Summer is well underway, which means one thing: a plethora of fresh produce. Cherries, blueberries, arugula, and carrots – whatever you’re craving on your plate this summer, you can find it grown locally! Have you dug into some locally grown goodies yet this summer?
While many Grand Rapidians opt for shares in the local harvests of community supported agriculture programs (CSA) such as those run by Blanford Farm, others prefer to make the weekly journey to their local farmers markets to fill their baskets. Fortunately, Grand Rapids and our surrounding suburbs have a number of fantastic farmers markets within walking distance from several bus routes.
So grab your grocery bag, put on a pair of comfortable shoes, and get ready for a healthy and green shopping experience. For directions, check out The Rapid’s trip planner or you can plan your trip via Google Maps. Bonus: Many of these markets accept food assistance programs this year. Don’t miss the chance to stop by these great markets this summer:
1. Fulton Street Farmers Markets
Did you know that this is Grand Rapids’ oldest and largest farmers market? Established in 1922, Fulton Street Farmers Market is still serving up fresh local goods for the community to devour. Visit the market every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Located off of Route 14 and Route 19.
Ride The Rapid to visit this outdoor market every Tuesday, from June to October. The market hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. And if you forget your bag or purchase more than you can carry, reusable market bags are for sale at the market or city hall for just $1.00!
Located at the Kentwood branch of the Kent District Library, the Kentwood Farmers Market takes place every Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., through October. Rain or shine, you’ll find fresh produce, meat, coffee, granola and more from local vendors.
You don’t have to be a Grand Valley State University student, faculty or staff member to visit the GVSU Farmers Market! Ride Route 50 to Allendale Parking Lot G to discover delicious local food and goodies. The market is open every Wednesday through the end of October from 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Ride Route 16 to get to the Metro Health Farm Market in Wyoming. Featuring a variety of goods from 60 local vendors, there’s something for everyone to love at this market. Visit on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October. For an extra special visit, stop by on Thursday, July 28, for Health and Wellness Day. This event features a chef cook-off, health screenings and other family-friendly activities.
6. Southeast Area Farmers' Market
Get on board the bus to head to Martin Luther King Jr. Park at the corner of Franklin and Fuller to visit this farmers market. Every Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can find chemical-free produce, personal care items and crafts.
7. Urban Roots
Enjoying garden-to-table foods doesn’t have to mean leaving the city. Urban Roots’ mission is to cultivate durable and resilient communities, families and ecosystems through urban agriculture. Visit the Urban Roots farm stand at 1316 Madison Ave. SE every Thursday from 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
What's your favorite farmers market?
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