U-Pick Orange Farms in Florida: Where to Pick the Perfect Oranges

When it comes to the quintessential Floridian experience, nothing beats a day out at a U-Pick orange farm. But with so many options available, making the right choice for your family can be a bit overwhelming. I’ll compare them based on kid-friendliness, animal-friendliness, cost, and variety of oranges, so you can decide which farm is best for your next adventure.

U-Pick Orange Farms in Florida

Where to Pick the Perfect Oranges

When you think of Florida, the image of vibrant, juicy oranges hanging on trees probably comes to mind. The state’s sub-tropical temperatures, abundant rainfall, ample sunshine, and unique, sandy soil create the perfect environment for growing some of the juiciest and most flavorful oranges in the world. If you’re in the mood for a fun, family-friendly activity, visiting a U-pick orange farm is a fantastic way to spend the day. Let’s explore three standout options: Showcase of Citrus, Dooley Groves, and Ridge Island Groves.

Showcase of Citrus

Kid-Friendly

Showcase of Citrus is like a mini theme park for kids. They offer monster truck rides through the groves, a large playground, and even a gem mining station. It’s the perfect spot to keep the kiddos entertained while you pick some delicious oranges.

Animal-Friendly

This farm is a hit with animal lovers. They have a petting zoo featuring goats, chickens, and even zebras. It’s a fantastic way to add a little extra excitement to your orange-picking escapade.

Cost

• Entry Fee: Free
• Cost to Pick: $20 per 5-gallon bucket
• Cost to Buy: Prices vary depending on the type and quantity of oranges

Variety of Oranges

Showcase of Citrus offers a wide range of orange varieties, including Navels, Hamlins, and Valencia, making it an ideal spot for those who want to try different flavors.

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Showcase of Citrus

Dooley Groves

Kid-Friendly

Dooley Groves is known for its family-friendly environment. The farm offers educational tours, which are perfect for kids to learn about orange farming. However, it doesn’t have as many playground facilities as Showcase of Citrus.

Animal-Friendly

While Dooley Groves doesn’t feature a petting zoo, the natural surroundings and educational approach make it a peaceful place to explore. It’s more about the oranges and the experience of picking them.

Cost

• Entry Fee: Free
• Cost to Pick: $8 per person entry fee, which includes a 5-pound bag
• Cost to Buy: Additional bags are priced by weight

Variety of Oranges

Dooley Groves specializes in Honeybells and Navels, offering fewer varieties but focusing on quality and taste.

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Dooley Groves

Ridge Island Groves

Kid-Friendly

Ridge Island Groves offers a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. They provide tractor-pulled wagon rides through the groves, which are always a hit with kids. While not as elaborate as Showcase of Citrus, it’s still a great spot for families.

Animal-Friendly

This farm doesn’t have a petting zoo, but the farm animals you’ll encounter during the tour can be quite charming. It’s a more rustic, authentic farm experience.

Cost

• Entry Fee: Free
• Cost to Pick: $10 per 10-pound bag
• Cost to Buy: Prices vary depending on the type and quantity of oranges

Variety of Oranges

Ridge Island Groves offers a mix of popular varieties like Navels, Hamlins, and Honeybells. Their selection gives you a good range without overwhelming choices.

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Ridge Island Groves

Conclusion: Picking the Best Farm for You

So, which farm should you visit? It really depends on what you’re looking for:

1. For Families with Kids: If keeping your kids entertained is a top priority, Showcase of Citrus is your go-to. With playgrounds, monster truck rides, and a petting zoo, it offers endless fun beyond just picking oranges.
2. For Animal Lovers: Showcase of Citrus again takes the crown with its variety of farm animals that kids can interact with.
3. For Budget-Conscious Pickers: Ridge Island Groves provides a fantastic deal at $10 per 10-pound bag, making it the best option for those looking to get the most oranges for their buck.
4. For Orange Variety Enthusiasts: If you want to explore various types of oranges, both Showcase of Citrus and Ridge Island Groves offer multiple varieties.

Whichever farm you choose, you’re in for a delightful, sun-soaked day of orange picking. Ready to plan your trip? Reach out to the farms directly to RSVP for special events or to get more details on their offerings!