Summary: This fall apple guide features the best apple farm or farmers market in each state. It lists the best apples to bake with and our favorite fall apple recipes to prepare.
Don’t feel like reading the whole guide? Click on the section you would like to read below:
- Best Apple Farm or Farmers Market in Each State
- Ideal Apples to Bake With
- Our Favorite Apple Recipes for Fall
- Get Ready for Fall with a Pair of New Reading Glasses
Sadly, fall doesn’t last forever, and that’s why it’s important to take full advantage of what it offers before Old Man Winter comes knocking at your door. Personally, I can’t think of a better way to celebrate autumn other than picking apples at a local orchard and baking with them.
Here at ReadingGlasses.com, we take fall baking pretty seriously and we think the ingredients that go into a dish should come directly from the source - especially for fall recipes like apple pie. More importantly, we believe it’s essential to support your local community and farmers.
In this guide, you’ll find the best place to find tree-fresh apples in each state, our favorite fall apple recipes, and which apple varieties are optimal for baking.
So, if you are ready to roll up your sleeves and welcome fall with open arms, keep reading - It’s apple picking time!
Best Apple Picking Farm in Each State
While most people flock to the east coast for apple picking, you’d be pleasantly surprised to discover that orchards exist across the U.S. - including Alaska!
That said, say no to store-bought apples and head over to your local orchard or farmers market for your next fall apple recipe. Not only will you be sourcing the freshest apples on the planet, but you will also be supporting independent farmers and their families.
If spending an entire day in the orchards isn’t your idea of fun, most farms offer a menu of entertainment such as live music, breweries, distilleries, hayrides, corn mazes, haunted attractions, gift shops, and much more. Some even host petting zoos featuring the typical farm animals you would expect - goats, pigs, sheep, etc.
A handful of the farms on this list have on-site stores where you can purchase homemade goods such as fresh apple cider, jams, jellies, candies, apple-scented soaps, and other fall treats.
So, without further ado, below are the best farms and farmers markets in each state to go apple picking this fall:
Alabama | Crow Mountain Orchard
6236 Co Rd 39, Fackler, AL 35746
With over 150 acres of apples and other various fruit trees, Crow Mountain Orchard is a must-visit for anyone near Fackler, Alabama. Each year, people from all over flock to the orchard to purchase homegrown fruit. It’s not unheard of to find at least 15 varieties of apples to pick during peak season.
Apple season at Crow Mountain starts in June and runs through October. Its salesroom is open from 8 AM to 5 PM seven days a week.
Alaska | Clarks Apple Orchard
3200 Rabbit Creek Rd, Anchorage, AK 99516
When you think of Alaska, picking apples is probably the last thing to come to mind, however, Clarks Apple Orchard grows some of the finest apples in the country. They have around 200 trees with about 20 different types of apples.
Apple picking at Clark’s Apple Orchard starts late August and runs through September. They are open to the public from 10 AM to 2 PM on select Saturdays through the season. We advise calling ahead of time before making the drive.
Arizona | Apple Annie’s Orchard
2081 West Hardy Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643
The optimal elevation of the Sulphur Springs Valley in Wilcox, AZ allows Apple Annie’s Orchard to churn out corn, melons, pumpkins, and apples. Besides U-Pick apple fun, you can enjoy the gift shop, hayrides, corn mazes, and its many festivals throughout the year. No visit to Apple Annies would be complete without grabbing a famous apple-smoked burger from its Orchard grill.
Apple Annie’s Orchard offers daily U-Pick from July through September from 8 AM to 5 PM. While the farm is open all year long, it’s best to call ahead of time to confirm its operating hours.
Arkansas | Vanzant Fruit Farms
3705 AR-264, Lowell, AR 72745
Opened in 1949, Vanzant Fruit Farms is a hidden gem in the Ozarks of Arkansas. The farm offers U-Pick throughout the season. During your visit, don’t forget to check out their farm store where you can sample apple butter, jams, and more.
