace.

Admission to the orchard is $8, and cherry pricing is based on quantity: 3 litres for $27.75, 4 litres for $37.75, and a generous 7-litre basket for $48. Prefer not to pick? Pre-picked sour cherries are also available daily—though they come at a premium.

Smart tip: Subscribe to the farm’s newsletter in advance and enjoy a 10% discount on all pick-your-own cherry purchases.

• Season:Late June to early July
• Location:Lincoln (near Beamsville)
• Bonus:Sustainable practices, fresh market goods, and newsletter discounts

Southwestern ON – Forest (Lambton Shores)

A lesser-known gem near Lake Huron with a history stretching back over 200 years, Bridgman’s Farm is more than just an orchard—it’s a cherished seasonal destination. This historic farm offers both sweet and sour cherries for pick-your-own visitors, available in 3-litre and 7-litre baskets.

While prices aren’t posted publicly, you can contact the farm directly via social media or phone for current rates. To help with hard-to-reach fruit, ladders are available on request, and there’s often plenty of fruit within reach or on the ground for easy gathering.

Tip: No reservations are accepted, and the farm limits the number of pickers on-site to ensure a quality experience. Arrive early to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.

• Season:Late June through early July
• Location:Forest, Lambton Shores
• Bonus:Historic charm, both sweet and sour cherry options, and a well-managed visitor flow. Combine your visit with a trip to Grand Bend or Ipperwash Beach

Fieldtree Farm – Rodney

Located just an hour from Toronto, Fieldtree Farms offers a peaceful escape and a straightforward cherry-picking experience. This family-owned orchard is known for its quality cherries and relaxed setting—perfect for families and couples looking for a low-key outing.

Pricing is simple and affordable: $15 for a 3-litre basket or $30 for a larger 7-litre option. There’s no admission fee, making this one of the more budget-friendly cherry-picking spots around.

Tip: Always call ahead before visiting. Fieldtree Farms operates on a weather-dependent schedule and may adjust picking hours accordingly.

• Season:Early July
• Location:Rodney (Elgin County)
• Bonus:No admission fee, affordable pricing, and easygoing atmosphere

Bruce County / Lake Huron Shoreline

Smith Two Century Farm – Port Elgin

A fifth-generation family operation near the shores of Lake Huron, Smith Two Century Farm offers a relaxed, rural setting for cherry picking. Both sweet and sour cherries are available in season, with clear and affordable pricing: sweet cherries are $24 for 3 litres, $30 for 5 litres, and $40 for 7 litres; sour cherries are $20, $25, and $30 for those same basket sizes.

While the farm is a lovely place to spend part of your day, note that picnicking is not permitted on the premises.

• Season:Early to mid-July
• Location:Port Elgin
• Bonus:Offers both sweet and sour cherries with family-friendly pricing. Combine your visit with a trip to nearby beaches or downtown Port Elgin

Tips for Making the Most of Cherry Picking in Ontario

Make your day out in the orchard a total win with these handy tips for cherry picking in Ontario:

1. Dress the Part – Wear a hat, sunscreen, and breathable clothing. Cherries grow best in full sun, and the orchards can get hot fast. Closed-toe shoes are best for uneven ground.

1. Bring Your Own Containers – Some farms charge extra for containers, while others offer a small discount if you bring your own baskets or reusable bags. It’s also a great eco-friendly option!

1. Taste, Don’t Feast – While sampling a few cherries is usually allowed, remember that over-snacking is frowned upon. Always be respectful of farm rules and signage.

1. Stay Hydrated – Pick-your-own days can get long and sunny. Pack water bottles and snacks for the kids. Many orchards sell refreshments on-site too.

1. Get There Early – Arriving right when the farm opens not only helps you beat the heat, but also guarantees access to the ripest fruit before the crowds pick them over.

1. Make a Day of It – Many cherry orchards are near other fun spots—wineries, markets, hiking trails, or lakes. Build a whole itinerary and turn cherry picking into a mini getaway.

Cherry picking in Ontario is one of those classic summer experiences that blends outdoor adventure, local flavor, and sweet memories in one perfect package. Whether you’re out for a fun day with the kids or hunting for the best fruit for your next dessert, Ontario’s cherry orchards are ready to welcome you.

Natalie