Biringer Farm455

If you're looking for a change of pace during June or July, head 35 miles north of Seattle to Biringer Farm, in operation since 1938.

The farm sells strawberries, raspberries, and delicately flavored tayberries in the summer. You can buy them ready picked or - and this is the most fun option - pick them yourselves. During berry season you'll see families carrying trays while riding out to the fields on the "Jolly Trolley" to pluck choice berries right from the vine.

Local strawberries are sweet, flavorful, and delicate; once you taste one, you'll never look at supermarket berries the same way again. A trip out to the farm makes a great field trip with summer-bored kids, and even if you don't pick enough yourselves, you can always buy some on your way out (kind of like picking up a salmon at the grocery store after a fishing trip). Sliced and Sugared Strawberries ready to eat and freeze are also available in 15-pound containers.

Bring sunscreen, hats, and water, and consider bringing a backpack or big-wheeled stroller to tote shaky walkers. We've gone with very small kids, but grade-schoolers seem to have more fun.

Call the farm before showing up; strawberries usually ripen from mid June to mid July, but the weather can slow them down or speed them up. Same goes for the other crops.

Tours (geared to ages five to 12) are available during the harvest season, and the farm is available for birthday parties and corporate events.

Weekends can be busy; this is a popular destination. See our calendar for information.