Many farmers-market aficionados will claim their city’s variety of vendors is the best. But which events are truly worth traveling across state lines to check out? To identify the best farmers markets, we started with this study of the top cities for farmers markets, conducted by Empire Today. The results are based on a number of factors, including each location’s walkability score, the average weather in April, the number of farmers markets per 100,000 people, and the affordability rating. They even considered whether a farmers market accepts credit cards. Of course, this study only identifies the cities that are the best hosts for farmers markets. Its findings don’t necessarily reflect which ones have the best vendors or atmosphere. So we did our own research to find the best farmers markets in the study’s top five cities. They’re conveniently spread across several regions of the country, so you can plan a trip to one of these favorites, whether you’re on the west coast, east coast, or somewhere in-between.
5. Richmond, VA
Residents of Richmond have more than their fair share of farmers markets to choose from—almost any day of the week. For us, one rises to the top: the South of the James Market, which runs every Sunday, all year long. With a rotating cast of vendors, this market (which is located in a beautiful park) features a variety of local businesses offering goods outside the expected fruits and veggies. Pop by the Polpetti Italian Market stand for fresh pasta, or visit My Empanada to try their Colombian creations.
4. Tucson, AZ
This city scored high thanks to its market-friendly weather—on average Tuscon sees less than half an inch of rain in April. Pair sunshine with an incredible mountain view, and you have the perfect Sunday morning at the Heirloom Farmers Market in Rillito Park. It’s the city’s largest year-round market and has a permanent space with an entertainment circle, restrooms, and three shaded pavilions (for days when the Arizona sun feels scorching). Be sure to catch the Taste of the Market event every weekend, which teaches shoppers about the local produce they’re buying.
3. El Paso, TX
Everything is bigger in Texas—and apparently cheaper, too. According to the Empire Today study, the average price of produce in El Paso was one of the lowest of all 100 surveyed cities. The El Paso Downtown Artist and Farmers Market calls itself an artisan market, with just as much focus on the arts and entertainment as food. Reviewers rave about the variety of products, particularly the vegan options.
2. Madison, WI
Madison is putting Midwest farmers markets on the map, thanks to its density of markets and the widespread acceptance of credit cards. The Dane County Farmers’ Market in the heart of the city is buzzing every Wednesday and Saturday, mid-April through November. While you’re there, be sure to indulge in real Wisconsin cheese curds from the Murphy Farms stand, which is just one of roughly 275 vendors at the Dane County market.
1. Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., has the highest number of farmers markets per capita of any city, according to the Empire Today study, with an average of 8.2 per 100,000 people. In the Capitol Hill neighborhood, make a trip to the Eastern Market. Founded in 1873, this massive event has several points of interest, including the South Hall Market, which peddles fresh produce, meat, pastries, and cheese Tuesday through Sunday. The outdoor open-air venue hosts even more food and craft vendors on the weekends.
