Mackey's Farm and Orchard, in Belvidere,
NJ, is definitely my favorite Warren County
stop-in for fresh produce, a homemade treat, and some good old farmer-style fun.
As soon as the weather warms up in April, I find myself driving by there,
gazing longingly at the big "Mackey's" sign with big black apple,
wishing it were summer already.
Family-owned Mackey's offers an array of exciting sights,
sounds, aromas, and of course, various farm-themed items and foods for
purchase. Walk down the stone steps, and you'll hear the pleasant trickling of
a miniature waterfall decorated with colorful flowers and plants. Next to this, they have a smattering of little tables for visitors to sit and take a little break while enjoying
a farm-made treat.
In summertime, folks line up at the ice cream barn for delicious,
homemade frozen goodies: fresh strawberry or blackberry sundaes, peach or
pumpkin ice cream that's made on the premise... the featured selections depend
on whatever orchard fruits are in season. Open the barn door, and you'll find
bins and barrels of fresh corn, peaches, tomatoes, peppers, berries and plenty
of other types of produce. They also have jams, jellies and other
canned food-goods, farm-fresh eggs and some other sundry items. There is also a
playground in the back for kids to enjoy, and they host children's parties by
appointment.
In autumn, Mackey's is the perfect place to stop in after a
drive through the country to enjoy the colorful fall foliage. You can pick your
own apples, grab a bag of homemade cider donuts (sooo good!!), and pick through
all shapes, sizes and colors of pumpkins and gourds. In addition, you'll find
all the typical fall embellishments such as hay bales, corn stalks and dried
Indian corn. And let's not forget their amazing, homemade pies and other baked
goodies.
At Mackey's farm, you can always count on owner Holly Mackey
and the other girls who work there, for a warm smile, friendly greeting and
excellent service. All in all, Mackey's is a great place to stop over the
course of your Warren County, NJ meanderings. They're on Rt. 519 in Belvidere, across from the Brookfield development.
Support your local farmers! Buy locally grown produce at
Mackey's Farm and Orchard.