Harbor Country's position to Lake Michigan makes for fantastic growing conditions of all kinds of produce.
Not only do we have a number of vineyards producing the region's wonderful wines, but we also have fantastic farms that produce amazingly fresh and delicious fruits and veggies.
Buying some fresh produce to eat while you're here or to take home to savor another day is easy! Harbor Country's many towns have their own farmers markets on alternate days of the week. And, if you need fresh produce on demand, you can always visit Michigan Local Harvest Fruit Stand, just 10 minutes North in Sawyer or Mick Klug's farmstand in downtown New Buffalo, also a short drive from the Inn. Both are open 7 days a week!
Alternatively, finding a “U-Pick” fruit farm is a great activity to enhance your time in Michigan and enjoy a little farm-to-mouth eating! Visit our other post that details many of the DIY farms around the Inn.
Here is a round-up of the local farmer's markets where you can grab locally grown produce and provisions.
New Buffalo Farmers Market – 2 E. Buffalo St. New Buffalo | Thursdays 4-8 pm
Every Thursday in the downtown shopping district, the New Buffalo Farmers Market is full of surprises. Fill up your tote with goodies, grab some dinner and then stay for a beach sunset. A perfect Thursday evening! This market has 20+ vendors selling all kinds of wonderful produce & baked goods.
Three Oaks Market – 1 S. Elm St. Three Oaks | Fridays 3-7 pm
Fruits and vegetables naturally make their appearance at the Three Oaks Farmers Market. But Three Oaks is a quirky, creative town full of charm. At the market, you’ll find Three Oaks artists and vendors alongside the fresh produce. Check out if there’s anything happening in conjunction with the market, like Wurstfest–a festival for liverwurst– or the Apple Cider Century bike race, both in September.
Granor Farmstore – 3480 Warren Woods Rd. Three Oaks | Fridays & Saturdays 9 am - 3 pm
Selling only items grown and produced on site, Granor Farm Store weekends delight shoppers with the freshest of the fresh in-season produce and goods. Fruits and vegetables are showcased, along with grains, herbs, and flowers. You can also find locally-made soups, butters, sweets, meats–featuring charcuterie, breads, and more.
Skip’s European Market – 16710 Lake Shore Rd. New Buffalo | Saturdays & Sundays 9 am - 3 pm
This market is both weekend days, and the closest to Garden Grove–just a quick jaunt South on Red Arrow Highway (totally accessible on a bicycle!). If you are planning on just getting fruits and vegetables, Skip’s will widen your scope. Find some of their specialty cheeses, coffee from Red Arrow Roasters, vintage goods, furniture, cutting boards, jewelry, candles, and other crafts. And, treat yourself to one of Skip's world-famous burgers for lunch!
Bridgman Open Air Market – 4509 Lake St. Bridgman | Sundays 9 am - 3 pm
Bridgman's Open Air Market was started by a farming couple only five years ago, and with over 40 vendors, it has made a name for itself. Featuring fresh, local produce, flowers, eggs, crafts, and more.
For more on what is in season when, check out this handy graphic from CultivateMichigan.org