U-Pick apples at Vanzant Fruit Farms starts mid-August and runs through October. It is open Monday - Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM.
California | Willowbrook Apple Farm
12099 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399
One of the oldest orchards on our list, Willowbrook Apple Farm in Yucaipa, CA planted its first tree in 1910; the rest was history. While the farm has changed owners a few times over the years, the charming appeal of a family-operated orchard is still ever present. Besides U-Pick apples, the apple orchard offers wine tastings, farm animals, educational tours, and more.
Apple picking at Willowbrook typically starts mid-September and lasts through October. The farm is open Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Colorado | Ya Ya Farm & Orchard
6914 Ute Hwy, Longmont, CO 80503
Relax and enjoy the simpler things in life at Ya Ya Farm & Orchard in Colorado. Ya Ya Farm offers fun for the entire family, from apple picking to hard cider crafting workshops. The farm requires reservations for U-Pick, so be sure to contact them before planning your trip.
The orchard is open August through November from 9 AM to 3 PM on the weekends and 10 AM to 3 PM Tuesday - Friday.
Connecticut | Rogers Orchards
336 Long Bottom Rd, Southington, CT 06489
Founded in 1809, Rogers Orchards is a historical farm in Connecticut that you must visit. While they don’t offer U-Pick, you can easily purchase apples from the farm store, or you can order online and pick them up curbside. The bakery offers around 15 flavors of pie, apple cider, donuts, cookies, apple sour cream coffee cakes, and loads more.
Rogers Orchards is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM for in-store shopping and pickup.
Delaware | Fifer Orchards
1919 Allabands Mill RD, Camden Wyoming, DE 19934
This multi-generational orchard was established in 1919 by Charles Frederick Fifer. It offers various U-Pick crops throughout the year, including apples. While they have grown exponentially over the century, the farm still offers a homegrown feel.
Apple season starts in September and lasts through late October depending on the crops. Fifer Orchards requires appointments for U-Pick. You can reserve a spot Thursday - Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Florida | Farmer Mike’s Produce
26031 Morton Ave, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Beginning as a small roadside stand in Bonita Springs, Famer Mike’s Produce is now one of the top producers of fruits and vegetables in Florida. During your farm visit, enjoy U-Pick apples and fresh-cut wildflowers, all while taking in the beauty of Southwest Florida.
Farmer Mike’s Produce is open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM. You can also find them set up at local farmers’ markets throughout Florida.
Georgia | B.J. Reece Orchards
9131 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536
Want to shoot an apple cannon? Or, perhaps learn to milk a cow? At B.J. Reece Orchards in Ellijay, Georgia, you can do just that. Not only does this farm have some of the best apples in the country, but they also have some of the best entertainment around. You can buy a weekend fun pass which includes wagon rides, petting zoos, pig races, pillow jumping, zip lines, pony rides, and so much more
Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, apple picking at B.J. Reece Orchards starts late July and lasts until Halloween.
Hawaii | South Kona Fruit Stand
84-4770 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704
Sadly, Hawaii is not the place for apple picking. That said, the South Kona Fruit Stand in Captain Hook is the next best thing. They carry freshly roasted coffee, teas, jams, honey, and local produce. And, if you’re lucky, you may find an apple or two in the mix.
South Kona Fruit Stand is open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM, however, it would be best to call before you arrive as they seem to have seasonal rotating hours.
Idaho | Kelly Orchards
53 Hill Rd, Weiser, ID 83672
Nestled in the gorgeous Treasure Valley of Idaho, Kelly Orchards is a small family farm growing a variety of U-Pick fruit such as apples, peaches, and pears. Make sure to catch the breathtaking sunset while walking through its endless rows of fruit trees.
You can pick apples at Kelly Orchards starting late August through early September. Its hours are 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Saturday.
