Cherry picking in Hamilton and Niagara is one of the sweetest ways to spend a summer day with your family. The season is short—but totally worth planning for.
Cherry picking in Ontario typically runs from late June to mid-July, depending on weather and the type of cherries available. Sweet cherries arrive first, followed by sour cherries shortly after.
If you’re looking for the best pick-your-own cherry farms near Hamilton and Niagara, here are some great spots to check out. Looking for more PYO Farms? We know the best apple orchards and flower farms, too!
Cherry Picking in Niagara
Sun Valley Farms in Winona
Address: 1186 Highway 8, Winona, ON
Best For: Easy picking, younger kids, close to GTA
Why Families Love It
Sun Valley Farms is one of the closest cherry-picking farms to the GTA, with easy-to-reach trees and a family-friendly layout.
Good to Know
- Family-run farm since 1955
- Typically open daily during season (hours vary)
- Short season—usually early July
Parent Tip
This is one of the easiest orchards for younger kids thanks to low trees.
20 Valley Harvest Farms (Jordan Station)
Address: 4235 Fifteenth St, Jordan Station, ON
Best For: Variety of cherries, farm market
Why Families Love It
20 Valley Harvest Farms offers both sweet and sour cherries plus a great on-site market with local products.
Good to Know
- Sweet cherries typically ready in July
- Sour cherry season lasts 3–5 weeks
- Eco-conscious farming practices
Parent Tip
Great stop if you want to turn your visit into a mini farm outing with snacks and local goodies.
Cherry Avenue Farms (Vineland)
Address: 4303 Cherry Ave, Vineland, ON
Best For: Classic orchard experience
Why Families Love It
Cherry Avenue Farms is one of the most established cherry farms in Ontario, with a long history and well-organized picking experience.
Good to Know
- Tractor rides to the orchard available
- Admission typically includes a picking basket
- Accessible and picnic-friendly
Parent Tip
Opens for 2026 in July. Arrive early—this is one of the most popular spots in the region.
Puddicombe Estate Farms (Winona)
Address: 1468 Highway 8, Winona, ON
Best For: Full day outing, closest options for cherry picking in Hamilton area
Why Families Love It
Puddicombe Estate Farms is more than just cherry picking—it’s a full experience with a farm animals, a train ride, bakery, café, and seasonal events.
Good to Know
- Sweet cherries in July, sour later
- On-site café and store
- Events and wagon rides
Parent Tip
Plan extra time—kids won’t want to leave.
Hildreth Farms (Beamsville)
Address: 5529 Greenlane, Beamsville, ON
Best For: Farm market + baked goods
Why Families Love It
Hildreth Farms combines cherry picking with a great farm market full of homemade treats.
Good to Know
- Cherry season late June into July
- Known for pies, jams, and sauces
- Smaller farm feel
Parent Tip
Bring extra cash—you’ll want to grab baked goods.
Parkway Orchards (Niagara-on-the-Lake)
Address: 15000 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Best For: Scenic views, variety of fruit
Why Families Love It
Parkway Orchards offers a beautiful setting along the Niagara Parkway and a variety of seasonal fruit.
Good to Know
- Cherry picking often starts mid-June
- Weather-dependent availability
- Farm market on-site
Parent Tip
Pair this with a Niagara day trip—it’s a great scenic stop.
Mathias Farms (Ridgeville)
Address: 1909 Effingham St, Ridgeville, ON
Website: check Facebook for updates
Best For: Smaller, quieter farm
Why Families Love It
Mathias Farms is a third-generation family farm with a more relaxed, less crowded feel.
Good to Know
- Short picking window
- Also offers other seasonal fruit
- Updates posted online
Parent Tip
Call or check before you go—availability changes quickly.
Cherry Picking in Niagara and Hamilton Area
Cherry picking in Ontario’s Niagara Region is a popular summer activity, offering families a chance to enjoy the outdoors and pick fresh, delicious cherries. Here are some key details and tips for a successful cherry picking trip:
When to Go Cherry Picking
- Season: Cherry picking season in Hamilton and Niagara Region typically runs from late June to early July. The exact timing can vary depending on the weather and growing conditions, so it’s always a good idea to check with local farms for the most accurate dates.
Types of Cherries
- Sweet Cherries: These are the most common type found in the Niagara Region. They are usually available from late June to early July.
- Sour (Tart) Cherries: These are typically available a bit later than sweet cherries, often in early to mid-July. Sour cherries are great for baking and preserves.
What to Bring
- Containers: Many farms provide containers for picking, but it’s a good idea to bring your own sturdy containers or baskets, especially if you plan to pick a lot.
- Sun Protection: The sun can be strong, so bring hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and standing.
- Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and snacks to keep everyone energized.
- Bug Spray: Depending on the time of day and location, bugs can be an issue, so it’s wise to have some bug spray on hand.
- Cash: Some farms may not accept credit or debit cards, so bring cash just in case.
Tips for Cherry Picking
- Check Farm Policies: Each farm may have different rules and hours of operation, so check their websites or call ahead.
- Arrive Early: The best cherries are often picked early in the day, so try to arrive early to get the best selection.
- Pick Carefully: Handle cherries gently to avoid bruising them. Twist the cherries off the stems to avoid damaging the trees.
- Sample Before Picking: Some farms allow you to taste a cherry or two before you start picking. This helps ensure you’re happy with the flavor and quality.
- Storage: Cherries are best picked fresh and eaten soon after, but if you need to store them, keep them in a cool place and wash them just before eating.
Read More: Find more Pick-Your-Own farms with the most delicious local Ontario produce here.
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