Alstede Farms was founded in 1982 by the Alstede family. The farm provides a wide variety of sustainably grown produce for their own farm store, CSA program and tailgate markets across northern New Jersey. The farm is located just off U.S. Route 206 in Chester, and is easy to reach from I-80, I-78, and I-287.
Alstede Farms is open year-round, though outdoor activities often end around 6:00 pm as the sun sets. Weekend admission is $6.99 per person and includes picking areas and a hay ride. Activities like pony rides and the corn maze require additional tickets that can be purchased in advance or onsite.
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Year Round: (Pies, Ice Cream, Jams, Firewood) The Farm Store is open year round and sells a wide variety of groceries, including seasonal fruits and vegetables as well as local meats, dairy products and eggs. The Alstede bakery makes quiche, fruit pies and cider donuts year round, and the farm also sells homemade ice cream made with its own fruits. Other popular items include Alstede’s own jams and jellies, local wine tastings, and seasoned firewood.
Fall: (Corn Maze, Pumpkins, Indian Corn, Potatoes)
Alstede’s expansive pick-your-own fields include more than just fruit. In addition to typical fall apple picking, they also offer families the chance to pick decorative Indian corn and gourds and even dig up their own potatoes. The corn maze is popular throughout the fall, and live music and kid-friendly activities make autumn weekends take on a festival spirit at the farm.
Winter: (Santa, Pies, Gifts, Fudge)
When the autumn picking season is over, the Farm Store stays open all winter long. On weekends in December, Santa comes to the farm along with a warm campfire and hot cocoa to enjoy during your visit. For holiday shopping, try homemade pies, fudge and locally made gifts like small-batch fruit syrups and handmade soaps.
Spring: (Strawberries, Peas, Flowers, Bark Mulch)
The Garden Center comes to life in the spring, with baskets and containers of seasonal flowers. Bark mulch is also available for delivery to spruce up your landscape for the growing season. The pick-your-own season begins in May with strawberries as well as shelling peas — a real treat to eat fresh.
Summer: (Flowers, Sweet Corn, Raspberries, Cantaloupe)
Alstede’s pick-your-own program offers an incredible variety of produce. Fruits include blueberries, raspberries and cantaloupe as well as hard-to-find gooseberries and currants. There are also traditional orchard favorites like peaches, cherries, and pears. Families are invited to come and pick their own vegetables, including sweet corn, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers and beans. You can also borrow a pair of scissors and stroll the flower gardens to cut your own blooms for one-of-a-kind bouquets.
Farm Location:
1 Alstede Farms Lane
Chester, NJ 07930
Visit alstedefarms.com for more info.
