The 20 Top Apple-Picking Destinations In America This Fall

Crisp air, golden orchards, and the satisfying snap of a freshly picked apple – fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the orchard.

Across the country, families and friends flock to farms where rows of trees are heavy with fruit, cider presses hum, and hayrides set the mood for the season.

These 20 apple-picking spots showcase the best of fall in America, where baskets fill quickly and memories are gathered just as sweetly as the fruit itself.

1. Honey Pot Hill Orchards (Massachusetts)

Nestled in historic Stow, this family-owned gem has been delighting visitors since 1926. The sprawling 180-acre farm offers over a dozen apple varieties to pick throughout the season.

Beyond apples, you’ll find a hedge maze, farm animals, and their famous cider donuts that locals line up for. The classic New England atmosphere makes this orchard a quintessential fall destination.

2. Applecrest Farm Orchards (New Hampshire)

As New Hampshire’s oldest and largest apple orchard, Applecrest offers a true slice of Americana. Four generations of farming expertise have created an idyllic 220-acre paradise with breathtaking views.

Weekends buzz with live music, tractor rides, and a bustling farm market.

Their farm-to-table restaurant serves up seasonal dishes with ingredients harvested just steps away, making your apple-picking adventure a full culinary experience.

3. Mercier Orchards (Georgia)

Southern charm meets apple-picking paradise at this family-owned operation running strong since 1943. Unlike many northern orchards, Mercier offers unique varieties that thrive in Georgia’s climate.

What sets this place apart is their on-site bakery, market, and hard cider production. You can literally follow your apple from tree to glass!

The mountain views of the Blue Ridge foothills provide a stunning backdrop for your picking adventure.

4. Demarest Farms (New Jersey)

Just a stone’s throw from Manhattan, this 34-acre haven offers urbanites an authentic farm experience without the long drive.

Founded in 1886, it’s a perfect example of agricultural preservation amid suburban sprawl. Weekend festivities include hayrides, a petting zoo, and their famous apple cider donuts.

The farm’s movie nights under the stars have become a local tradition, combining fresh-picked treats with outdoor entertainment for a perfect fall evening.

5. Fishkill Farms (New York)

Eco-conscious apple lovers flock to this Hudson Valley treasure for its commitment to organic and sustainable practices.

The 270-acre farm has been in the same family for over 100 years, maintaining traditions while embracing modern environmental stewardship.

The spectacular views of the Catskill Mountains create a magical backdrop for picking over 20 varieties of apples throughout the extended fall season.

6. Shelburne Orchards (Vermont)

Overlooking Lake Champlain, this picturesque orchard embodies Vermont’s agricultural heritage with stunning views that rival the apples in impressiveness.

The 60-acre family farm specializes in heirloom varieties rarely found elsewhere. Their small-batch brandy distillery creates apple-based spirits worth sampling after your picking adventure.

The laid-back atmosphere encourages visitors to bring picnics and spend the day enjoying the crisp mountain air and spectacular fall colors Vermont is famous for.

7. Poverty Lane Orchards (New Hampshire)

Serious apple aficionados make pilgrimages to this unique orchard specializing in rare and unusual varieties.

Unlike commercial operations, Poverty Lane focuses on preserving heritage apples with extraordinary flavors you simply can’t find in stores.

Their Farnum Hill Ciders have earned national acclaim from beverage experts.

The no-frills approach puts the spotlight squarely on the incredible diversity of apples – from sweet to spicy, tiny to massive – making this a true apple connoisseur’s paradise.

8. Apple Dave’s Orchards & Distillery (New York)

What began as a humble apple farm has evolved into a complete autumn entertainment destination under the watchful eye of founder “Apple Dave” Hull.

The spectacular views of the Warwick Valley create postcard-perfect backdrops for family photos. Their on-site distillery produces apple vodka and bourbon that attract spirits enthusiasts.

