SW Michigan Summer Adventure to Brookside Farms & Maple Isle
“Juicy, sun-warmed blueberries picked right off the bush is a summertime delight for the tastebuds.”
Brookside Farms
July and August in Michigan is synonymous with blueberry picking, thanks to Lake Michigan. The lake effect with it’s moderate temperatures makes Southwest Michigan’s “fruit belt” one of the largest producer of fruit in the world. For the last 8 years it’s become a tradition in our family to head to Brookside Farms in Paw Paw.
Before heading out to go blueberry picking, her are the best Tips for Blueberry Picking, Storage and Recipes.
This South West Michigan family-friendly farm provides both U-pick and Ready Pick. A new playground was added on site as well as fun pictures opportunities. Hands free picking is made easy as they provide buckets and strings to tie around your waist or neck.
After picking, relax in their beautiful air conditioned store with choices of delicious baked goods, ice cream and our personal favorite Smoothies! Choose from three flavors: blueberry, raspberry, strawberry or combine all three for a triple berry delight!
Blueberry festivals are occurring all throughout the summer, check out pick your own to find one near you.
Maple Isle
Make a day of it in downtown Paw Paw and cross the bridge to Maple Isle, which has a picnic area, swings and playground. There are two parking areas, one directly across from the bridge and the other down the road by the boat launch. Paw Paw Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals is available at the boat launch Wed - Sun 10am-6pm.
Lewis Park :Lawton Splash Pad & Kid’s Dream Park
Need to cool off? Head to Lewis Park which holds the Lawton Splash Pad and Kid’s Dream Park. Only a 15 minute drive, this park has tons of large trees offering shade, picnic tables and restrooms. The wooden castle playground is huge with towers, tire swings, slides, rope climbs and a balance course, favorite with all my children. Plus, the small splash pad is perfect for cooling off during hot days!
Lewis Park Address: 156 Pinetree Ln., Lawton MI 49065
Follow Discovering Anew for more fun Michigan activities! Happy Picking!
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