Greetings, fruit lovers! If you’re like us, there’s nothing better than biting into a juicy, fresh-picked piece of fruit, especially when you’ve picked it yourself.
Well, you don’t have to travel miles into the country to enjoy fruit picking. Duluth has a hidden gem – urban orchards scattered throughout the city!
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best spots to go fruit-picking in Duluth and provide tips on how to make the most of your urban orchard experience.
Before we get started though, I wanted to let you know I have an entire guide on Things to Do In Duluth, so be sure to check it out.
1. The Lincoln Park Urban Orchard
First up is the Lincoln Park Urban Orchard, nestled in the heart of Duluth’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. This quaint urban oasis boasts a variety of fruit trees, including apple, cherry, and pear. As you stroll through the orchard, you’ll also find a smattering of raspberry and blueberry bushes.
Be sure to check out the community garden where you might just find some fresh veggies to complement your fruit haul!
Fruit Picking Tip: Use a fruit picker or a long stick with a hook to reach those high-up fruits without damaging the tree.
2. Duluth’s East Hillside Orchard
This urban orchard is a true hidden treasure located in Duluth’s East Hillside neighborhood. Home to an impressive array of apple, plum, and cherry trees, you’ll love the variety and quality of the fruit here. It’s a perfect spot for a family outing or a romantic picnic under the trees.
Fruit Picking Tip: Remember to twist the fruit gently when picking it, rather than to pull it off the branch, to avoid damaging the tree.
3. The Gary New Duluth Community Orchard
The Gary New Duluth Community Orchard is a beautiful example of a thriving urban orchard in the city. This orchard is supported by the surrounding community and features apple, pear, plum, and cherry trees. While there, remember to explore the nearby Gary New Duluth Recreation Area for scenic hiking and picnicking spots.
Fruit Picking Tip: Always pick ripe fruit – it should come off the tree easily with a gentle twist. Underripe fruit may not ripen properly once picked.
4. The Riverside Community Orchard
Situated along the banks of the St. Louis River, the Riverside Community Orchard is a picturesque spot for fruit-picking enthusiasts. The orchard is home to apple, plum, and cherry trees, and even a small area is dedicated to currant bushes. The serene setting and lovely river views make this orchard a must-visit for Duluthians and visitors alike.
Fruit Picking Tip: Bring a reusable bag or container to collect your fruit in, and avoid using plastic bags to minimize waste.
5. The Morgan Park Orchard
Lastly, the Morgan Park Orchard is located in the historic Morgan Park neighborhood. This lovely urban orchard features apple, cherry, and pear trees, and even a tiny section with grapevines! Keep an eye out for community events, like fruit-picking workshops and cider-making classes, held at the orchard throughout the year.
Fruit Picking Tip: Be respectful of the trees and the environment – never pick more fruit than you need, and be mindful not to leave any trash behind.
6. The Hillside Harvest Urban Orchard
The Hillside Harvest Urban Orchard is located on the eastern edge of Duluth, offering a stunning view of Lake Superior. This picturesque orchard features apple, pear, plum trees, and a few black currant and gooseberry bushes. It’s an ideal location for a weekend outing with the family, and you can even try making preserves with your fresh-picked fruit!
7. The West End Urban Orchard
Situated in Duluth’s West End neighborhood, this urban orchard is a hidden gem with a diverse range of fruit trees, including apple, cherry, peach, and apricot. The West End Urban Orchard also boasts a small vineyard with several varieties of grapes. Be sure to visit in the late summer and early fall when the fruit is at its peak ripeness.
8. The Congdon Park Community Orchard
Nestled in the Congdon Park neighborhood, this community-supported urban orchard is a charming and peaceful spot for fruit picking. The Congdon Park Community Orchard is home to apple, cherry, and pear trees and a selection of berry bushes. While you’re there, walk along the nearby Tischer Creek for a relaxing nature walk.
Urban Orchard Etiquette
Now that you know some of the best spots for fruit picking in Duluth, let’s go over a few basic rules of urban orchard etiquette to ensure a pleasant experience for all:
Ask for permission: Many urban orchards are maintained by community organizations or private property owners. Always check for signage and, if necessary, ask for permission before entering and picking fruit.
- Be mindful of others: Remember that urban orchards are shared spaces, so respect other visitors, the fruit trees, and the surrounding environment. Leave enough fruit for others to enjoy, and keep noise levels to a minimum.
- Clean up after yourself: Don’t leave any trash behind, and dispose of fruit waste (like peels and cores) in designated compost bins, if available. Otherwise, take your waste home with you and dispose of it properly.
- Follow any posted rules or guidelines: Some urban orchards have specific rules, like designated picking hours or limits on the amount of fruit you can pick. Be sure to abide by these guidelines to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
- Share what you pick: If you end up with more fruit than you can use, consider sharing it with friends, family, or neighbors. You can also donate your surplus fruit to local food banks or community organizations to help those in need.
- Spread the word: If you’ve enjoyed your fruit-picking experience in Duluth, share your discoveries with others! Word-of-mouth is a powerful tool for promoting and supporting these urban orchards, ensuring their continued existence and success.
That’s A Wrap!
Duluth’s urban orchards provide a unique opportunity to enjoy fruit picking in the city’s heart, fostering community and connection to nature. By following our guide and respecting the urban orchard etiquette, you can participate in this fun activity and savor the fruits of your labor.
Remember that urban orchards are often managed and maintained by volunteers, local organizations, or private property owners. Be sure to respect any posted rules, ask for permission when needed, and practice good orchard etiquette during your visit.
Now, grab your reusable bags, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure, and head out to explore Duluth’s urban orchards for a fun and fruitful day in the city!