Eckert's Pick Your Own Belleville Farm

Eckert's Belleville Farm offers the ultimate hands-on farm experience where kids can pick their own seasonal fruits, meet friendly farm animals in the petting zoo, and enjoy bouncing wagon rides through the fields. The working farm combines educational agriculture experiences with pure fun, plus you can refuel at their on-site restaurant serving delicious homemade country meals and famous fruit desserts.

• ✓Pick-your-own strawberries, peaches, apples, and pumpkins depending on season
• ✓Hands-on petting zoo with goats, sheep, and other friendly farm animals
• ✓Scenic wagon rides through the orchards and fields
• ✓On-site country restaurant with homemade pies, cobblers, and kid-friendly meals
• ✓Seasonal festivals and special events throughout the year

1. 1.Arrive early in the morning (9-10am) for the coolest temperatures and freshest picking, especially during summer berry season
2. 2.Bring a wagon or stroller to haul your fruit pickings and tired little ones,the farm is expansive
3. 3.Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty; bring sunscreen and hats as much of the farm is in full sun
4. 4.Check the farm's website before visiting to see what's ripe for picking,fruit availability changes weekly throughout the season
5. 5.Save room for their famous fruit pies and cobblers at the restaurant, or grab a whole pie to take home

Visit on weekday mornings during spring (strawberry season) or fall (apple and pumpkin season) for smaller crowds and the best picking selection. Weekends feature special activities but get busy, especially during October's pumpkin patch season.

Admission to the farm is free; you pay only for what you pick by the pound. The restaurant accepts cards, but bring cash for some activity stations. Ample free parking is available, and most areas are stroller-accessible though paths can be uneven.

Peak seasons are late May-June for strawberries, July-August for peaches, and September-October for apples and pumpkins. The farm hosts special fall festivals with corn mazes, hayrides, and harvest activities. Winter hours are limited; check ahead for holiday events and winter availability.

Head to Bandana's Bar-B-Q (10 minutes away) for kid-approved ribs and mac & cheese, or visit Crusoe's Restaurant for casual American fare with a children's menu in a relaxed atmosphere.