When asking yourself about something to do near me in Sunnyvale with a group of friends or family, consider
C J Olson Apricots
Why C J Olson Apricots is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
C J Olson Apricots is a cherished Sunnyvale institution that has offered generations of Bay Area residents a taste of California’s finest fruit for over a century. What began as a humble farm stand has blossomed into a thriving, family-run business still managed by third-generation farmer Charlie Olson and his daughter Deborah, who oversees mail order and wholesale operations. The orchard prides itself on its world-class cherries and heirloom ‘California Gold’ Blenheim apricots, a special variety celebrated for its rich flavor and deep color. More than a simple fruit stand, C J Olson Apricots is a destination where community and agriculture meet. Each season, locals and visitors crowd the bright, bustling farm stand to select from baskets of sun-ripened cherries and apricots, along with gourmet products like dried fruits, jams, and chocolate-covered treats—many made right on site. The welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere cultivates a warm, neighborly vibe, making it a quintessential spot to gather with friends, enjoy a fresh-off-the-tree snack, and reminisce about Sunnyvale’s agrarian roots. While the original stand is now closed and the business has transitioned to a focus on wholesale, the Olson family’s commitment to quality and local tradition endures. Their products, especially the Blenheim apricots, continue to be celebrated at select Bay Area markets, giving aficionados a taste of summer even through the holidays, thanks to sourced Chilean cherries in the off-season[1][3]. C J Olson Apricots is more than a business—it’s a Sunnyvale legacy, inviting everyone to savor authentic California flavor and timeless community spirit.
Here's what people think of C J Olson Apricots
As of recent, C J Olson Apricots holds a 4.8-star rating based on 19 reviews.
With a stellar 4.8-star rating from over 19 reviews, C J Olson Apricots is widely recognized for its exceptional fruit quality and a nostalgic, friendly shopping experience. Reviewers consistently praise the freshness and flavor of the cherries and apricots, noting that the family’s personal touch and deep roots in the community make each visit feel special. Many appreciated the knowledgeable staff and the chance to buy heirloom fruits that are increasingly rare in the Bay Area. Positive reviews frequently highlight the Blenheim apricots as a standout, describing them as a seasonal delight that can’t be missed and a favorite for homemade pies, jams, and preserves. The atmosphere is described as authentic and welcoming, with customers often comparing their trips here to visiting a farm rather than a store. Some even marked the business as a gathering spot for friends, where conversations flow as naturally as the taste of summer. Few negative comments exist, but the main criticism pertains to the closure of the original Sunnyvale farm stand, with some longtime customers expressing disappointment at the loss of a local institution and the inability to visit the orchard in person as before. A handful of reviewers mention that the transition to wholesale and limited retail locations, such as airports and select supermarkets, means fewer opportunities to experience the orchard’s charm directly. Overall, however, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers affirming the Olson family’s lasting legacy and the continued excellence of their fruit. Even after the stand’s closure, the business maintains a devoted following who appreciate the ongoing availability of their products and the commitment to preserving California’s agricultural heritage[3]. In essence, guests remember C J Olson Apricots as a place where every fruit tells a story—of family, tradition, and the simple joy of a perfect harvest shared among friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Bruce S.
We were weekly customers of CJ Olson's before they closed their store in 2018, so we did know Deborah and her staff very well. Now they're located in Heritage Barn at Orchard Heritage Park, still in Sunnyvale. It's now cherry season, and I bought 3 lbs. of bing cherries picked from their cherry orchard in Sunnyvale last Saturday, and they are delicious as usual!! During apricot season, they have blenheim apricots which they grow. They also sell dried blenheim apricots, chocolate covered apricots, pastel chocolate covered bing cherries, plus blenheim apricot jam 😋
Ali C
Blenheim apricot season 2020 started on June 16. There is an extremely short season, they usually are available for 2 to 3 weeks only. The apricot stand is usually in the parking lot at 550 E Remington, Sunnyvale Community Center lot.
