Fall's Finest: Apple Picking Adventures in Small Town America
Photo cred: Daiga Ellaby @unsplash
There's something magical about the crisp autumn air and the satisfying crunch of a freshly picked apple. As the leaves begin to turn and small towns across the country enjoy the cozy charm of fall, we've rounded up some delightful apple picking spots near a few of our favorite small towns. Grab your basket and get ready for a quintessential autumn experience!
Remember to call ahead and check their websites, as hours may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
Jamestown, RI: A Coastal Taste of New England
Sweet Berry Farm
This 100-acre treasure in nearby Middletown, just 8.5 miles away, offers a quintessential New England apple-picking experience. With seven varieties of apples available from late August to early October, you're sure to find your perfect pick. Don't miss their farm market for gourmet treats and artisanal cheeses.
915 Mitchell's Lane, Middletown, RI
Open daily, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Phone: (401) 847-3912
Website: https://www.sweetberryfarmri.com/
Rocky Brook Orchard
Just a stone's throw from Jamestown, this family-run orchard boasts over 80 apple varieties. It's a apple lover's paradise, recognized by Yankee Magazine as one of New England's best.
997 Wapping Road, Middletown, RI
Open Friday, Saturday and Sundays: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Phone: (401) 851-7989
Website: http://www.rockybrookorchard.com/
Photo cred: Daiga Ellaby @unsplash
Camden, ME: Coastal Charm Meets Orchard Bliss
Hope Orchards
A short 10 minute drive from Camden, Hope Orchards offers a delightful picking experience with a variety of apples and Asian pears. Regular season opens to pick Macintoch and Cortland Apples. Their farm stand is a treasure trove of local products.
434 Camden Road, Hope, ME
Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Phone: (207) 763-2824
Website: https://hopeorchards.com/
Photo cred: Lauren Rose @unsplash
Clarkesville, GA: Southern Hospitality in the Orchard
Hillside Orchard Farms
Just outside Clarkesville, this orchard does not offer u-pick this year but is still chock full of apples by the pound or the bushel along with a a full farm experience with a petting zoo and country store.
18 Soque Street, Lakemont, GA
Open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Phone: (706) 782-2776
Website: https://www.hillsideorchard.com/
Photo cred: Leeann Cline @unsplash
Staunton, VA: Shenandoah Valley's Apple Haven
Showalter's Orchard & Greenhouse
A short drive from Staunton, this family-owned orchard offers stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley along with its apples. Don't miss their fresh-pressed cider.
17768 Honeyville Road, Timberville, VA
Open Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Phone: (540) 896-7873
Do you ever get to the orchard and wonder - just how much do I need? We borrowed this chart for Showalter’s website to help! We will be keeping the link on hand for all of our orchard visits!
Each of these orchards offers its own unique charm, reflecting the character of its small-town surroundings. Whether you're drawn to the coastal beauty of New England, the rolling hills of the Appalachians, or the warm hospitality of the South, there's an orchard waiting for you to create lasting autumn memories.
So grab your baskets and get ready for a day of apple-picking adventure. And remember, the best part of picking your own apples? The delicious pies, crisps, and ciders you'll bake and enjoy afterward!