Illinois | Jonamac Orchard
19412 Shabbona Rd, Malta, IL 60150
Complete with an apple train, Jonamac is essentially the Disneyland of Apple Orchards. This fruit farm in remote Illinois is home to apple cannons, petting zoos, haunted houses, corn mazes, a cider house, and more! If you have never experienced fresh pressed apple wine or hard cider, you are in for a treat.
Pick your own apples at Jonamac Orchard begins on the last Saturday in August and ends late November. Its operating hours are Monday - Sunday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM.
Indiana | County Line Orchard
200 S County Line Rd, Hobart, IN 46342
Just a few miles from Lake Michigan, County Line Orchard offers the full U-Pick experience. You can enjoy fun activities for the entire family such as s’mores around a campfire or catching a local musician on the bandstand. No trip is complete without grabbing a bite to eat at the County Line Grill or a munching on a fresh-baked cinnamon-apple donut from the bakery.
County Line Orchard opens its farm to the public for apple picking on September 3rd and closes November 1st. It is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM with food trucks on the weekends.
Iowa | Appleberry Orchard
2469 IA-2, Donnellson, IA 52625
Appleberry Orchard is home of the Queen’s Apple - a fresh-picked apple that is sliced up, drizzled with caramel, topped with whipped cream, and covered with your choice of either Reece’s Pieces, Oreos, M&Ms, or peanuts. It also offers a petting zoo, kids play area, and other farm fun.
Apple picking at Appleberry Orchard starts September 19th and ends late October. Its hours are 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Sunday.
Kansas | Cider Hill Family Orchard
3341 N 139th St, Kansas City, KS 66109
Grab the family and head over to Cider Hill Orchard in Kansas City. Plan to make your visit a full day as the farm offers hayrides, train rides, shopping, and other fall activities. For those looking to host an event at Cider Hill, it offers an on-site event barn for weddings, anniversaries, corporate dinners, and more!
Apple picking season at Cider Hill starts in August and runs through October. You can pick apples from 9 AM to 5 PM Thursday through Saturday.
Kentucky | Haney’s Appledale Farm
8350 KY-80, Nancy, KY 42544
Starting as a roadside fruit stand dating back to the 1800s, Haney’s has grown into a Kentucky staple. The farm is cherished by the local community it serves and warmly welcomes them to the orchard for apple picking and freshly baked pie each season. Haney’s Farm spans over 450 acres and grows around 25 varieties of apples. Its farm store offers a selection of jams, jellies, salsas, gift baskets, hams, cheeses, and so much more.
Haney’s Appledale Farm is open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM (1 PM to 5 PM on Sundays).
Louisiana | Eddie Romero’s Orchard
5119 Freetown Rd, New Iberia, LA 70560
It takes genuine passion and extremely dedication to grow apples in Louisiana soil like Eddie Romero. His farm serves the town of New Iberia with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and farm-fresh eggs. This truly unique orchard is worth the stop.
Eddie Romero’s Orchard is by appointment only during the respective fruit season. Please call (337) 380-0419 for more information.
Maine | Hardy Farms Orchard
106 Church St, Hope, ME 04847
Hardy Farms is a family-owned and operated fruit farm in the heart of the beautiful Camden Hills of Maine. It specializes in U-Pick apples, blueberries, and pumpkins. You’ll want to pack a picnic before heading out as the farm doesn’t offer food. That said, it makes the visit that much more special.
While the farm doesn’t offer activities such as mazes and hayrides, it allows you to spend wholesome quality time with your family surrounded by a gorgeous landscape. Sometimes, less is truly more.
Hardy Farms Orchard opens on September 19th at 8:30 AM. It has not released its full set of operational hours to the public. If you are interested in this orchard, you will want to check its website for up-to-date information.
Maryland | Baugher’s Orchard & Market
1015 Baugher Rd, Westminster, MD 21158
Established in 1904, Baugher’s Orchard is one of a kind. Edward and Romaine Baugher purchased 60 acres of land, and after years of trial and error, developed it into what it is today. It now spans 600 acres and is an established multi-generational family business.