9. Terhune Orchards (New Jersey)

Family-owned for generations, this Princeton-area farm combines traditional apple picking with wine tasting for a sophisticated twist.

Their 200+ acres include 35 apple varieties ripening in succession from August through October.

Children delight in the farm animals and play areas while adults can sample award-winning wines made from estate-grown fruit.

10. Solebury Orchards (Pennsylvania)

Hidden in Bucks County’s rolling hills, this peaceful orchard offers a more intimate picking experience away from the crowds.

The meticulous rows of dwarf apple trees make picking accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. Their fresh-pressed cider has achieved legendary status among locals.

11. Sky Top Orchard (North Carolina)

Perched atop Mount McAlpine, this aptly-named orchard offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that rival its impressive apple selection.

The 100-acre farm features 22 varieties and countless Instagram-worthy spots. Kids gravitate to the bamboo forest, playground, and friendly farm animals.

Their apple cider donuts consistently rank among the best in the South, making them a mandatory treat after filling your picking basket with mountain-grown apples in this slice of Appalachian paradise.

12. Stribling Orchard (Virginia)

Six generations of family farming expertise have created this 200-year-old orchard in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The historic property features original 1700s buildings alongside modern amenities for today’s visitors. Towering old-growth apple trees create a magical canopy to wander beneath.

13. Weston’s Antique Apples (Wisconsin)

Apple history comes alive at this living museum orchard preserving over 700 rare and antique varieties – some dating back centuries.

Each apple tells a story of American agricultural heritage that owner Ken Weston eagerly shares with visitors.

14. Apple Jack Orchards (Minnesota)

Midwestern hospitality shines at this family-friendly destination that transforms apple picking into an all-day adventure.

Beyond the extensive orchards, you’ll find a corn maze, apple cannon (yes, you can shoot apples!), and wagon rides.

The orchard’s play areas and activities make it particularly popular for families with young children, while adults appreciate the craft hard cider sampling and relaxed country atmosphere just an hour from Minneapolis.

15. Aamodt’s Apple Farm (Minnesota)

Scandinavian heritage influences this charming orchard where picking apples is just the beginning of your Nordic-inspired adventure.

The picturesque property along the St. Croix River Valley has been nurturing apple trees since 1948. Their partnership with Saint Croix Vineyards adds wine tasting to the experience.

16. Mt View Orchards (Oregon)

Against the majestic backdrop of Mount Hood, this female-owned orchard combines apple picking with cider and wine tasting for the ultimate Oregon experience.

The orchard’s commitment to regenerative agriculture means your apple-picking adventure supports environmental stewardship while providing an unforgettable day among some of the Pacific Northwest’s most spectacular scenery.

17. Los Rios Rancho (California)

Southern California’s largest apple farm brings mountain charm to the sunshine state in historic Oak Glen.

At 4,200 feet elevation, this mile-high orchard offers a true fall experience complete with changing leaves rare in other parts of Southern California.

Their pressing demonstrations show how fresh cider is made the old-fashioned way.

The botanical gardens and nature trails provide perfect breaks between picking sessions, while their country store’s apple butter and preserves let you take home the flavors of California’s unique apple country.

18. Willowbrook Apple Farm (California)

Vintage charm defines this boutique orchard specializing in heirloom Stayman Winesap apples grown on century-old trees.

Unlike massive commercial operations, this intimate farm offers a personalized experience where owners are often the ones guiding your visit.

The small scale creates a magical atmosphere where you can truly connect with the orchard’s history and the growing process, making it perfect for those seeking authenticity over entertainment.

19. Clearview Orchards (California)

Organic certification and ocean views make this Santa Cruz Mountains orchard truly special.

The family-run farm focuses on sustainable practices, growing apples without synthetic pesticides just miles from the Pacific Ocean. Coastal fog creates ideal conditions for their Gala and Honeycrisp apples.

The intimate setting means personal attention from the farmers themselves, who eagerly share their organic growing methods.