Melissa Morris
Easily Five Stars! My husband grew up in Sunnyvale and my in-laws have enjoyed Mr. Olson’s fruits for years. We were sent a package earlier this week as a gift, and I got to try them for the time. They’re absolutely delicious!
Rhonda Hurtado
Great selection of dried fruits, chocolate-covered fruit and nuts, jams, and more. Friendly service. Wonderful opportunity to shop from a local business.
Reb L
Perfect cherries! My mom was thrilled to get your cherries at Mother's Day, and now again at Christmas. She said tonight that every one of them is unblemished, firm, and ripe. And best of all...delicious! Thank you for delivering such wonderful fruit.
How to reach C J Olson Apricots
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Why C J Olson Apricots may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why Rally at C J Olson Apricots with Your Friends?
Picture this: sun-drenched orchards, rows of apricot trees heavy with sweet, golden fruit, and the scent of fresh harvest hanging in the air. C J Olson Apricots isn’t just another farm stand—this is a living, breathing piece of Northern California’s agricultural heritage, a place where every visit is an event in itself. Whether you’re seeking a casual spot to catch up with old friends, or planning a lively family outing, C J Olson Apricots delivers an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and invigorating. The 4.8-star rating from 19 reviews proves it’s more than just fruit: it’s an experience that sticks with you, bringing people together in a setting that feels natural, unpretentious, and true to its roots.
What makes C J Olson Apricots ideal for group gatherings is its blend of simplicity and authenticity. You’re not just buying fruit; you’re diving headfirst into the valley’s orchard legacy, where every bag of apricots represents generations of family care. The stand itself is an open, breezy space, inviting you to linger without feeling rushed, while the orchard backdrop offers endless opportunities for exploration, conversation, and impromptu photo shoots. The staff’s warmth and readiness to share stories (and samples!) quickly make strangers feel like friends. For those seeking a break from Silicon Valley’s hustle, or even a creative retreat with colleagues, this is a rare oasis of connection—to each other, and to the land.
Perhaps most importantly, C J Olson Apricots is a place where groups of all kinds—friends, families, even remote coworkers—can create lasting memories. There’s no entry fee, no pressure to spend, just a genuine invitation to enjoy the season’s best and the company of the people you care about. Whether it’s the laughter of friends picking together, the satisfying taste of a just-bought apricot, or the simple joy of stepping away from screens into a world rooted in real, local abundance, C J Olson Apricots is a rallying point for anyone craving connection in an increasingly digital world.
What Activities Are Available at C J Olson Apricots?
C J Olson Apricots is brimming with simple, engaging activities designed to draw people together and make the most of an afternoon in Sunnyvale’s orchard country. For starters, the u-pick orchard experience stands out, offering groups the chance to wander through rows of apricot trees, plucking ripe fruit straight from the branch. There’s something special about hunting for the perfect apricot, exchanging tips on ripeness, and filling baskets together, all while enjoying the dappled sunlight and the quiet hum of insects and birdsong. This hands-on fruit picking is not only a sensory delight but also a tangible way to connect with the food we eat and the people we share it with.
Beyond the orchard itself, the farm stand is a lively hub where shoppers—old and new—meet over bins of just-picked apricots, cherries, and other seasonal fruits. Here, you can browse gourmet condiments, preserves, and specialty snacks made from the orchard’s own harvest, making it easy to assemble a picnic or pick up edible souvenirs. Staff are always ready to offer samples, share recipes, and suggest favorites, turning every visit into a mini-adventure in local flavor. The relaxed pace and open-air environment encourage conversation, letting groups linger without the pressures of a crowded café or busy mall.
For those interested in deeper learning, C J Olson Apricots sometimes hosts informal orchard history and farming demos during peak season. These might include short talks on Blenheim apricot cultivation, the tradition of hand-picking, and how fruit is packed and shipped. These sessions are flexible and accessible, making them ideal for curious kids and adults alike. Sometimes, you can even catch a glimpse of the day’s harvest being processed behind the scenes—a chance to see the farm’s inner workings and ask questions about sustainable agriculture.
