Hunts Mesa | Mexican Hat

Sweet Berry Farm is an operational agricultural property located in Middletown, Rhode Island, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The farm encompasses approximately 60 acres of cultivated fields, orchards, and open pasture. Structures include a main farmhouse, a large barn, and several smaller outbuildings constructed primarily of wood with painted clapboard siding, predominantly in white and barn red. Fields are characterized by rows of seasonal crops, including strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, and corn, interspersed with apple and peach orchards. A small pond is situated on the western side of the property.

Location & Access Logistics

Sweet Berry Farm is situated at 957 West Main Road (Route 114) in Middletown, RI. It is approximately 5 kilometers southwest of the Middletown town center. Access is directly from West Main Road. A dedicated gravel parking lot is available on-site, accommodating approximately 50 vehicles. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop for the RIPTA Route 60 is located approximately 1.5 kilometers east on East Main Road.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The property was established as a working farm in the early 20th century. Its agricultural use has continued uninterrupted, focusing on small-scale fruit and vegetable production. The land is characterized by fertile loam soil, typical of coastal Rhode Island, supporting diverse crop cultivation. The pond is a man-made feature, created for irrigation purposes.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can participate in pick-your-own fruit activities, including strawberries (seasonal, typically May-June) and blueberries (seasonal, typically July-August). The farm stand offers pre-picked produce, jams, pies, and other baked goods. Hayrides are offered on weekends during the fall season. Walking through the orchards and fields is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in a dedicated facility near the farm stand. Limited shaded areas are provided by trees and awnings at the farm stand. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available on the property. Food vendors are not permanently stationed, but the farm stand sells prepared food items.

Best Time to Visit

For pick-your-own strawberries, the best time of day is early morning to avoid heat and crowds, typically between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM during May and June. For blueberry picking, late morning to early afternoon (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) in July and August is suitable. Fall foliage viewing and hayrides are best experienced on clear afternoons in October.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the original farmhouse on the property was built using timber salvaged from shipwrecks along the nearby coast. The farm is known for its annual corn maze, which changes design each year and is often themed around local historical events or figures.

Nearby Landmarks

• Norman Bird Sanctuary (1.2km Northeast)
• Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge (2.5km East)
• Easton's Beach (Second Beach) (3.0km Southeast)
• Fort Adams State Park (4.5km Southwest)
• The Breakers (4.8km Southwest)