Best of Western Mass: Farmstands

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Amherst, Hadley, and the neighboring towns boast numerous farms, making visits to local farm stands a must. Throughout spring, summer, and fall, these stands offer a delightful array of seasonal goods that are always fresh and appealing. Here are some local farm stands you won't want to miss.

Teddy C. Smiarowksi Farmstand and Creamery

This farm stand in Sunderland had plenty of great offerings when I visited in June, but the freshly picked strawberries caught my eye. They also sell a wide variety of flowers, maple syrup, onions, honey, potatoes, asparagus, and cabbage. Not only do they sell fresh produce, but attached is a small creamery with unique flavors like cherry blossom, sea salt caramel, Belmont coffee, and toasted coconut. Fortunately, it only took me about 10 minutes to drive to this farmstand from campus! 

Northampton Farmers’ Market

From April 27th to November 9th, Gothic Street in downtown Northampton is closed for the Saturday farmers market from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. There is a wide variety of plants, such as annuals, perennials, and succulents. You can also find flower bouquets sold by different vendors, all of which are beautiful. Other vendors sell products ranging from maple syrup to herbal health products. This market is perfect if you are looking for a variety of options, but be sure to get there early as the best products are there in the morning! 

Wanczyk Produce 

Located right on Route 9, Wanczyk Produce offers a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as plenty of other products. When I visited I bought a bouquet of flowers for just $8 and loved having an arrangement of locally picked flowers. If you are looking for fresh produce that isn’t too far from campus, definitely check this place out. If you don’t have access to a car, the PVTA stops just before Wanczyk Produce. 

Amherst Farmers’ Market 

Going to the Amherst Farmers’ Market on a Saturday morning is one of my favorite things to do in the area. From April 20th to November 23rd you can visit the Amherst Common for a spectacular community event. This market doesn’t only have produce and flowers, but also baked goods, beeswax products, soaps, jams, homemade kombucha and so much more. Even if you aren't in the market for any of these things, it is a great chance to learn about all the hard work that happens in the Amherst community and surrounding areas. 

North Hadley Sugar Shack 

This store is much more than just a farm stand, it is a restaurant, store, deli, and bakery. But of course, you can find a wide variety of farm fresh produce, seasonal plants, and flowers all grown at their family farm. The North Hadley Sugar Shack is a one-stop shop for all of your needs, and be sure to visit in the fall for maple syrup products and apple cider donuts.