When fall arrives in the Big Apple, there’s one outdoor activity that stands out among the rest: apple picking. Just a short drive from the bustling streets of New York City, you’ll find picturesque orchards offering a perfect blend of fresh air, family fun, and delicious apples. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the ten best orchards for apple picking near New York City and help you plan the perfect autumn adventure.
Best Time for Apple Picking in New York:
The best time for apple picking in New York typically falls between late August and late October. However, the ideal time within this window can vary depending on the apple varieties you prefer. Here’s a breakdown:
- Best apple varieties for early-season apple picking in New York (Early to Mid-September): This is prime time for picking early-season apples like McIntosh and Paula Red. These apples are crisp and sweet, perfect for fresh eating and baking.
- Best apple varieties for mid-season apple picking in New York (Late September to Early October): For a wider variety of apples, visit during this period. You’ll find classics like Gala and Cortland, which are excellent for snacking and cooking.
- Best apple varieties for late-season apple picking in New York (Mid to Late October): Late-season apples like Fuji and Rome are at their best during this time. They’re great for storage and make delicious pies and sauces.
The 10 Best Orchards for Apple Picking Near New York City:
Now, let’s explore the top orchards in the area where you can enjoy a day of apple picking and more:
- Applewood Orchards & Winery apple picking near New York City: Escape to the charming Applewood Orchards & Winery in the picturesque Hudson Valley. Just 60 miles north of New York City, this delightful oasis offers a wide variety of apples, enchanting activities, and a delightful winery for tastings. Take a leisurely hayride, explore a charming country store full of artisanal products, and indulge in freshly baked pies and cider donuts. But what really sets Applewood Orchards apart is its on-site winery, where you can savor handcrafted wines made from the orchard’s own apples. Nestled among rolling hills, this serene spot is the perfect place to unwind and indulge in the finest apple-based treats and wines in the region.
- Masker Orchards apple picking New York City: Experience the beauty of Masker Orchards, a family favorite just 50 miles north of New York City. Nestled in the picturesque Hudson Valley, this orchard offers the perfect apple-picking adventure. From Honeycrisps to Granny Smiths, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious apples to pluck from the trees. But apple-picking isn’t the only attraction here. Enjoy tractor rides, browse a charming country store filled with homemade goodies, and visit a petting zoo that’s a hit with kids. And don’t forget to treat yourself to their mouthwatering cider donuts and freshly pressed apple cider. With its stunning scenery, exciting activities, and irresistible treats, Masker Orchards is the ideal fall getaway just a short drive from NYC.
- Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard apple picking: Experience autumn at its finest at Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard! Located just an hour’s drive away from New York City, this charming family-friendly farm offers a delightful day of apple picking, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Hudson Valley, this idyllic orchard provides a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Stroll through the apple orchards, hand-picking your favorite varieties at the peak of ripeness. But the fun doesn’t stop at apple picking – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Take a pony ride, navigate through a challenging corn maze, or cuddle up with friendly farm animals at the petting zoo. And don’t forget to treat yourself to freshly baked pies, apple cider, and irresistible cider donuts for the ultimate fall delight. With its stunning beauty and a wide range of family-friendly activities, Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard is the perfect destination to embrace the joys of autumn just a short drive away from the city.
- Fishkill Farms apple picking near NYC: Experience the perfect day trip from New York City at Fishkill Farms, a sustainable farm nestled in the breathtaking Hudson Valley. Explore our meticulously maintained orchards and pick your own apples from a diverse selection for the freshest and juiciest experience. But that’s not all – our farm offers so much more. Take a tractor-drawn wagon ride, wander our scenic hiking trails, or visit our farm-to-table market featuring local produce. And for the foodies out there, don’t miss our on-site cafe serving up homemade treats made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With our commitment to sustainable farming and a range of activities for all ages, Fishkill Farms is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Come escape the city and indulge in a truly unforgettable day immersed in nature and delicious farm-fresh food just a short drive away.
- Ochs Orchard apple picking New York (Warwick, NY): Escape the hustle and bustle of New York City and discover a hidden gem just 60 miles north. Ochs Orchard offers breathtaking views and mouthwatering apples in a serene setting. Walk through picturesque orchards and hand-pick the juiciest apple varieties at their peak ripeness. Take a break and enjoy a picnic in this tranquil oasis. Indulge in the farm’s freshly picked apples, homemade cider, and irresistible baked goods like apple pies and cider donuts. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Hudson Valley and treat yourself to a delightful day trip at Ochs Orchard.
