There’s something undeniably charming about the ritual of apple picking. As autumn paints the landscape in warm hues, orchards across the United States burst with the promise of crisp, juicy apples ripe for the picking.
Whether you’re a seasoned picker or a first-timer, the experience of plucking a perfect apple straight from the tree is hard to beat. So, grab your basket and join us as we explore 15 of the best places to go apple picking in the U.S.
Apple Hill, Placerville, California
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Apple Hill isn’t just an orchard—it’s an experience. With over 50 farms spread across rolling hills, it’s a veritable apple lover’s paradise.
From classic Red Delicious to the more exotic Arkansas Black, there’s an apple for every palate. Don’t miss the apple cider donuts; they’re like autumn distilled into a sugary ring of deliciousness.
Applecrest Farm, Hampton Falls, New Hampshire
As New England’s oldest and largest apple orchard, Applecrest Farm has been serving bushels of memories since 1913. With over 40 varieties of apples, including heirloom types, it’s like stepping into a living museum of apple history.
Their apple butter is the stuff of legends—spread it on warm toast and enjoy the taste!
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Mercier Orchards, Blue Ridge, Georgia
Who says great apple picking is limited to the North? Mercier Orchards proves that the South knows its apples too. This family-owned operation has been around since 1943 and offers a unique U-pick tractor tour.
It’s like a hayride, with the bonus of apple-grabbing opportunities. Their fried apple pies are pure Southern comfort in pastry form.
Stribling Orchard, Markham, Virginia
Steeped in history (we’re talking pre-Revolutionary War), Stribling Orchard offers a picturesque setting in the heart of Virginia’s horse country. The Stribling family has been tending these trees for six generations—that’s a lot of apple expertise!
Don’t leave without trying their apple butter BBQ sauce; it’s an unexpected twist that’ll make your taste buds very happy.
Honey Pot Hill Orchards, Stow, Massachusetts
Just an hour from Boston, Honey Pot Hill is the perfect escape from city life. With classic New England charm and over 200 acres of fruit trees, it’s a picker’s dream.
Their hedge maze is a fun distraction—just don’t get so lost that you forget about the apples! And if you’re feeling brave, try their ‘Big Apple’—a massive 1.5-pound behemoth that’s perfect for sharing.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards, Lafayette, New York
More than just an orchard, Beak & Skiff is an apple empire. With a distillery, brewery, and cafe on-site, you could spend a whole weekend here without running out of apple-themed activities.
Their 1911 cider is a local favorite—it’s like autumn in a glass, with a kick. Don’t miss the panoramic views from Apple Hill; on a clear day, you can see for miles.
Terhune Orchards, Princeton, New Jersey
Who says you can’t mix high-brow and down-home? Just a stone’s throw from Princeton University, Terhune Orchards offers a rustic counterpoint to Ivy League sophistication.
Their Apple Day Fall Festivals are legendary, featuring everything from pie-eating contests to pony rides. Try their apple salsa for a unique twist on a classic condiment— surprisingly addictive.
Sky Top Orchard, Flat Rock, North Carolina
Perched atop Mount McAlpine, Sky Top offers breathtaking views along with its apples. With 22 varieties and a bamboo forest (yes, you read that right), it’s an unexpected blend of traditional and exotic.
Their apple cider slushies are a must-try—imagine a frosty, apple-y hug for your taste buds.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
County Line Orchard, Hobart, Indiana
Just an hour from Chicago, County Line Orchard is a Midwestern treasure. Their u-pick apples are just the beginning—get lost in the corn maze, take a ride on the vintage tractor, or try your hand at beekeeping.
Their apple cinnamon donuts are worth the trip alone.
Fishkill Farms, Hopewell Junction, New York
A stone’s throw from NYC, Fishkill Farms offers a perfect day trip for city dwellers craving rural charm. Their eco-certified orchard proves that sustainable farming and delicious apples go hand in hand.
Don’t miss their Treasury Cider, made on-site—it’s like the sophisticated cousin of the apple juice you loved as a kid.
Lordan’s Orchard, Acushnet, Massachusetts
This no-frills orchard in southeastern Massachusetts is all about the apples. Family-owned since 1918, Lordan’s offers a genuine picking experience without the touristy bells and whistles.
Their apple fritters are a local secret—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and utterly irresistible.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Applewood Orchard, Warwick, New York
Located in the picturesque Hudson Valley, Applewood is like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting. Their Eco-Certified Orchard status means you can munch on apples straight from the tree without worry.
Try their apple wood-fired pizza—it’s an unexpected but delightful way to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Outhouse Orchards, North Salem, New York
Don’t let the name fool you—Outhouse Orchards is a classy joint. Just an hour north of NYC, it offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and accessibility. Their apple cider donuts are the stuff of legend, often selling out before noon.
Arrive early and caffeinate with their apple cider coffee.
Kiyokawa Family Orchards, Parkdale, Oregon
With the majestic Mount Hood as a backdrop, Kiyokawa offers some of the most scenic apple picking in the country. Their Asian pears are a unique treat—imagine the lovechild of an apple and a pear, and you’re on the right track.
Don’t leave without trying their apple-pear butter; it’s a spread that’ll make your morning toast sing.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Willowbrook Apple Farm, Oak Glen, California
Rounding out our list is this charming orchard in Southern California’s apple country. Willowbrook specializes in heirloom apples, offering varieties you won’t find in your nearby supermarket.
Their apple pressing demonstrations are educational and entertaining— like a science lesson and a taste test rolled into one.
Harvesting Memories: Your Apple Picking Journey Begins
As we wrap up our orchard odyssey, it’s clear that apple picking is more than just a fall activity—it’s a celebration of nature’s bounty, a nod to agricultural traditions, and a delicious way to make memories.
Each of these 15 locations offers its own unique flavor (pun intended) of the apple-picking experience, from historic New England farms to California’s sun-kissed orchards.
More from Travel Pug
- 20 Mind-Blowing Things You Probably Didn’t Know You Could Do in the U.S.
- The Best Cruise Ship Experiences for U.S. Citizens
- The Best U.S Travel Destinations for Golf Lovers
- The 25 Most Dangerous Cities in the World (Exercise Caution if Travelling There)
- The Best Fall Foliage Spots in New England (Must-See Places)
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.