Strawberry Fields For Everyone

A Sweet Itinerary

As one of the most cultivated fruits in the United States, it’s clear that Americans are wild for strawberries. Luckily, Chesapeake, VA has no shortage of these gorgeous ruby red beauties. Whether you’re in search of tiny delicate berries or gargantuan juice-explosions, you’ll find dozens of options that are perfect to eat right off the vine or to take home and use for jams, pies, and, of course, shortcakes.

Day One 

For lovers of the red berry, Mount Pleasant Farms is a great place to start your strawberry-picking adventure. Grab a basket and head into the fields to find some of the most succulent berries around. Once you’ve filled your quarts, visit the goats at the petting zoo and feed the chickens. After that, check out the country store, where locally made soy candles, honey, and soap are all available to browse and buy. While you’re there, purchase some of their delicious baked goods, like the consistently raved-about strawberry pie. 

Right down the road, you’ll find Bergey’s Breadbasket. Order the Spring Strawberry Salad made with their fresh-grown lettuce, and make sure not to leave without snagging one of their outstanding homemade strawberry pies. 

Before the end of the night, stop by Look Up Dessert Cafe for a bowl of Strawberry Cream. This indulgent dessert combines strawberry milk with fresh-shaved ice, graham crackers, cheesecake, and strawberry ice cream.  

Ready for bed? Check in to Hampton Inn & Suites Chesapeake-Battlefield Blvd, where you’ll find an executive lounge, fitness center, and spa. 

Day Two

Enjoy the free hot breakfast at your hotel before heading to Hickory Ridge Farm, where folks have been celebrating strawberries with their annual JAMboree for almost a decade. This all-day event offers plenty of fun activities including hayrides, face painting, food trucks, and, of course, strawberry picking. 

Just 8 minutes up the road you’ll find Historic Greenbrier Farms. With three different kinds of strawberries—Chandler, Sweet Charlie, and Ruby June—and picking hours seven days a week, you’ll easily fill your basket at this peaceful family-friendly destination.

For dinner swing by McGrath's Burger Shack. Here you can order a classic American burger or one with an Irish twist. If you’re up for a heartier meal, try their traditional Irish fare like their Bangers and Mash or Guinness Pot Roast. 

Head back to the hotel and hit the hay with visions of strawberries dancing in your head. 

Day Three

On your last day of picking, grab delicious breakfast at Pop’s Diner and ask for waffles, pancakes, or French toast, all served with fresh sliced strawberries and whipped cream. Finally, head to Lilley Farms, where bountiful fields full of strawberries await. This expansive pay-by-the-bucket location is a local favorite, and there’s even a strawberry sign that’s ideal for photo ops. Before you go, don’t forget to purchase a jar of their homemade strawberry jam; it’s the perfect souvenir to remind you of the delicious days you spent out in the fields. 

Chesapeake Spotlight