FAQs
Always check our business hours for updates before coming out to the orchard. Occasionally we must close on a day the public expects us to be open, due to weather, muddy fields after a late watering day, or having to wait for more of the fruit to ripen.
Here are four ways to get business-hours updates:
- On the website, view the Business Hours section of the location page you plan to visit (updated as changes occur)
- Check our Facebook page (updated as changes occur)
- Subscribe to our Email blast (sent weekly but comes TO you, don't have to remember to check, and keeps you in the loop)
- Call our update line at (925) 698-7459 - NOT IN SERVICE UNTIL MAY 2023 (status greeting updated daily during peak times)
Planning your visit
Do we need to make a reservation?
No. We don’t take reservations. First come, first served.
What do we bring to put the cherries in?
We provide the bag; this is what you'll use to take home your fruit. However, we highly encourage you to bring your own buckets/pails because the bags full of fruit get heavy and awkward to hold and continue to fill.
Also, if you’ll be in the Brentwood area for several hours after your u-pick experience, you may want to bring a cooler/ice chest to place your fruit. Or at least a blanket or some beach towels to cover your fruit in the back seat while in the hot car (don't place in the trunk)
What are your hours?
In general, our orchards are open for only 4-6 weeks a year, starting in May of each year. Typical business hours once we are open for the season: (subject to change)
Wednesday through Friday: 8:30 am to 2 pm
Saturday & Sunday: 8:30 am to 3 pm
Mondays/Tuesdays: Closed
Is there a picnic area we can use?
No, we do not allow picnics on our grounds. However Brentwood has many fine parks where you can picnic. Click here for a map of Brentwood parks.
Can we bring pets, like our family dog?
No. Only Service dogs in harnesses with registration cards are allowed to enter the orchard. Therapy dogs and other animals are not allowed in the orchard.
Logistics
Where are you located?
There are maps at the bottom of each location page.
What should I know to prep for a visit to pick fruit?
- Check our business hours to confirm we’ll be open.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking over the uneven orchard grounds
- Read all these FAQs!
Are there any items that are restricted from the orchard?
The following items are restricted. You'll need to leave these at the front gate, or place them in your car.
- Chairs, Blankets, Mats
- Bags, tupperware, strainers/colanders, napkins, paper towels, scissors
- Food, drinking water in containers larger than 16 oz
- Ice chests, coolers
- Backpacks and strollers
Do you have restrooms?
Yes, we have port-a-potties available.
Costs
Is there a fee to get in, or for parking?
No fee to get in. Free ample parking.
How much does the fruit cost?
We charge by the pound. In the past, we’ve charged $3-4.50/lb. We will post the cost on the individual location pages as we get closer to opening day. We weigh it on our scale in the plastic bag given to you when you arrive. Only pick what you can pay for please!
Which payment methods do you accept?
Cash only. We used to accept credit/debit cards via our square reader, but that got too hard with connectivity out in the field, so back to cash only. Click here for a list of nearby ATM machines.
About our orchard
What kinds of fruit do you have?
There are several varieties of cherries at our Payne Ave location, and white peaches and white nectarines at our Concord Ave location.
Are there ladders?
Yes, ladders are placed throughout the orchard. If you need help moving one, please ask for assistance.
Are you a member of Harvest Time?
What is Harvest Time?
Mike's U-Pick is a proud member of 'Harvest Time in Brentwood". Harvest Time has a free phone app you can download to help you navigate Brentwood's wonderful produce stands. You can find it at the Google Android Play Store, or Apple iTunes store.
Tips for Safety & Comfort
- It can get very warm in Brentwood in May/June, plan to arrive early if you are susceptible to the heat.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; the orchard grounds are uneven.
- Bring 16oz bottled water to drink to avoid getting dehydrated.
- Bring sunscreen.
- Do not allow children (or adults) to climb the trees; the limbs may break, damaging the tree, and possibly injuring you or your child. We provide ladders.