Fall is the perfect season to head out with family and friends to experience the joy of apple picking. Whether you’re looking for fresh apples to bake pies, sip cider, or simply enjoy a day outdoors, these top apple-picking farms across the United States offer everything from stunning landscapes to family-friendly activities. Let’s explore the five best orchards to visit this season!
1. Masker Orchards – Warwick, New York
Nestled in the picturesque Hudson Valley, Masker Orchards has been a favorite destination for apple picking since 1913. With over 14 varieties of apples spread across 200 acres, including McIntosh, Empire, and Cortland, this orchard offers a classic pick-your-own experience. Visitors are greeted with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it a beautiful place to spend a fall day.
Aside from picking apples, families can enjoy pony rides, a family-fun area, and the farm’s country store, which is stocked with fresh cider and apple cider donuts. The drive through the scenic Hudson Valley alone is worth the trip.
- Season: September – October
- Website: Masker Orchards
2. Honey Pot Hill Orchards – Stow, Massachusetts
Located in the heart of Massachusetts, Honey Pot Hill Orchards is one of the most beloved apple orchards in the state, boasting over 80 acres of apple trees. Known for its crisp, delicious apples, Honey Pot offers more than just McIntosh and Honeycrisp. The orchard also features family activities like hayrides, a hedge maze, and farm animals.
Visitors can indulge in fresh cider donuts and pies from the farm store. It’s the perfect stop for families looking to enjoy traditional New England apple picking in a serene, charming setting.
- Season: Mid-August – Late October
- Website: Honey Pot Hill Orchards
3. Sky Top Orchard – Flat Rock, North Carolina
For those looking for breathtaking mountain views, Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock, North Carolina, is a must-visit. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this orchard offers a peaceful backdrop of nature, perfect for apple picking. Popular apple varieties include Fuji, Gala, and Pink Lady.
Sky Top is also famous for its on-site cider mill and fresh apple cider donuts, which are a hit with visitors. Families can enjoy hayrides, pet farm animals, or relax by the orchard’s picturesque pond.
- Season: Late August – Early November
- Website: Sky Top Orchard
4. Apple Holler – Sturtevant, Wisconsin
Apple Holler is one of Wisconsin’s best apple orchards, offering a variety of more than 30 types of apples, including popular choices like Honeycrisp and Jonathan. In addition to apple picking, Apple Holler offers a full farm experience, complete with hayrides, a children’s corn maze, and seasonal activities like pumpkin picking.
The orchard’s country store and seasonal restaurant serve up apple-inspired dishes, including pies, fresh-pressed cider, and savory apple butter.
- Season: Mid-August – October
- Website: Apple Holler
5. Johnson’s Corner Farm – Medford, New Jersey
Located just outside Philadelphia, Johnson’s Corner Farm is perfect for a weekend family outing. Visitors can hop on a hayride that takes them straight to the orchard for apple picking. The farm offers a range of apples, from Gala to Golden Delicious, ensuring a satisfying picking experience for everyone.
The farm also features a market selling homemade pies, fresh cider, and their famous apple cider donuts. Additionally, Johnson’s Corner Farm hosts activities like pumpkin picking and a corn maze, making it a full day of fun for the whole family.
- Season: September – October
- Website: Johnson’s Corner Farm
What to Expect During Your Visit
When visiting any of these farms, you’ll likely find more than just apples. Many of these locations offer family-friendly activities that turn a simple apple-picking trip into a day-long event. Here’s what you can expect:
- Variety of Apples: Different orchards offer a wide selection of apples. Some farms grow classic varieties like McIntosh and Granny Smith, while others may offer more unique types like Pink Lady or Empire.
- Hayrides: Many farms provide hayrides to take you out to the orchard, adding to the authentic farm experience.
- Farm Stores: Freshly baked pies, homemade apple butter, and cider donuts are staples at most orchard stores. Be sure to bring home a sweet treat!
- Additional Activities: Besides apple picking, many orchards offer corn mazes, pumpkin patches, petting zoos, and other activities, making them perfect for families.
FAQs:
1. When is the best time to go apple picking?
Apple picking season generally runs from late August to late October, depending on the orchard and the variety of apples.
2. What should I bring for apple picking?
Bring comfortable shoes, a bag or basket (some orchards provide them), and check the orchard’s website for any specific rules or COVID-19 guidelines.
3. Are hayrides included at these farms?
Yes, most farms, including Johnson’s Corner Farm and Apple Holler, offer hayrides to the apple orchards.
4. Do these orchards sell apple cider donuts?
Yes! Many orchards, like Honey Pot Hill Orchards and Sky Top Orchard, are known for their delicious fresh-pressed cider and apple cider donuts.
5. Can I bring my dog to these farms?
Policies vary by farm. Be sure to check the farm’s website beforehand to see if dogs are allowed.
