Whether you’re looking for pick-your-own farms or local markets, opportunities to experience the area’s thriving strawberry scene are abundant. We’ve pulled a few ways you can get your strawberry fix in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Fun Fact! According to the Office of Agriculture, Montgomery County has the most acres planted in berries (blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries) of any county in Maryland.
Pick-Your-Own Farms
Strawberry picking season in Maryland usually begins in May and runs through June. Butler’s Orchard grows over 23 different varieties of fruits and vegetables each year, including strawberries. Butler’s also sells picked strawberries, baked goods, and other produce at their on-site Farm Market. Picking schedules and availability may vary; we recommend checking the farm’s website before your visit. Just a scenic 20 minute drive down the road is Lewis Orchard in Dickerson. While they grow five distinct varieties, they are legendary for their small, ruby-red berries, widely considered to be the sweetest strawberries in Maryland. It’s the perfect spot for those who prioritize big flavor in a smaller, traditional farm setting. We recommend checking their website or social media for the latest updates before your visit
Farmer’s Markets
With over 20 farmers’ markets located throughout Montgomery County, there is no shortage of opportunities to meet growers, connect with the community, and fill your market bags with locally grown strawberries. A few of our favorite year-round markets include the Downtown Silver Spring Farmers Market, Kensington Farmers Market, Main Street Farmers Market, Olney Farmers Market, and Takoma Park Farmers Market. In Takoma, grab fresh strawberries from Homestead Farm and pair them with a strawberry shortcake or tart from the Farm Market Bakery.
Local Bakeries
If you prefer to get your strawberry fix in the form of a freshly baked goodie, there are plenty of options to consider. In addition to offering pick-your-own strawberries, Butler’s Orchard also sells strawberries already in containers and baked goods from The Farm Market. Head to Tatte Bakery in Rockville or Bethesda for a Strawberry turnover. There is also a wide variety of strawberry-themed baked goods at Lancaster Dutch Market in Germantown, or try a scoop of Strawberry Buttermilk ice cream from Jeni’s Bethesda. Try the strawberry soft bread from Tous Les Jours in Germantown, it’s super soft and filled with strawberry buttercream.
Craft Cocktails
Head over to True Food Kitchen located along rio’s lakefront in Gaithersburg to enjoy a Strawberry Margarita. Or head over to World of Beer in Rockville or Bethesda for a refreshing Strawberry Caipiroska. If you’re looking for a way to get a brain freeze, be sure to stop along the Tastemakers Trail and visit Clear Skies Meadery for a strawberry slushie.
Ice Cream
Montgomery County is a sweet treat lover’s paradise. There are so many ice cream options, you can create your own tour of ice cream shops. For a seasonal favorite, head over Mimi’s Handmade Ice Cream in Rockville, for their legendary Strawberry Shortcake, featuring fresh fruit and crisp graham crackers that perfectly capture the taste of summer. Pick up a heaping, filled waffle cone of “Really Strawberry” from Sarah’s Handmade Ice Cream & Treats. Finally, venture to Mt. Airy for an ice cream experience like no other. Woodbourne Creamery at Rockhill Orchard lets you watch the cows getting milked using robotic machines.
