Crisp air, vibrant leaves, and the irresistible aroma of ripe apples—it’s fall, and that means the apple-picking season is in full swing!
But with so many orchards scattered across the country, how do you choose the best spot for your perfect fall day out?
We’ve rounded up the top apple-picking spots across America where you can enjoy not just the fruit but the full fall experience.
1. Applecrest Farm Orchards - Hampton Falls, New Hampshire
Applecrest Farm Orchards, established in 1913, is the oldest and largest apple orchard in New Hampshire.
This family-run farm offers a wide range of apple varieties for picking, as well as a host of seasonal activities.
Visitors can enjoy live music, hayrides, and fresh farm-to-table produce at their bistro and farm market.
With its rich history and commitment to sustainable farming, Applecrest provides an authentic New England apple-picking experience.
2. Sky Top Orchard - Flat Rock, North Carolina
Sky Top Orchard, established in 1967, is a family-owned farm located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Initially a commercial orchard, it transitioned to U-pick to offer visitors a more authentic apple-picking experience.
In addition to apple picking, Sky Top offers activities such as hayrides, farm animal visits, and an apple cannon, making it a fun destination for families.
The orchard is also famous for its delicious apple cider donuts, which visitors rave about.
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3. Honey Pot Hill Orchards - Stow, Massachusetts
Founded in 1926, Honey Pot Hill Orchards is deeply woven into the history of Stow, Massachusetts.
Originally a 70-acre farm, it has grown into a beloved fall destination thanks to four generations of the Martin family.
Today, Andrew and Chelcie Martin continue to run the orchard, offering a variety of apples for picking, including early varieties like Ginger Golds and Gravenstein.
The farm also features hand-pressed apple cider and freshly made donuts, along with their new hard cider, which is made on-site.
4. Los Rios Rancho - Oak Glen, California
For those on the West Coast, Los Rios Rancho in Oak Glen, California, is a historic apple farm that offers a unique apple-picking experience.
Surrounded by the stunning San Bernardino Mountains, this orchard grows over 30 different apple varieties, including heirloom types like Arkansas Black.
In addition to apple picking, visitors can press their cider, explore hiking trails, and enjoy a picnic with farm-fresh produce. It’s a perfect blend of nature and nostalgia.
5. Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards - LaFayette, New York
Voted the best apple orchard in the U.S. several times, Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards in upstate New York is a top destination for apple lovers.
This orchard, which dates back to 1911, is known for its premium apple varieties, including the signature SnapDragon and RubyFrost.
Besides apple picking, Beak & Skiff offers a variety of activities such as hard cider tasting, live music, and even a treehouse playground for kids. It’s an ideal spot for both relaxation and family fun.
Combine your apple-picking adventure with a visit to one of these charming small towns, perfect for a fall weekend trip.
6. Kiyokawa Family Orchards - Parkdale, Oregon
Located in the scenic Hood River Valley, Kiyokawa Family Orchards offers stunning views of Mount Hood along with its extensive apple orchards.
This family-owned farm grows over 100 varieties of apples, including rare types like the Esopus Spitzenburg, which is said to be Thomas Jefferson’s favorite.
The orchard also offers U-pick pears and Asian pears, making it a unique destination for fruit lovers.
The beautiful setting and diverse selection make Kiyokawa a standout in the Pacific Northwest.
7. Carter Mountain Orchard - Charlottesville, Virginia
Perched on a mountaintop overlooking Charlottesville, Carter Mountain Orchard offers not only delicious apples but also some of the best views in Virginia.
This orchard is known for its juicy Fuji and Honeycrisp apples, which are perfect for both eating fresh and baking.
Visitors can also enjoy warm apple cider donuts, browse the farm market, or sip on a glass of wine from the on-site vineyard. It’s a top spot for a relaxing fall day trip in the heart of Virginia.
8. Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill - Armada, Michigan
Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill is a Michigan favorite, offering a wide range of apple varieties and fall activities.
This sprawling farm has been family-owned since 1946 and is famous for its pick-your-own apples, cider mill, and hard cider tasting room.
Blake’s also hosts a variety of seasonal events, including a Halloween festival with haunted hayrides and a corn maze.
With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, Blake’s is a must-visit for anyone in the Midwest.
For a full New England fall experience, explore these 21 stunning foliage trips you need to take.
9. Silverman’s Farm - Easton, Connecticut
Silverman’s Farm in Easton, Connecticut, is a charming orchard that offers a peaceful escape from city life.
Known for its friendly atmosphere and wide selection of apples, including Empire and Jonagold, Silverman’s is a great place to spend a fall afternoon.
The farm also features a petting zoo, tractor rides, and a farm market stocked with fresh pies and local honey. It’s a perfect destination for a relaxing day with family or friends.
10. Lyman Orchards - Middlefield, Connecticut
One of Connecticut’s most beloved apple orchards, Lyman Orchards, has been in operation since 1741, making it one of the oldest family-run farms in the United States.
Visitors can pick from a wide variety of apples, including Ginger Gold, Lady Pink, Spencer, and Cameo.
The orchard also offers a championship golf course, a farm store with fresh-baked goods, and a sunflower maze in late summer.
Lyman Orchards combines history, beauty, and delicious apples in one unforgettable experience.
11. Apple Annie’s Orchard - Willcox, Arizona
Located in southern Arizona, Apple Annie’s Orchard is known for its vast selection of apples, including Granny Smith, Fuji, and Golden Delicious varieties.
This family-run orchard offers a unique apple-picking experience in the desert, with U-pick options and a country store filled with homemade pies, apple cider, and other farm-fresh treats.
In the fall, visitors can enjoy their corn maze and pumpkin patch, making it a perfect seasonal destination.
If you love the atmosphere of fall festivals, here are 15 harvest festivals that you won’t want to miss this season.
12. Weston Red Barn Farm - Weston, Missouri
Weston Red Barn Farm provides a charming, rustic apple-picking experience in Missouri.
This farm not only offers a variety of apples but also a range of family-friendly activities, including hayrides, farm animal petting, and a pumpkin patch.
The farm's traditional atmosphere is perfect for a fall outing, where visitors can pick apples while enjoying scenic views of the countryside.
Get Ready for an Apple-Picking Adventure!
Exploring America’s best apple orchards is the perfect way to celebrate the fall season.
Each location offers a unique charm, from fresh apples to delightful seasonal activities like hayrides and corn mazes.
Spend the day outdoors, savoring the crisp air, and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Pack your baskets and head out for an unforgettable autumn adventure!
For more hidden gems to explore this fall, check out these 12 underrated destinations across the U.S.