Exploring the Best Farmers Markets in the US

Farmers markets have become a popular destination for travelers looking to sample the best a region has to offer. From Portland to New York, and from Santa Fe to Atlanta, there are plenty of markets that offer fresh, seasonal produce, locally-made delicacies and pastries, and unique products. Here is a list of the top farmers markets in the US that you should visit on your next trip. The Portland Farmers Market is held every Saturday on the Portland State University campus and brings together more than 150 of the region's best farmers and producers.

Visitors can find everything from French and Italian chestnuts to bison cuts, yaks and free-range boars. Arrive early on Saturday to try Enchanted Sun's breakfast burritos or grab an organic crepe while browsing the stalls. In New York City, Union Square Greenmarket is an outdoor oasis with a diverse selection of products. The market was founded in 1976 and has 140 regional farmers, fishermen and bakers. Shoppers can buy freshly picked fruits and vegetables, farm cheeses and artisanal breads, or choose from a selection of cut flowers, wine and jam.

Don't miss the market's live cooking demonstrations by popular local chefs. The Pike Place Market in Seattle is one of the most popular produce outlets in the country. Located at the end of a cobblestone street, the market features fresh produce from more than 80 farmers in Washington. Local chefs offer cooking demonstrations and visitors can chat with farmers about seasonal produce. Vendors offer everything from forage foods, such as mushrooms and blueberries, to agricultural crafts, such as beeswax candles and lavender body butter. The Santa Fe Farmers Market is open year-round and includes more than 150 active suppliers.

Visitors can find everything from sweet corn and yellow chili to buffalo sausages and mesquite honey. During the planting season, stop by the market nursery to see vibrant flowers and herbs in pots. The Charleston Farmer's Market attracts a continuous stream of locals and visitors. The market is open every Saturday from April to December and offers shoppers a sample of fresh Lowcountry food and produce. Juicy blueberries, grass-fed beef and flavored local nuts are just a few of the products you can find at the market. The Davis Farmers Market, spread over a third of a five-acre park in California, has a growing number of local vendors and a pleasant and friendly atmosphere.

Visitors can browse the stalls with baked goods and certified organic products, or stop by Fat Face on Saturday mornings for breakfast, sandwiches and popsicles. The Green City Market in Chicago is where food lovers go shopping. Every year, between May and October, the 55 market stalls tempt visitors with sustainable products and delicious locally prepared food. Shoppers can take home fresh baguettes from a popular North Shore bakery or stock up on vegetables and herbs from neighboring farms. Head to downtown Santa Monica on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays to visit the city's illustrious farmers market. More than 75 farmers offer fresh local produce, and every week a local restaurant offers its products at an outdoor stand.

End your grocery shopping experience with a glass of freshly squeezed juice; blood orange juice is a favorite. Finally, don't miss out on Paul Farmers' Market, as all products must be grown within a 50-mile radius of the market. Only the freshest fruits and vegetables in season are shown, and visitors can talk to vendors to learn more about the origin of their products. For those who want a quick snack, don't miss out on fresh Vietnamese spring rolls, bagel sandwiches, and tuna patties at Sweet Auburn Curb Market in Atlanta. Located on the east end of the city center, the market has more than 20 vendors offering everything from fresh produce, meat and seafood to baked goods. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience that will give you an authentic taste of each region you visit - then you should definitely check out some of these amazing farmers markets! From Portland to New York City, Santa Fe to Atlanta - each one offers something unique that you won't find anywhere else! So make sure you add these markets to your travel itinerary for your next trip!.

Paulette Gruver
Paulette Gruver

Passionate beeraholic. Infuriatingly humble internet ninja. Evil internet lover. Evil coffee fan. Typical tv buff.