Bentley Lake Farms is Livingston County’s favorite seasonal business

LIVINGSTON COUNTY — Despite the recent cold weather (and even a little bit of snow), spring is on the way. With the warm-up comes the return of beloved seasonal businesses. 

Whether you’re looking forward to the reopening of ice cream shops, mini-golf parks, go-karts, greenhouses, roadside stands or farmers markets, there’s no shortage of vendors prepping a reopening as the temps rise. 

We won’t argue they’re all wonderful. But which is your favorite?

According to our readers, that title belongs to Bentley Lake Farms and Market in Marion Township, supplier for Howell Melon Fest. The business, which offers farm-fresh produce and fresh honey, took the top spot with 33.78% of the vote.

According to the business’ Facebook page, the brick-and-mortar market is open May-December. Seasonal roadside stands operate July-October.  

In a close second, Howell Sunday Farmers’ Market took home 27.03% of the vote. The market runs 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays from May to October on State Street and Clinton Street in downtown Howell. The market features local produce, plants, flowers and homemade goods.  

In third place, earning 22.97% of the vote, was Whistle Stop Ice Cream Caboose, located at 2385 E. Grand River Ave. in Howell. The business has not yet posted an opening date for the season, but opened in early April in 2024. 

More: Polls results: Who won best ice cream in Livingston County?

Other nominees that received votes included:

— Contact reporter Mitchell Boatman at mboatman@gannett.com.