Farmers’ Markets Around Metro Denver

Now that May is finally here and the trees are in bloom (and the snow is hopefully all gone), area farmers’ markets are right around the corner. Farmers’ Markets are some of our favorite family pastimes in the summer: we pack our reusable grocery bags, eat breakfast from the bread stand, and meander around the stands, sampling the best local produce and artisan products. Bonus points if there is a park nearby. Here is a sampling of some of the best farmers’ markets in the metro area, with bonus tips for various family-friendly aspects. As always, this list is by no means exhaustive, so be sure to give YOUR favorite farmers’ market a shout out in the comments below.

• Boulder Farmers’ Market (Saturdays 8am-2pm, April 2 to November 19; Wednesdays 4pm-8pm, May 4 to October 5) Considered by many to be the best farmers’ market in the area, the Boulder farmers’ market is located at 1900 13th Street. It boasts the best variety of produce, making it a worthwhile day trip for Denverites.

• Golden Farmer’s Market (Saturdays 8am-1pm, June 4 to October 1, except July 30) Make a little day trip on a Saturday to check out the Golden Farmers’ Market. Located off the Clear Creek Trail, this farmers’ market has great produce and an even better atmosphere. Clear Creek Trail is one of our favorite family walks. After the market, check out the Clear Creek History Park right on the trail, as well as the tubers and kayakers along Clear Creek.

• Highland’s Ranch Farmers’ Market (Sundays 10am-2pm, May 8 to October 30) This Sunday Farmer’s Market is conveniently located in Highland’s Ranch Town Center. Take the kids, fill up a bag of produce, and then head over to Civic Green Park to cool off in their fountains and little man-made stream. Stand of note: Styria Bakery. They make the MOST amazing cheese topped focaccia bread with whole cloves of garlic baked in. I could eat a whole loaf in one sitting.

• City Park Esplanade Fresh Market (E. Colfax Ave. and Columbine St, Sundays 9am-1pm, June 5 to October 30) This farmers’ market is recommended by DMMB contributor, Mara. She loves the smaller atmosphere and there is even a storytime once a month by local authors. How cool is that?!

• Pearl Street Farmers’ Market (Sundays 9am-1pm, May 15 to November 13) Located at the 1500 Block of Old South Pearl Street, this farmers’ market has a fun neighborhood feel. Food trucks and local artisan stands abound, and I love looking at all the little shops in the cute and trendy South Pearl neighborhood. We loved the idea that Miller Farms has: Fill up a whole bag of produce (any kind they have) for $10!

• Cherry Creek Farmers’ Market (Saturdays 8am-1pm, May 7 to October 29; Wednesdays 9am-1pm, June 15 to September 28) The Cherry Creek Farmers’ Market is on both Wednesdays and Saturdays at 1st and University. This one is a great option for those looking to skip the weekend crowd and go on a less busy week day. You could even stop here on the way to or from the zoo for some fresh produce for a picnic!

• Union Station Farmers’ Market (Saturdays 9am-2pm, June 4 to October 22) Attention: this is the Denver area’s newest farmer’s market and will be debuting on June 4. Since the new remodel a few years ago, Union Station is now considered at the center of the hustle and bustle of Denver. I can’t wait to check this one out and my preschooler will be thrilled to see the trains and jump in the fountains.

Lastly, if you want to actually visit a farm, you can’t do better than Berry Patch Farms. Located in Brighton, Berry Patch is a scenic, pick-your-own farm, specializing in raspberries and strawberries (yum!). This is such a fun little field trip to take with your kiddos. Check the website for picking times, as their crop and availability depend greatly on the weather.

What are your favorite farmers’ markets around the metro area?