Pick. at Garden Patch Farms
Strawberries, blackberries and raspberries are available at this 30-acre u-pick farm during the summer. The site also has apple, peach, plum and pear trees. (Sign up on the farm’s website to receive email notices when specific fruits are available.) Kids can feed the resident chickens during visits and take part in special events throughout the growing season such as a butterfly release on June 14. 14158 W. 159th St., Homer Glen (708-301-7720). 9 a.m.–6 p.m. daily; arrive by 5 p.m. Admission $5, fruit $3–$6 per pound.
Plow Creek Farm
You can pick from 10 varieties of strawberries, eight types of blueberries, six types of raspberries as well as blackberries at this farm about two hours west of Chicago. Other crops available for sale include sweet corn, seedless watermelon and tomatoes. 19000 CR-23, Tiskilwa Bottom Road, Tiskilwa (815-646-4862). Call ahead for u-pick hours. Strawberries $2.10 per pound, blueberries $2.40 per pound, raspberries $3 per pint.
Olive Berry Acres
About 70 miles southwest of Chicago, this farm offers guests the chance to pick red and black raspberries as well as several varieties of strawberries. Farm hours are adapted to crop availability, so visit the website or call before you visit. 2575 W. Mine Road, Mazon (815-474-6511). 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Tuesday–Friday; 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday–Monday. Strawberries $2.25 per pound, raspberries $5.25 per pound.