While visiting the farm, you can have a bite to eat at Baugher’s Restaurant or browse the Orchard Market where you will find local honey, homemade ice cream, apple treats, canning supplies, seasonal decor, and jugs of fresh-pressed apple cider.
Baugher’s offers apple picking on the weekends from August to October between 10 AM and 5 PM. The market and orchard hours vary, so be sure to check the website for updates.
Massachusetts | Carlson Orchards
115 Oak Hill Rd, Harvard, MA 01451
Carlson Orchards was established in 1936 by Walter and Eleanor Carlson. It wasn’t until the late 60s that the farm decided to focus on Apples as its principal crop. Ever since, there was no looking back. Today, it produces over 60,000 bushels of apples and 500,000 gallons of cider annually. That’s enough cider to fill around 30 average-sized swimming pools!
During your visit to Carlson Orchards, be sure to visit its on-site taproom which includes a full menu of snacks, and hard cider in a variety of flavors.
Carlon Orchards is open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM through the apple season.
Michigan | Blake Farms
71485 North Ave, Armada, MI 48005
Established in 1946, Blake’s Big Apple is the holy grail of orchards. Not only does the farm offer U-Pick apples, but it also hosts haunted attractions such as zombie paintball and spooky hayrides. If that’s not enough entertainment, you can visit Funland - a small carnival-like event with water duck races, a tricycle race track, pony rides, mazes, and even a giant straw mountain. Lastly, be sure to visit the tasting room for fresh hard cider, beer, and local fare.
Blake’s Big Apple is open from 8 AM to 5 PM for U-Pick apples, seven days a week throughout the season.
Minnesota | Pine Tree Apple Orchard
450 Apple Orchard Rd, White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Art Jacobson turned his dreams into reality when he purchased a 25-acre orchard on the shore of Pine Tree Lake in 1958. Fast forward to today, the orchard now spans over 300 acres and is home to some of the best apples in the state. The orchard is perfect for groups, families, and school tours. It has an on-site bakery with a gift shop stocked with apple treats and other fall goods.
Apple season at Pine Tree Apple Orchard starts mid-August and lasts through March. The orchard stays open seven days a week from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Mississippi | Cherry Creek Orchards
4660 MS-345, Pontotoc, MS 38863
Planted in 1980, Cherry Creek Orchard is a 123 acre urban farm producing apples, peaches, and other fruits. Imagine walking through rows of trees drooping with fragrant fruits ripe for the picking at one of the most iconic orchards in the entire state of Mississippi. Cherry Creek Orchard is open Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 5:30 PM.
Missouri | Herman’s Farm Orchard
3663 MO-94, St Charles, MO 63301
Complete with a castle playground, Herman’s Farm Orchard is the perfect place for a family outing. Enjoy its wide selection of succulent fruits, fresh vegetables, and fresh-picked native flowers. Besides fruits and vegetables, Herman’s Farm Orchard also has authentic Amish furniture available for purchase.
You can visit Herman’s Farm Orchard daily for apples starting September 1st from 9 AM to 6 PM.
Montana | Green Branch Orchard
4701 South Ave W, Missoula, MT 59804
Green Branch Orchard in Missoula, Montana is a special treat for those with little ones. The orchard has over 82 kid-height trees to ensure everyone can get in on the action. The orchard belongs to the Montana Sustainable Growers Union and is the only USDA Certified Organic U-Pick apple orchard in Missoula.
Green Branch Orchard is open only when apples are ripe and ready for picking. Typically, its hours are from 10 AM to 1 PM. Be sure to check its Facebook page for more information and daily availability.
Nebraska | Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard
4701 South Ave W, Missoula, MT 59804
Established in 1925, Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard blends in with the rolling hills of Nebraska. It offers educational tours and courses, a wine bar, nature walking trails, hayrides, and an apple barn where you can shop for assorted butters, canned goods, desserts, cider, and more.
