When you are looking or the best places to live in the country, one of the best ways to get a feel for the local culture of a place is to see where residents shop, eat, and enjoy themselves. People often do all three of these things at farmers’ markets. Below you’ll find four must-see markets that are located throughout the United States. Take the time to explore them the next time you find yourself in these scenic cities.
University District Farmers’ Market in Seattle, Washington
Seattle is known as the Emerald City because of the gorgeous evergreen forests that surround the city, and it is a place many nature lovers call home. So the fact that it has an especially great farmers’ market seems rather appropriate. This massive farmers’ market hosts around 60 growers and others who gather on the grounds of the University Heights Community Center playground to hold the market. Sellers offer farm fresh fruits and vegetables, and others sell artisanal food and beverages. It is open on Saturdays all throughout the year from 9:00 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Charleston Farmers’ Market in Charleston, South Carolina
The Charleston Farmers’ Market is held in scenic Marion Square. This farmers’ market offers such items as fresh vegetables, fresh preserves, handmade pasta, jewelry, and fresh fruits. For most of the year, the Charleston Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays only from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Oxbow Public Market in Napa, California
The Napa Valley is beloved for its majestic scenery and abundant vineyards. One lesser-known treasure of Napa, California is the Oxbow Public Market. This public market was opened in 2007, and it spans 40,000 square feet. You can find Northern California delights like treats from eateries such as Kara’s Cupcakes, a staple of the Bay Area. Also, one part of market where most people stop is the Oxbow Wine Market & Wine Bar, where you can enjoy full wine tastings and buy bottles of wine. The Oxbow public Market is open Mondays through Saturdays all throughout the year, with many shops open seven days per week. Hours are from 7:30 a.m. until 9:30 p.m.
Union Square Greenmarket in New York City
When most people think of New York City, they imagine a big city without a lot of greenery or small town vibes. And yet, the island of Manhattan is an incredibly diverse place that even offers several farmers’ markets. The best of these is the Union Square Greenmarket. There are over 140 stands that serve up fresh produce, baked goods, and preserves. As its name suggests, it’s held in Union Square, and it is open on Mondays all throughout the year from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Finally, while these farmers’ markets are the cream of the crop, you can find high quality markets all across America. Be sure to explore the farmers’ markets in any area that you’re considering as a future place to live. Take the time to see what food is offered, how it’s presented, and what sort of community is celebrated at the market. You will likely soon find that the heart of many towns are the markets where people from all walks of life meet and spend time together.
