Berry Bliss: Raspberry Picking at Lyman Orchards

Our family’s quest for fresh raspberries led us to Lyman Orchards in Middlebury, Connecticut, a sprawling farm nestled among picturesque hills. We kicked off our morning adventure with a pit stop at Stew Leonard’s, grabbing some hearty breakfast bagels to fuel our journey ahead. With the car packed and spirits high, we set off, eagerly anticipating a day of berry picking and farm delights.

A Bountiful Harvest

Upon arriving at Lyman Orchards, we were greeted by rows upon rows of raspberry bushes stretching across the mountainside. The sight of plump, crimson berries hanging from the vines filled us with excitement. Armed with pint boxes, the kids darted between the rows, carefully selecting the ripest raspberries. It wasn’t long before laughter filled the air as they proudly displayed their finds and sneakily popped a few berries into their mouths—after all, who could resist the temptation of freshly picked raspberries?

Lunch and Sweet Treats at the Apple Barrel

After filling our pint boxes (and our stomachs) with raspberries, we made our way to the Apple Barrel, a charming spot where we indulged in a delicious lunch and treated ourselves to some irresistible ice cream. The kids were delighted with their choices, and we savored the moment, relishing the flavors and the relaxed atmosphere of the orchard.

Bringing Home the Orchard’s Best

Before bidding farewell to Lyman Orchards, we couldn’t resist stocking up on some souvenirs of our day. Bottles of crisp apple cider and boxes of apple cider donuts found their way into our bags, ensuring we’d have a taste of the orchard’s goodness to enjoy at home. As we drove back, our minds were abuzz with ideas for the raspberries—pies, tarts, jams, and more danced through our heads.

Savoring Sweet Memories

In the end, our plans for elaborate desserts gave way to simpler pleasures. With such sweet and flavorful raspberries in hand, we found ourselves content to enjoy them as nature intended—fresh, juicy, and bursting with summer goodness. From snacking straight out of the pint boxes to sprinkling them over ice cream, every berry brought a taste of our day at Lyman Orchards back to life.

Why You Should Go Raspberry Picking at Lyman Orchards

If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing that combines fresh air, delicious food, and the joy of picking your own fruit, Lyman Orchards is the place to be. Whether you’re a seasoned picker or new to the experience, the beauty of the orchards and the satisfaction of harvesting your own raspberries make it a memorable adventure for all ages. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a meal at the Apple Barrel and bring home goodies like apple cider and donuts adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.

Plan Your Visit

Before you head out, check Lyman Orchards’ website for picking availability and seasonal hours. Remember to dress comfortably and be prepared for a bit of outdoor activity. And most importantly, bring your appetite for fresh raspberries and all the delightful treats Lyman Orchards has to offer. Whether you spend a few hours or a whole day, your visit to Lyman Orchards will leave you with cherished memories and perhaps a few raspberries for the road.