Having a Field Day
McGlasson Farms,
5832 River Road, Hebron, Ky.
(about 30 minutes from downtown Cincinnati)
More at McGlasson Farms’ Facebook page
If you're looking for a wholesome, screen-free weekend adventure with the kids (that doesn’t involve assembling anything or standing in line for overpriced popcorn), I’ve got just the spot: McGlasson Farms, right along the scenic Route 8 in Hebron, Kentucky — just a short drive from Cincinnati.
We recently packed up snacks, sunscreen, and an extra dose of patience (because: toddlers) and headed out for a morning of blueberry picking. Let me tell you — this might just be our new summer tradition.
Why McGlasson Farms?
This sixth-generation family farm has charm in spades. Think: red barns, wide open fields, friendly faces, and the smell of fresh fruit hanging in the air. They open up their blueberry fields every June, and it’s pick-your-own, which means the kids get to be part of the action — and sneak a few berries, of course. (Note: they’ll definitely eat more than they pick, and that’s half the fun.)
The Strawberry Season Slip-Up
We did try to grab some strawberries when we arrived, but we were a bit late to that game — the fields were already picked over. Lesson learned: strawberries are a hot commodity and go fast. But all was not lost! Blueberries were still going strong, and the farm staff gave us a heads-up that blackberries are just around the corner. So if you're planning a visit soon, it’s the perfect time to catch the next wave of deliciousness.
Kid-Approved Fun
The rows are easy to walk and stroller-friendly — a big win when you're bringing little ones along. My friend and I took an almost-two-year-old, Rose, and a three-year-old, Maeve, and they had an absolute blast. Maeve took blueberry picking very seriously, carefully placing each berry into the bucket like a tiny farmer-in-training. Meanwhile, Rose was more focused on quality control — by which I mean, eating every other berry straight off the bush.
Of course, no toddler adventure is complete without a little drama. When it was time to leave, there was a minor (read: dramatic) scuffle over who got to carry the bucket of berries to the stand to pay. After some high-level parental negotiation, they agreed to take turns. For 30 seconds.
They were sticky, sweaty, and ready for a nap by the end — which, honestly, felt like a sign of blueberry success.
Tip: Go early in the day to beat the heat and get the best berries — and maybe wear dark-colored clothes if your kids pick like ours do (aka: with enthusiastic, juice-stained enthusiasm).
Know Before You Go:
Field Day: Blueberry picking usually kicks off mid-June — check their Facebook page or call ahead for field conditions.
What to Bring: Hats, water, sunscreen, and a bag for your bounty. They provide picking containers, but bringing your own cooler helps if you're stocking up.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a low-stress, high-reward way to spend a Saturday morning, McGlasson Farms delivers. Fresh air, fresh fruit, tired, happy kids — and a pound of juicy blueberries for just seven bucks? Count us in.
– Shae Huth