Kimmel Orchard is open Monday through Friday from July 1st to December 23 between 9 AM and 5 PM seasonally.
Nevada | Gilcrease Orchard
7800 N Tenaya Way, Las Vegas, NV 8913
This oasis in the desert must be a mirage, right? Not quite! The Gilcrease family struck gold in the early 1900s when they purchased 900 acres of naturally artesian spring-fed land in the Las Vegas Valley. Because of a few setbacks, the orchard is now only 60 acres, however; it is preserved by the Gilcrease Orchard Foundation.
The orchard offers private educational tours, U-Pick apples, apple cider donuts, and hay mazes.
Gilcrease Orchard is open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 7 AM to 10 PM.
New Hampshire | Carter Hill Orchard
73 Carter Hill Rd, Concord, NH 03303
The soil at Carter Hill Orchard has been producing apples since the mid-1700s. During your visit, you’ll find a bakery cranking out fresh pies and other fall treats. There is even an on-site country store with fruits, and jams, and other products available for purchase.
From July 8th to October 25th, Carter Hill is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM. October 26th through December 22 the farm is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
New Jersey | Demarest Farms
244 Wiermus Rd, Hillsdale, NJ 07642
Growing some of the freshest fruits and vegetables in the entire state of New Jersey, Demarest Farms is cherished by the local community of Bergen County. It offers movie nights throughout the year and various seasonal festivities such as its annual Haunted Orchards and Orchard of Lights. Demarest Farms is open seven days a week from 8 AM to 5 PM.
New Mexico | Alary Farm
6322 Corrales Rd, Corrales, NM 87048
Just a short drive from Albuquerque and Rio Rancho, Alary Farm has been a New Mexico staple since 1879. It grows over 15 varieties of apples and produces fresh apple cider. While it does not offer U-Pick, you can purchase apples from its on-site store.
Alary Farm’s operating hours vary based on availability. Please call them at (505) 898-1204 for more information.
New York | Dr. Davies Farm
306 NY-304, Congers, NY 10920
With over 4,000 trees and 20 different apple varieties, Dr. Davies Farm is a sight to see. Enjoy hayrides through the orchard, a corn maze, or visit its food cart for freshly baked pies, donuts, and other snacks. The farm allows furry friends to visit, which is rare with orchards. They do ask you that you keep them on a 6’ leash at all times.
Apple picking at Dr. Davies Farm starts in September and is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. While reservations are highly recommended, they are not required.
North Carolina | Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill
2075 Pleasant Hill Ave, Morganton, NC 28655
Settled at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountain, Apple Hill Orchard offers gorgeous views of the Catawba River valley. It offers 18 varieties of apples for U-Pick, a farm store, and a bakery. The farm store’s shelves are stocked with fruit butters, jams, sauces, seasonal decor, soaps, and much more.
The bakery offers seasonal from-scratch items such as apple donuts, fried pies, and muffins - all paired well with a glass of warm cider on a cool fall evening.
Apple picking at Apple Hill Orchard starts mid-August and typically ends in November, or until they run out (which happens). You can visit Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5:15 PM.
North Dakota | Cottonwood Cider House
14481 25 St SE, Ayr, ND 58007
While not technically an orchard, The Cottonwood Cider House is a true farm to glass experience. It makes its cider from apples grown by Cottonwood Farms - a multi-generational family-owned operation that also happens to be certified organic by the state of North Dakota.
The tasting room is open seasonally and orchard tours are available to the public throughout the year.
Ohio | Lynd Fruit Farm
9399 Morse Rd SW, Pataskala, OH 43062
Enjoy a fall day at Lynd Fruit Farm in Ohio. With tons of activities for everyone, it makes a great stop for families. Enjoy blasting apples out of cannons, listening to live music, and shopping for seasonal decor at its farm market. Lynd Fruit Farm offers U-Pick apples on certain dates based on availability during September and October. Check the farm’s website for up-to-date information before your visit.
