Where to Buy Fresh Local Strawberries Near Ann Arbor

Michigan strawberry season is one of the most fleeting things in local food. It lasts maybe two to three weeks — usually the second half of June — and then it’s over until next year. The strawberries you find at local farms and farmers markets during that window are nothing like what you get from a grocery store. They’re smaller, softer, deeper red, and intensely sweet. Worth planning around.

Here’s where to find them.

Farmers Markets

The fastest way to get local strawberries is to show up early at one of the Washtenaw County farmers markets on a Saturday morning. Ann Arbor, Saline, Chelsea, and Dexter all run weekly markets through the summer.

A few tips for market strawberry shopping:

• Arrive at or before opening time. Strawberries from local farms sell out fast — often by 9 or 10am on Saturdays.
• Bring cash. It’s faster and always works.
• Buy more than you think you need. They don’t last long, but they freeze beautifully — hull them, spread on a sheet pan to freeze solid, then transfer to a bag.

Farm Stands and CSAs

Several Washtenaw County farms grow strawberries as part of their CSA shares or sell them directly.

Tantre Farm in Chelsea is one of the most established organic farms in the county and typically has strawberries at both the Ann Arbor and Chelsea markets. They’re a reliable source and often one of the first to have them.

Community Farm of Ann Arbor in Webster Township is a CSA farm with hundreds of members. If you’re in their CSA, strawberries are one of the early-summer highlights. They also sell at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market.

Kapnick Orchards in Britton runs a u-pick operation that includes strawberries when in season. Worth checking their website or calling ahead to confirm availability before making the drive.

Jacob’s Fresh Farm in Dexter is a great local option — check their website or CSA listings for strawberry availability during the season.

Wasem Fruit Farm in Milan has been growing fruit in Washtenaw County for over a century and typically offers strawberries for pick-your-own and pre-picked during the season.

How to Store Them

Local strawberries are more perishable than grocery store berries, which are bred for shelf life. To get the most out of them:

• Don’t wash until right before eating — moisture accelerates mold
• Store in the refrigerator in a single layer if possible, or loosely in a container with airflow
• Plan to use within 1–2 days
• Freeze extras: Hull them, freeze flat on a sheet pan, then store in a zip bag. They’re great in smoothies, baked goods, and sauces all year

What to Make

The simplest things are often the best: strawberries with a little sugar and cream, sliced over yogurt, or in a salad with spinach and a honey balsamic dressing. Check our strawberry spinach salad recipe for a quick seasonal idea.

Don’t wait. The window is short — and once it’s closed, you’re waiting until June 2027.