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As the air turns crisp and leaves shift into brilliant autumn hues, families flock to orchards for one of the season’s most beloved activities: apple picking. Whether you’re shopping for pie apples, stocking up for snacks, or simply enjoying a day outdoors, visiting a top orchard is a perfect fall escape. If you’re traveling this month, make time to stop at one of these standout apple-picking destinations and savor the harvest. -
Stribling Orchard in Markham, Virginia, consistently ranks among the nation’s best. Family-owned for two centuries, the orchard cultivates several apple varieties and features historic buildings dating to the 1700s. Visitors can combine apple picking with scenic drives in the Blue Ridge Mountains, pumpkin picking, or visiting on-site farm animals for a full fall experience.
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Massachusetts offers many excellent apple-picking destinations. Bear Swamp Orchard is popular for craft hard ciders, while Honey Pot Hill Farm, on a century-old property, grows apples and other pick-your-own fruits and hosts children’s activities. Boston Hill Farm holds weekend fall festivals through late October with apple picking, live music, pumpkin patches and seasonal food options for the whole family.
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New Hampshire’s orchards deliver abundant pick-your-own options. Applecrest Farm Orchards pairs apple picking with farm-to-table dining, while Poverty Lane Orchards recreates the feel of early 20th-century farming. Alyson’s Orchard spans more than 50 acres and welcomes visitors daily, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed afternoon among the trees.
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In North Carolina, Sky Top Orchard is a favorite for families. The orchard’s 60 acres offer hayrides, farm animals and hiking trails in addition to apple picking. The Orchard at Altapass, located on the Eastern Continental Divide, combines natural beauty with a commitment to preserving regional history, offering a memorable outing for visitors of all ages.
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Washington State produces more than half of the nation’s apples, making it a prime destination for pick-your-own fun. Johnson Orchards welcomes visitors to hand-select fresh fruit and often offers baked goods like pies. Bellewood Acres boasts roughly 25,000 trees plus on-site amenities such as a train ride, restaurant, bakery and distillery tasting bar for a full farm visit.
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Minnesota’s orchards offer a mix of family-friendly activities and adult-focused experiences. Aamodt’s Apple Farm serves apples along with hard cider and wine, with tastings and vineyard tours available. Apple Jack Orchards focuses on children with attractions like a zip line and corn maze, while Deardorff Orchards blends tractor rides and farm animals with wine tastings for visitors of all ages.
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If your travels bring you to New York City, escape to the Hudson Valley and discover orchards outside the bustle. Fishkill Farms hosts Harvest Festival weekends through mid-October with live music, hayrides and plenty of cider donuts. Apple Dave’s and Applewood Orchards are highly regarded for apple picking and seasonal events, from pumpkin patches to family-friendly shows and activities.