Photography enthusiasts and social media lovers will find endless inspiration in the orchard’s natural beauty. The golden apricots, vibrant green leaves, and open sky make a stunning backdrop for group photos, selfies, and candid snaps. Seasonal blooms, rustic barn elements, and colorful fruit displays add pops of color and texture, perfect for capturing memories. The calm, unhurried vibe encourages creativity, letting groups stage, snap, and share their visit without feeling rushed or self-conscious.
For families with young children, the orchard is a safe, stimulating environment where little ones can run, pick fruit, and learn about where food comes from. The tactile joy of picking and tasting fresh apricots is a simple pleasure that’s often new to city kids, making it a unique, educational outing. The lack of commercial distractions means everyone can focus on the main event: enjoying the outdoors, each other’s company, and the genuine flavors of the season. C J Olson Apricots is a place where the simple act of gathering becomes the highlight itself, not just a trip on the way to something else.
Why Is This Place Perfect for a Group Meetup?
There’s a rare sense of cohesion at C J Olson Apricots—an easygoing rhythm that naturally brings groups together, whether they’ve just met or have known each other for years. The environment is casual yet memorable, making it ideal for everything from reunions to team-building outings. Unlike city venues with time limits or reserved tables, the orchard invites guests to arrive and leave as they please, without worrying about last call or reservations. This flexibility is especially valuable for larger groups, where coordinating schedules can be tricky, or for spontaneous excursions that unfold in real time.
The physical layout of the property also works in your favor. The orchard is spacious enough for groups to spread out, whether they want to pick fruit, relax in the shade, or snap photos together. Unlike crowded restaurants or noisy bars, there’s always a quiet corner or sunny patch to claim, letting different personalities coexist comfortably. Whether your group is energetic or low-key, every type of conversation and activity is encouraged, all set to the soothing soundtrack of rustling leaves and distant birds.
Food and drink are handled simply and satisfyingly at C J Olson Apricots. There’s no complicated menu to navigate, just fresh, ripe fruit to snack on as you explore. This keeps costs low and the focus on conversation and shared experience, not on splitting a bill or arguing over what to order. Many groups bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks to pair with apricots, making it easy to stay hydrated and energized for hours outdoors. The lack of a formal café or restaurant means that dietary restrictions are simple to manage, and everyone can enjoy the outing at their own pace.
C J Olson Apricots is a place that sparks natural, genuine interaction. Without Wi-Fi or digital distractions, people are more likely to talk, laugh, and connect in person—a rare gift in our wired world. Board games, card decks, or picnic blankets can turn any spot under a tree into a lively hangout, letting groups customize their experience and make memories organically. The orchard’s authenticity—the fact that it’s a real, working farm—adds a layer of depth and meaning to any visit, making it easy to start conversations about food, sustainability, and local history.
Perhaps most importantly, the orchard’s timeless charm and laid-back attitude foster a sense of belonging, regardless of group size or makeup. Whether you’re a sprawling family, a close-knit friend group, or a team of coworkers, C J Olson Apricots welcomes you with open arms and plenty of fruit. The lack of pretension or forced agenda keeps the focus where it belongs: on quality time, shared discovery, and the simple pleasure of good company in a beautiful place.
When Is the Best Time to Visit with a Group?
Timing is everything when it comes to group outings, and C J Olson Apricots offers a calendar that’s both flexible and flavorful. The peak apricot season typically runs from late May through July, when the trees are heavy with fruit and the stand is bustling with local fans. This is the ideal window for those seeking the freshest, juiciest apricots and the most vibrant orchard atmosphere. Arriving earlier in the day is wise: the air is cooler, the fruit is untouched, and you’ll have your pick of the best spots under the trees. This also means shorter lines at the stand and more space to explore with your group.
