Fall in the United States means crisp air, colorful foliage, and one of the most beloved seasonal traditions—apple picking. From New England’s charming countryside to the scenic mountains of the South and the abundant farms of the Pacific Northwest, the U.S. is home to some of the best apple orchards in the world.
If you’re looking for family-friendly fall activities, fresh apple cider, and unforgettable rural landscapes, here are the top 10 apple orchards in the U.S. you need to visit this autumn.
1. Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards – Lafayette, NY
Voted multiple times as the #1 apple orchard in America, Beak & Skiff has been delighting visitors since 1911. Located in upstate New York, this fifth-generation farm offers more than 15 varieties of apples, a scenic pick-your-own orchard, a bakery, and even a historic cidery/distillery. Visitors rave about the fresh cider and the famous apple cider donuts.
Location highlight: Ideal for families and couples looking for a picturesque fall getaway in New York State.
2. Libby & Son U-Picks – Limerick, ME
In the heart of southern Maine, Libby & Son U-Picks is a seasonal paradise. With 18 acres of dwarf apple trees, you can easily reach the fruit without ladders—perfect for kids. The farm also grows blueberries and raspberries in the summer, but fall is all about apples. Wagon rides and live music on weekends make it a lively spot.
Don’t miss: Hot blueberry donuts and freshly pressed cider.
3. Mercier Orchards – Blue Ridge, GA
Known as the South’s most famous apple orchard, Mercier Orchards spans over 300 acres in the North Georgia mountains. In addition to apple picking, you can enjoy fresh-baked fried apple pies, cider donuts, jams, and even on-site hard cider and wine.
Insider tip: Perfect for combining apple picking with a scenic mountain road trip.
4. Sky Top Orchard – Flat Rock, NC
This mountaintop orchard offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Families love the barnyard animals, orchard ponds, and hayrides, while food lovers flock for the warm, freshly made apple cider donuts. Varieties include Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, Mutsu, and Stayman Winesap.
Best for: Nature lovers and photographers seeking peak fall foliage.
5. Knaebe’s Apple Farm & Ciderworks – Rogers City, MI
Located in Michigan’s lake country, Knaebe’s offers a mix of apple picking, a hard cider tasting room, and even a wood-fired pizza oven. Families enjoy the playground and petting zoo, while foodies appreciate the fresh cider and cake donuts.
Local flavor: Try Midwest favorites like McIntosh, Jonathan, and SnowSweet apples.
6. Milburn Orchards – Elkton, MD
A Mid-Atlantic favorite, Milburn Orchards has been family-run for four generations. Fall weekends feature the “Apple Harvest Celebration” with hayrides, a corn maze, and barnyard animals. Their market is known for fresh cider and apple dumplings.
Convenient for: Families from Philadelphia, Baltimore, and surrounding areas.
7. Hugus Fruit Farm – Rushville, OH
This charming Ohio orchard has been growing apples for over a century. Hugus Fruit Farm offers a peaceful rural setting, pick-your-own apples, and a farm stand famous for unpasteurized cider and apple butter.
Why visit: Authentic, no-frills apple picking experience.
8. Carver’s Orchard & Applehouse – Cosby, TN
In the Smoky Mountains, Carver’s combines apple picking with hearty Southern meals at its Applehouse Restaurant. Dishes feature apple cider, fried apple pies, and homemade apple butter—all enjoyed with panoramic orchard views.
Perfect for: Food lovers and travelers exploring the Smokies.
9. Red Apple Farm – Phillipston, MA
A classic New England apple picking destination, Red Apple Farm offers horse-drawn hayrides, live music, farm animals, and seasonal festivals. It’s been family-run for over 100 years and is known for its warm hospitality.
Must try: Fudge, applesauce, and local craft cider at the Brew Barn.
10. Bellewood Farms & Distillery – Lynden, WA
Located in Washington State—the largest apple producer in the U.S.—Bellewood Farms offers U-pick apples alongside a 14,000 sq. ft. farm store, cafe, and distillery. Visitors can taste apple brandy, gin, and fresh-baked apple pie.
Extra perk: Guided tours showing cider pressing and distilling.
Planning Your Apple Picking Trip in the U.S.
Apple picking season in most states runs from Labor Day through late October. To avoid crowds and enjoy the best fruit, plan your visit early in the season. Many orchards offer family activities, so check their event calendars before you go.
Whether you’re exploring New England’s rolling hills, the Blue Ridge Mountains, or the Pacific Northwest, visiting these orchards is one of the best fall activities in the U.S.—blending nature, tradition, and seasonal flavors in every bite.