- Pennings Orchard apple picking near NYC (Warwick, NY): Escape to Pennings Orchard for a delightful apple-picking adventure just 60 miles from New York City. Experience the joy of exploring well-maintained orchards and hand-picking your favorite apple varieties in the beautiful Hudson Valley. But that’s not all – Pennings Orchard has so much more to offer! Get lost in corn mazes, interact with friendly farm animals, and enjoy seasonal events suitable for everyone. Food lovers will be in heaven with the on-site cider mill, brewery, and farm-to-table restaurant. Sip on freshly pressed apple cider, savor craft beers, and indulge in mouthwatering apple-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. With its incredible location, stunning scenery, and an abundance of activities and culinary delights, Pennings Orchard is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable fall day trip.
- Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm apple picking (Yorktown Heights, NY): Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the charm of a rural getaway at Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm. Located only 45 miles north of New York City, this beloved apple-picking destination is the perfect day trip for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Hudson Valley. At Wilkens, you’ll find well-maintained orchards filled with a variety of apples at their prime, perfect for picking and enjoying. But it’s not just about picking apples – this family-owned farm offers an array of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained. From hayrides to a corn maze, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. And let’s not forget about the delectable treats. Indulge your taste buds with freshly baked apple pies, mouthwatering apple cider donuts, and deliciously refreshing apple cider made right on the farm. Conveniently located, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, and offering an abundance of activities and culinary delights, Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm is the ultimate fall destination just a short drive from NYC. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to embrace the joys of the season.
- Demarest Farms apple picking near NYC (Hillsdale, NJ): Experience the best of fall at Demarest Farms, a hidden gem just 20 miles north of New York City in charming Bergen County, New Jersey. This family-friendly farm offers more than just apple-picking – it’s a complete autumn escape. Explore their well-tended orchards and choose from a variety of apple types at their seasonal peak. But that’s not all – enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo, and a pumpkin patch for a truly immersive fall experience. And don’t forget to satisfy your cravings with fresh produce, cider donuts, pies, and their famous homemade apple cider. With its proximity to NYC, a range of activities, and delicious treats, Demarest Farms is the perfect day trip to embrace the joys of fall.
- Alstede Farms apple picking near New York City (Chester, NJ): Escape the hustle and bustle of New York City and immerse yourself in a magical apple-picking experience at Alstede Farms. Just a short drive away, this picturesque farm offers not only apple picking, but also scenic hayrides and the chance to interact with adorable farm animals. Nestled in scenic Morris County, this family-friendly destination is a perfect day trip for apple enthusiasts. Explore pristine orchards bursting with a wide variety of apples to satisfy any taste. But that’s not all – Alstede Farms has something for everyone. Hop on a tractor-drawn hayride, get lost in a sunflower maze, and make new furry friends at the petting zoo. Food lovers will rejoice at the farm store, filled with fresh produce, apple cider, cider donuts, and delectable treats. With its convenient location, stunning surroundings, and endless activities and culinary delights, Alstede Farms is a must-visit this fall season.
- Lewin Farms apple picking Long Island (Calverton, NY): Experience the joy of apple-picking at Lewin Farms, nestled in the picturesque Long Island, just 70 miles east of New York City. This family-owned farm in Suffolk County provides a scenic backdrop for apple enthusiasts, with well-maintained orchards boasting a variety of apple types to choose from. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Lewin Farms also offers family-friendly activities like hayrides, a corn maze, and a pumpkin patch in the fall. And for foodies, there’s a fresh produce market with farm-fresh fruits and veggies, homemade pies, apple cider, and irresistible baked goods. Come and enjoy a memorable day trip from NYC and indulge in the best of fall amidst Long Island’s rural charm.
Apple picking near New York City is a cherished fall tradition, offering a delightful escape from the urban hustle and bustle. With the best time to go and a list of top orchards at your disposal, you’re ready to embark on a memorable autumn adventure. So, grab your apple basket, put on your favorite flannel shirt, and savor the crisp air and delicious apples waiting for you in the orchards near NYC.
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