For those who prefer a quieter, more contemplative outing, the shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) can be just as rewarding. While the main apricot harvest is over, the orchard remains a peaceful retreat, and other seasonal fruits like cherries may still be available. The pace is slower, the shade is abundant, and it’s easier to find a private nook for conversation or reflection. This makes the orchard a great off-peak option for intimate gatherings, small reunions, or team offsites that value calm over crowds.
Holiday-themed visits add yet another layer of fun. During apricot season, special events or limited-edition gourmet products may appear at the stand, giving groups a reason to celebrate and indulge. The orchard’s festive spirit—think rustic decorations, seasonal music, and themed gift baskets—makes it a memorable setting for birthdays, anniversaries, or just-because gatherings. Check local listings for pop-up events, tastings, or farm-to-table experiences that could elevate your group’s visit.
Weather-wise, sunny mornings and mild afternoons are the orchard’s bread and butter. Northern California’s Mediterranean climate means that most days are warm and dry, with cool breezes from the bay. This predictability lets you plan with confidence, and the open-air setting makes it easy to stay comfortable. A few tips: bring hats, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for early or late in the day. If rain is in the forecast, the stand may stay open, but the experience is best enjoyed under clear skies.
No matter when you visit, C J Olson Apricots offers a unique, seasonally-driven backdrop for getting together. Each visit is a little different, shaped by the ripening fruit, the changing light, and the personalities in your group. The orchard’s rhythm—tied to nature, not the clock—invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the company you keep.
What Makes C J Olson Apricots Different from Other Farm Stands?
For all the farm stands and fruit stalls dotting Northern California, C J Olson Apricots stands apart thanks to its deep roots, personal touch, and uncompromising quality. This is not a corporate operation or a trendy pop-up, but a multi-generational family endeavor, where the same hands that planted the first trees decades ago still help guide the harvest today. That continuity is palpable in every interaction, every piece of fruit, and every handwritten sign on the stand. When you visit, you’re not just a customer—you’re a guest in someone’s orchard home, welcomed with warmth and stories from the family’s long history in the valley.
Perhaps the most significant difference is the focus on heritage varieties, especially the treasured Blenheim apricot. This particular fruit, known for its intense sweetness and floral aroma, is increasingly rare in commercial orchards, but at C J Olson Apricots, it’s the star of the show. The commitment to heirloom breeds means that the fruit you pick is likely unlike anything you’ll find at a supermarket or even a typical farmers’ market. The taste, texture, and aroma are a direct link to California’s agricultural past, and the staff’s pride in the orchard’s legacy is evident in every conversation and recommendation.
Unlike many modern agritourism destinations, C J Olson Apricots has resisted the urge to turn its orchard into a theme park or Instagram backdrop. There are no zip lines, face-painting booths, or cheesy carnival games—just honest, unpretentious fruit picking, straight-from-the-farm shopping, and the chance to learn about Blenheim apricots from people who truly love them. This lack of gimmicks is a strength: it keeps the focus on the fruit, the land, and the connections you can make while you’re there. For group organizers, this means your guests will leave with a fuller understanding and respect for local agriculture, not just another selfie.
The longevity and reputation of C J Olson Apricots also set it apart. With roots stretching back over a century and a 4.8-star rating from 19 reviews, this is a place that’s earned its status as a local jewel through consistency, care, and word-of-mouth. Visitors consistently praise not just the fruit, but the atmosphere, the sense of history, and the personal attention from staff. Repeat guests often become regulars, returning year after year with friends and family in tow—a sign that the orchard’s appeal endures beyond any single harvest.
In an era of mass production and fleeting trends, C J Olson Apricots reminds us of the enduring value of slow, thoughtful agriculture—and the simple joy of sharing it with others. The orchard is a living classroom, a communal table, and a shared story, all wrapped up in a sunny afternoon in Sunnyvale. For anyone seeking an authentic, memorable, and downright delicious way to gather, C J Olson Apricots is more than just a farm stand—it’s a vital, vibrant part of California’s orchard heritage, and a perfect place to rally with your people.