There's no better way to stock up on fresh produce and other delicious, handcrafted foods than by hitting up a local farmer's market. You know you're getting high quality goods because everything is picked right from your city's backyard. They're a great way to help support small businesses and farmers, and you'll eat a little greener along the way. Popping up all across the nation and bringing communities together, here are our picks for some of the best farmer's markets the U.S. has to offer.
TheStuddedLace.com
Union Square Greenmarket | New York City
New York, New York! Who knew the concrete jungle would host so much green? This farmer's market is notable not only for its high vendor count, but for offering services such as textile recycling and food scrap collection for compost. Located in the urban public space of Union Square, the market boasts hand-picked fruits and vegetables, artisan cheeses and meats, fresh breads, jams, flowers, wine...you name it! Attendees also enjoy book signings and cooking classes. Over 60,000 people visit the market on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Here is where you can learn more.
downtownsm.com
Santa Monica Farmer's Market
California is known for its fresh produce and fertile soil, so it comes as no surprise that Santa Monica would house such a popular farmer's market. With the goal of building community and preserving local farmland, local farmers bring out their freshest ingredients and homemade foods prepared daily to sample and buy. The Santa Monica Farmer's Market has also implemented an education program featuring storytelling, arts and crafts and more for children to enjoy and expand their minds. Find out more here.
Bob Benenson | Huffington Post
Chicago Green City Market
Next, we hit up Chi-town for another hip farmer's market with some urban greenery. This open-air farmer's market, which also offers a farmer scholarship program, brings together tons of local small family farms and vendors that promote sustainable goods and fair-treatment of livestock. To further educate people about quality food sources, Green City Market teamed up with University of Chicago's Booth School of Management to create a cost comparison guide for smarter consumption. Smack dab in Lincoln Park, you've got yourself an opportunity to buy locally and learn more about helping the environment. Get more info here.
museumofthecity.org
Portland Farmer's Market
In the midst of Portland State University's campus, Oregon's largest open-air market wows crowds every year. The market features over 200 vendors from the Pacific Northwest: cheese makers, farmers, bakers, growers, ranchers, fishers, and more. The market hosts awesome chef demonstrations and educational cooking classes, and provides tons to eat amid the hustle and bustle. Open all year round, Portland Farmer's Market is a great way to spend the morning or afternoon listening to music, shopping, and enjoying the sites. For more info, check out their website.
gallivant.com
Santa Fe Farmer's Market
Located in the rail yard, the Santa Fe Farmer's Market headlines over 150 vendors selling hordes of fresh ingredients and produce. And better yet, they ensure that all of their fruits and vegetables are locally grown. That's right: 100% local produce. The market also offers special events year round, like an artisan market featuring glass blowing, handmade jewelry, sculptures and more! Get more info here.
Right in the heart of Music City, surrounded by the taste of sweet southern air, is an even sweeter local farmer's market. It's been around since the 1800s and gives Nashville part of its "small-town-in-a-big-city" flare. Featuring artisans, flea merchants, farmers, small businesses and craftsmen, this market has a unique southern vibe that you won't want to shake. Head on over, y'all! Learn more about this market on the website.
Randy Santos | Washingtonian.com
Eastern Market | Washington, D.C.
Over in our nation's capital, the top-notch Eastern Market sprawls out right along Capitol Hill. It's a fun-loving community with fresh foods, arts and crafts, and an all-around good time. The market is constantly buzzing with exciting events like dances, live music, antiques, food, and more! People from all over join together to come out for this market, so you don't want to miss it. Find more info here.
Charleston Farmer's Market Facebook page
Charleston Farmer's Market
Shop Southern in none other than Charleston, South Carolina. This seasonal farmer's market has fresh produce, cut flowers, vibrant herbs, homemade preserves, handmade pasta, local meats, jewelry and antiques--all key ingredients for a quality market. The market also offers family activities, such as fitness classes, which are scheduled throughout the season. Citizens and visitors alike love the place and it keeps people coming back. Learn more about it here.
Jeanne Damoff
Pike Place Market | Seattle, Washington
Established in 1907, Pike Place Market holds spot on the top shelf of our nation's farmer's markets. It holds true to its claims to be a "multi-sensory experience of sights, sounds, tastes, aromas and textures" within the twisting alleys and crevices of the old historic arcade. Pike Place Market's website offers a Find A Farmer feature that allows potential visitors to search available goods and meet the producers. They've got tons of food and produce to choose from, as well as collectables, antiques, treasures, and anything you could ever imagine. Check out their website to learn more.
travelwisconsin.com
Dane County Farmers' Market | Madison, Wisconsin
The Dane County Farmers' Market claims to be the largest producer-only farmers' market in the country with 300 vendors that cycle throughout the year. It is laden with bountiful fruits and vegetables that create a truly agricultural experience. The market is all about freshness, taste, quality, and nutrition, making it a guilt-free trip to foodie heaven. Plus, this market offers a scholarship fund to invest in tomorrow's farmers with the education they need to produce sustainable products. Check out their website here.
