If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Sin City, this may just be one of the most beloved local escapes. Tucked away in Centennial Hills, you’ll find a nearly 100-year-old working farm that feels completely detached from the neon lights – and it has officially opened its gates for the spring season.
Spring season at Gilcrease Orchard
Gilcrease Orchard has been a fiercely protected local staple since the 1920s. While most people know it for its highly popular fall pumpkin patch, the spring opening brings its own magic. In fact, some visitors prefer this season – and for good reason!
Starting this month (March), the orchard has resumed its morning U-pick hours. You can walk the dirt paths and hand-harvest fresh spring vegetables directly from the Mojave Desert soil! Depending on the week, you can fill your bags with fresh radishes, bok choy, cabbage, carrots, and more.
But let’s be honest: half the city shows up for the farm stand. Why? Because the spring opening means the return of Gilcrease’s legendary, homemade carrot cake and strawberry donuts, apple cider, and kettle corn. You seriously cannot miss any of these.
Oh, and don’t forget the spring fields! They’re particularly stunning right now, featuring rows of brightly colored, blooming ranunculus flowers. Here, you can also take a yoga class on certain weekends (coming up: sunrise and sunset session on March 27 & 28).
The early bird gets the…fresh veggies & delicious donuts
Because the desert heat gets brutal quickly, the orchard operates on strict early bird hours. They are currently open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 7 AM to 10 AM. Entry is completely free – you just pay for the produce you pick, the wonderful yoga classes, and the donuts you inevitably eat after.