Oklahoma | Livesay Orchards
39232 E 231st St S, Porter, OK 74454
Oklahoma probably isn’t the first place on your list for apple picking, but if you’re in the area, you should make this a priority. Livesay Orchards offers an education experience with farm-related learning centers, games, and more. Its market is filled with an assortment of locally grown fruits and vegetables, jams, butters, salsas, and home-style canned goods.
Livesay’s Orchard is open for business seven days a week: Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 1 PM to 5 PM.
Oregon | Kiyokawa Family Orchards
5625 Hutson Dr, Mt Hood, OR 97041
The Kiyokawa Family Orchard sits in the gorgeous Hood River Valley and looks like a hand-painted masterpiece. Guarded by the jagged crest of Mt. Hood, rows of colorful fruit trees can be seen neatly strung across its gently rolling landscape. On sunny days, families can enjoy picnicking while relaxing to the sights and sounds of nature. Do not miss this one-of-a-kind apple picking adventure.
Apple season in Oregon starts in late August and runs through October. Kiyokawa is open daily for fresh fruit picking - 10 AM to 4 PM during the week and 9 AM to 5 PM on weekends.
Pennsylvania | Paulus MT. Airy Orchards
522 E Mt Airy Rd, Dillsburg, PA 17019
Celebrate the fall harvest with traditional farm fun at Paulus MT. Airy Orchards in Pennsylvania. Step back in time as It offers old-fashioned activities for the entire family; enjoy a five-acre corn maze, sweet treats from Karen’s Kitchen, tube slides, pedal karts, and so much more.
Paulus Mt. Airy Orchards is open daily: Monday through Saturday 9 AM to 7 PM and Sunday 12 PM to 6 PM.
Rhode Island | Narrow Lane Orchard
213 Narrow Ln, North Kingstown, RI 02852
With over 20 varieties of fruits to pick from, Narrow Lane Orchard makes it easy to find what you are looking for. If you find yourself not able to make it out to its farm, Narrow Lane Orchard sets up at various farmers markets throughout the state.
Apple picking at Narrow Orchards is open daily during the season from 10 AM to 5 PM.
South Carolina | Bryson’s Apple Orchard
1011 Chattooga Ridge Rd, Mountain Rest, SC 29664
Surrounded by stunning waterfalls, winding rivers, and hiking trails, Bryon’s U-Pick is one of the best orchards on this list for nature enthusiasts. It is only three miles from the Chattooga River and sits near the Blue Ridge Mountains. Bryson’s Apple Orchard offers a full U-Pick experience, plus a farm store loaded with fresh jams, jellies, canned goods, local honey, and more.
You can pick apples daily at Bryson’s Orchard starting in August up until mid-October from 9 AM to 6 PM.
South Dakota | Country Apple Orchard
27249 SD-115, Harrisburg, SD 57032
On crisp autumn days, locals flock to Country Apple Orchard to pick its ripe fruit trees. Children and adults alike can enjoy candy apples while browsing the farm store. Throughout the year, the orchard hosts various festivals, such as the Family Fun Festival during September. At the festival, you will find fall treats, bounce houses, pony rides, and live music performances.
Country Apple Orchard is open 6 days a week (closed on Friday). Visit its Facebook page for specific hours and availability.
Tennessee | Breeden’s Orchard
631 Beckwith Rd, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122
Just 30 minutes from Nashville, Breeden’s Orchard sits on gorgeous Mt. Juliet in Tennessee. While the apples are simply perfect, you’ll really want to stop in for a homemade fried pie (or 10). It hosts farmers markets with local food trucks in attendance serving up a variety of dishes throughout the year. Breeden’s Orchard is open Thursday 4 PM to 7 PM and Friday-Saturday from 8 AM to 12 PM.
