Parkesdale Farm Market: Florida’s Best Strawberry Stop

If there’s one place in Florida that deserves a sweet spot on your travel itinerary, it’s Parkesdale Farm Market in Plant City, Florida. Known far and wide for serving up the most delicious strawberry shortcake, this family-run farm market is more than just a pit stop—it’s a Florida travel destination in its own right! Whether you’re a food lover, a strawberry enthusiast, or just someone looking for a unique experience in the Sunshine State, Parkesdale Market is the place to be.

A Berry Sweet Legacy at Parkesdale Farms.

Nestled in the heart of Plant City, the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, Parkesdale Farm Market has been a Florida staple since 1956. What started as a small farm market family business has grown into the largest strawberry and citrus market in the state. 

Despite its growth, Parkesdale has kept its charm, welcoming visitors with open arms and serving up fresh, locally grown Florida strawberries with a smile.

The World-Famous Strawberry Shortcake.

Let’s cut straight to the good stuff—the legendary strawberry shortcake. If there’s one thing you must order at Parkesdale, it’s this masterpiece of a dessert.

Served seasonally from January to mid-April, this shortcake isn’t just a treat; it’s a Florida tradition. Imagine this: juicy, sun-ripened strawberries, grown right in Plant City, piled high over a soft, fluffy angel food cake and topped with a mountain of freshly whipped cream. 

For an extra indulgent twist, you can even add vanilla ice cream to take it to the next level. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will have you coming back year after year.

More Than Just Shortcake.

While Parkesdale’s strawberry shortcake steals the show, the market offers a variety of other treats that are just as irresistible. Here’s what else you can expect:

• Strawberry Milkshake – Thick, creamy, dreamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, these shakes are a year-round favorite.
• Fresh Produce – From juicy oranges to ripe avocados, Parkesdale has some of the highest quality fruits and fresh vegetables around. Did we mention most are locally grown?!
• Homemade Jams and Jellies – Take a piece of Parkesdale home with their famous strawberry jam or try something new like orange marmalade or strawberry syrup to top Sunday Morning pancakes!
• Tropical Plants, Veggie Starts, and Flowers – Wander their vibrant garden center for a beautiful addition to your home or garden. We love to grab a couple of hard-to-find herbs to add to our kitchen garden.

The Famous Strawberry Throne.

What’s a visit to Parkesdale without a photo op? One of the most iconic attractions at the market is the Strawberry Throne. This larger-than-life chair is where visitors pose like royalty, often donning a crown and holding a scepter (or a strawberry shortcake instead). 

It’s a must-do for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike—it’s the perfect INSTAGRAMMABLE pic!

A Florida Family-Friendly Destination.

The famous Parkesdale Farm Market isn’t just a place to grab the best dessert ever—it’s an experience for the whole family. The open-air seating area is perfect for enjoying a leisurely afternoon under the Florida sunshine. 

With its friendly atmosphere and nostalgic charm, this market is a throwback to old Florida, where good food and great company come first.

How to Plan Your Visit to This Central Florida Hidden Gem.

Ready to taste Florida’s best strawberry shortcake? Here’s what you need to know before you go:

• Location: 3702 W. Baker Street., Plant City, FL 33563 Phone:813-752-0502
• Seasonal Hours: Open daily from November to March (9 AM – 6 PM); Open Wednesday – Sunday from April to October (9 AM – 6 PM)
• Strawberry Shortcake Season: January to mid-April

Since strawberry season is peak time, expect long lines—but don’t worry, the wait is well worth it! We promise!

Nearby Attractions in Plant City, Florida.

Make a day of your visit to Plant City by checking out these nearby spots:

• Florida Strawberry Festival – Held annually in March, this festival celebrates everything strawberry with carnival rides, live entertainment, and plenty of delicious treats. like strawberry pizza, strawberry cookies, and of course, strawberry shortcake!
• Keel & Curley Winery – Sample Florida’s best fruit wines, including their signature strawberry wine.
• Dinosaur World – A fun stop for families, this park features life-sized dinosaur replicas and fossil digs for kids.

Why Parkesdale Farm Market is a Must-Visit.

If you’re looking for authentic Florida flavors, friendly faces, and a sweet escape from the ordinary, Parkesdale Farm Market is the place to be. Whether you’re visiting for the best strawberry shortcake in Florida, a refreshing milkshake, or just to soak in the old-Florida charm, one thing is for sure—you’ll leave with a full heart and an even fuller stomach!

So next time you’re traveling through Central Florida, make sure to add Parkesdale Farm Market to your road trip itinerary. Your taste buds will thank you. Happy Wandering!