Best Places for Apple Picking in the US This Fall

Apple Picking
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

While the United States is certainly not the only producer of apples in the world, it is the second largest in terms of quantity, on average producing over 80 million tons per year. Many of these apples end up being sold in grocery stores or get exported to other countries, but some remain on trees a bit longer, waiting to be picked. Apple picking in the fall is an American pastime, and it’s definitely something we always look forward to. It’s a perfect opportunity to get out of the house for some fresh air and support your local farmers at the same time. Whether you make it a group outing or a romantic date activity, you’re sure to have fun. Here are some of the best places to pick apples around the US:

Best in the East – Beak and Skiff

Beak and Skiff apple orchard in Lafayette, New York was rated the best in the US in 2021. It’s a family-owned orchard over 100 years old, so they must be doing something right. They grow several varieties of apples and also host fun festivals and events throughout the season.

Best in the South – Mercier Orchards

This orchard in Blue Ridge, Georgia grows over 50 varieties of apples that can be picked during their You-Pick apple event every fall. For those who prefer to enjoy from the sidelines, a bakery on the property offers pastries like apple hand pies and cider made with fruit grown on the orchard.

Best in the Midwest – Deal’s Orchard

Deal’s is another family-run orchard located in the town of Jefferson, Iowa. They grow dozens of different apple varieties and use some of them to make their own homemade cider. In the fall, they offer pick-your-own events as well as other seasonal activities for kids.