Texas | Apple Valley Orchard
12340 TX-16, Llano, TX 78643
Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Apple Valley Orchard grows apples and other fruits on over 30 acres of land. Its farm stand is packed with a selection of farm-fresh products such as honey, jams, jellies, and cider. The orchard is the perfect day trip from Austin - hit the road and make it a day by exploring the back roads of Central Texas. You’ll find peach stands, historic downtowns, and hole-in-the-wall boutique stores.
For hours and availability, please call Apple Valley Orchard at (325) 247-3979.
Utah | Allred Orchards
2109 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84604
Ideal soils make the apples from Allred Orchards a step above the rest. The farm is settled on 600 acres of prime real estate in South Utah County at the base of the Wasatch Mountain Range. The climate is perfect for growing peaches, apples, cherries, and other fruit. Its farm store is located in Provo where you can purchase apples and various farm-fresh produce year-round.
From August until November, you can visit Allred Orchards for apples. The orchard store is open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Vermont | Champlain Orchards
3597 VT-74, Shoreham, VT 05770
As one of the longest continually operating farms in the state of Vermont, Champlain Orchards typically harvests around 10,000 plus bushels of apples each season. It practices sustainability by using solar to power most of its farm while also adhering to VOF or IPM organic standards. Additionally, the orchard offers family-friendly activities and a hard cider bar for the adults.
Champlain Orchards is open to the public from 9 AM to 4 PM daily.
Virginia | Carter Mountain Orchard
1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22902
This multi-generational apple orchard in Virginia not only grows some of the best fruit in the country, but it also offers some of the best views around. The orchard offers plenty of attractions to keep you busy for hours including a taproom, restaurant, country store, bakery, and winery.
Apple season at Carter Mountain starts mid-august and runs through November. It is open to the public 7 days a week from 9 AM to 6 PM (5 PM on Sundays).
Washington | Bellewood Farms
6140 Guide Meridian, WA-539, Lynden, WA 98264
Bellewood Farms is ideal for the entire family. In the Fall, you can enjoy its U-Pick apple orchard, corn maze, pumpkin patch, cafe, and distillery. The farm packs 25,000 apple trees into 31 acres of land with 21 varieties to pick from.
The distillery offers a “farm-to-glass” experience with a tasting room to sample its brandy, vodka, and gin. Lastly, no visit to Bellewood farms would complete without a trip to its on-site farm store, which includes fresh produce, chef-prepared foods, and other farm-fresh products.
Bellewood farm is open to the public Wednesday - Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
West Virginia | Orr’s Farm Market
682 Orr Dr, Martinsburg, WV 25403
Settled in the lower Shenandoah Valley of the Eastern Panhandle region of West Virginia, Orr’s Farm Market is the place to go for fresh fruit. It constantly updates its inventory with produce grown on its Martinsburg farm. It produces around 500,00 bushels of fruit annually on about 1,100 acres of land.
You can visit the farm store Monday - Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM.
Wisconsin | Peck & Bushel
5454 County Rd Q, Colgate, WI 53017
Peck & Bushel has seen its fair share of difficulties over the past 10 years, however, it is now one of the largest organic apple orchards in the Midwest. The property spans 70 acres and includes a 3,000 square foot event rental space for weddings, business meetings, and more. The orchard also has an on-site bakery, cider mill, and gift shop filled with apple goodies.
Apple season at Peck & Bushel starts in mid-August and runs through October. You can visit the orchard Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Wyoming | Downtown Laramie Farmers Market
320 S 1st St, Laramie, WY 82070
While Wyoming is home to seven national parks, including Yellowstone, they don’t have apple orchards. But, don’t let that stop you from baking with farm-fresh fruit.
The Downtown Laramie Farmers Market offers farm stands full of fresh apples, produce, and other staples. You’ll spend the day shopping for items you didn’t even know you needed while also taking in live music and sampling local food carts.
The Downtown Laramie Farmers Market runs from July 3rd to September 25th and is open 3 PM - 7 PM.
