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Cherry Picking in Minnesota: What You Need to Know
Looking for cherry picking in Minnesota? Below is every location mapped across the state, filterable by city or ZIP code so you can find the one closest to you.
Great Lakes Cherry Country
The Great Lakes region produces more tart cherries than any other part of the world, with Michigan's Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas responsible for a remarkable seventy-five percent of the United States' tart cherry crop. The unique microclimate of the peninsulasâmoderated by Lake Michigan on both sidesâcreates frost protection in spring and extended growing conditions in fall that make them uniquely suited to cherry production. Wisconsin's Door Peninsula offers a similarly lake-moderated growing environment, producing excellent tart cherries in a Scandinavian-influenced farming culture that has made cherry picking a regional tradition. The pick-your-own operations in both Michigan and Wisconsin are professional, well-organized, and celebrate the cherry harvest with festivals and community events that make a trip during season feel like a genuine occasion.
Best Time for Cherry Picking in Minnesota
Mid-July through August for the cold-hardy sour cherry varieties developed for Minnesota's demanding climate, later than in any state further south.
Tips for Cherry Picking in Minnesota
Conditions for cherry picking in Minnesota can shift quickly with the weather, so it's worth checking a location's current status before making the drive. Bring cash, since smaller family-run spots aren't always set up to take cards.