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The Garden Coffee Shop coffee shop in Rochester, MN
Photo: Bailey McPhee

The Garden Coffee Shop

4.6(10 reviews)$Farm
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love picking produce and seeing farm animals, while elementary-aged kids enjoy learning about where food comes from through hands-on demonstrations and seasonal activities.

About

The Garden Coffee Shop offers families a unique blend of farm experiences and café refreshments on a working family farm in Rochester. Kids can participate in seasonal u-pick activities, watch educational farming demonstrations, and learn about agriculture firsthand while parents enjoy quality coffee and farm-fresh products in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Highlights

  • Seasonal u-pick fruits and vegetables - hands-on harvesting fun
  • Educational farm demonstrations showing real agricultural practices
  • Coffee shop with farm-fresh products and family-friendly refreshments
  • Farm store featuring locally-grown produce and homemade goods
  • Authentic working farm atmosphere with learning opportunities

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty, especially if visiting during u-pick season
  2. 2.Arrive earlier in the day (morning hours) when kids have more energy for picking activities and farm tours
  3. 3.Bring your own containers or baskets for u-pick activities to save a few dollars
  4. 4.Check their seasonal calendar before visiting to catch special demonstrations or farm events
  5. 5.Don't miss their farm store for fresh products and unique local items to take home

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best experience with peak u-pick seasons and pleasant weather for outdoor farm activities. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded than weekends.

What to Know

The farm operates seasonally with varying u-pick activities throughout the growing season. On-site parking is available, and the coffee shop offers light refreshments and farm products for purchase.

Seasonal Notes

U-pick activities are seasonal and vary by crop availability (typically May through October). Contact ahead to confirm what's currently available for picking. Some demonstrations and outdoor activities may be limited during winter months.

Nearby Eats

For additional dining, check out Newt's North (casual American fare with kids' menu) orHn Mongolian Grill where kids enjoy watching their meals prepared, both within a short drive on North Broadway.

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