Which Apples Are Best for Baking?
One of the hardest parts about baking with apples is deciding which variety to use for your recipe. Typically, recipes found on the internet leave out this information and it’s up to you to make the ultimate decision.
Unless you are an apple connoisseur, it’s almost impossible to know the subtle differences that can make or break a delicate apple pie. That is why we are breaking it down for you: from the ever-popular Granny Smith to the lesser-known Braeburn, below are the top 5 apples for your fall baking recipes.
- Honeycrisp: Crisp and juicy, Honeycrisp apples are versatile and widely available. They are sweet with a touch of honey, yet work perfectly in your favorite dishes.
- Braeburn: With a reddish-pink exterior, the Braeburn apple mimics the flavor of a Granny Smith while offering a slightly sweeter taste. The color of this apple makes it great for the overall presentation of your fall dish.
- Granny Smith: The Granny Smith is one of the best apples for pie baking. The tartness of the apple keeps your baked goods from becoming overly sweet.
- Cortland: While soft in texture, the Cortland Apple keeps its shape well and balances both sweet and tart flavors making it perfect for sweet or savory dishes.
- Jonagold: Surprisingly, the Jonagold apple tastes the same baked as it does raw - mildly sweet and tart. Since it is a hybrid of the Jonathan apple and the Golden Delicious, it tends to lean towards the sweeter side of life.
There are many more varieties of apples out there you can use to bake with and the possibilities are endless; however, it’s always best to use the correct apple for your specific dish. As a rule of thumb, milder apples work well with savory dishes while sweet and tart apples work better with sweet desserts.
Best Apple Recipes for Fall
There’s nothing quite like the haunting scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other festive spices pouring from an oven full of baked goods on a chilly autumn day. Here are some of our favorite recipes that will make your kitchen the center of attention this fall:
Autumn Apple Crisp
Arguably one of the best dishes you can bake for fall, an apple crisp will make you feel warm and cozy. It’s made with farm-fresh sliced apples coated in cinnamon and brown sugar and topped with cinnamon-spiced oats. Ideally, you would serve this with homemade vanilla ice cream and some sort of caramel topping. Find the full recipe at The Chunky Chef.Grandma’s Apple Pie
Classically perfect, apple pie is the definition of fall. It’s warm, flaky, sweet, and toasty. The thing is, most people are terrified to tackle an apple pie from scratch, however, it’s quite simple.While it may take time to craft this perfect pie, it’s well worth the effort. Find the full recipe for grandma’ss apple pie on AllRecipes.
Cinnamon Apple Pie Bread
For chilly autumn mornings, there’s nothing like a slice of cinnamon apple pie bread paired with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee. The best thing about this recipe is that it’s packed with aromatic spices and will fill your home with a heavenly scent. Find the recipe at Wishes and Dishes.Apple Pie Taquitos
If you are a fan of sopapillas, then you’ll fall in love with apple pie taquitos. This recipe elevates and puts a sweet spin on a classic dish.Sweet apples are sautéed in salted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla to create the filling for the taquitos. They are baked in the oven with a dusting of cinnamon-sugar and then topped with a decadent caramel sauce. Find the full recipe at Laura in the Kitchen.
Oven-Roasted Apple Butter
Roasted apples are the secret to mouth-watering apple butter. This recipe is perfect for spreading on biscuits, or if you dare, straight from the jar. Additionally, It makes for a wonderful gift for the holidays. Get the full recipe at Food 52.Bake Up a Fresh Look For Fall
Not only do the recipes we cook change in the fall, but our wardrobe also changes with the season. We trade in bright summer attire for cozy sweaters and warmer colors. From wool hats to reading glasses, we pair seasonal accessories with our favorite outfits to accent our unique looks and desired styles. ReadingGlasses.com offers designer reading glasses and sunglasses to match any autumn look. From classic and practical to chic and bold, we have thousands of combinations to complete your fall wardrobe.
