As the second-largest apple-producing state in the nation, New York has the perfect autumn climate for growing bushels of classic varieties and new innovations. Upstate New York farms and orchards invite fall day trippers to pick their own fruit, enjoy fall traditions, and shop for homemade products as the season rolls in. Apple cider donuts, fresh pressed ciders, and apple butter are just some of the treats you’ll find at orchards statewide.
Whether you’re looking for a day trip from New York City or taking a longer getaway in Upstate New York, a visit to an orchard is a memorable way to celebrate fall with your loved ones. Resembling New England’s fall landscapes, the region is both beautiful and full of surprises.
1. Lawrence Farms Orchards
Address: 306 Frozen Ridge Rd, Newburgh, NY 12550
Located just north of Newburgh, New York, Lawrence Farms Orchards are easy to reach from the tri-state area or anywhere along the Hudson Valley. The orchards have a busy fall season and offer plenty of varieties for apple and veggie pickers. Available varieties include Gala, Zestar, Ginger Gold and more.
Advance reservations aren’t necessary, but it’s best to call the farm to get more up-to-date information on what’s available and when is the best time to visit. The farm concession stand offers autumn treats, including apple cider donuts, roasted nuts, and frozen cider.
2. Hurds Family Farm
Address: 2185 NY-32, Modena, NY 12548
Another conveniently located Hudson Valley choice, Hurds Family Farm offers apple picking starting at the very beginning of fall. Apple varieties available in September include Cortland, Jonagold, SnapDragon, and more- check out the farm’s website for a full list of what you can take home.
Special farm events include whiskey tastings and live music. There are also a number of fall-themed activities to keep the kids busy, including the cow train, hayrides, mini-zipline, and pony rides.
3. DuBois Farms
Address: 209 Perkinsville Rd, Highland, NY 12528
Open daily through November, Highland’s Dubois Farms invite guests to pick their own apples, grapes, tomatoes, and pumpkins as autumn rolls along. Live music, wagon rides, and other events are offered throughout the season, and an on-site farm market/café sells local goods, small bites, and drinks.
Open from Wednesday to Sunday, The Tavern at DuBois Farms is a great place to relax after apple picking and sample local wines, ciders, and more.
4. Cedar Heights Orchards
Address: 8 Crosby Ln, Rhinebeck, NY 12572
Located on the east bank of the Hudson in Rhinebeck, New York, Cedar Heights Orchards invites families to pick ripe apples every Saturday during the season. You can pick from heirloom trees, and available varieties include Gala, Macoun, and Gold Rush.
The orchard is always exploring new options in the apple-growing world and has made it a goal to bring forgotten varieties back into the limelight. You can view Apple offerings here, along with descriptions.
Cedar Heights makes a fast and easy day trip from anywhere in the Hudson Valley, and you can couple your visit with a stroll around the nearby village of Rhinebeck.
5. Apple Ridge Orchards
Address: 101 Jessup Rd, Warwick, NY 10990
Only an hour and a half west of the five boroughs, Apple Ridge Orchards can feel like an entirely different world, especially once the leaves start to change color. The orchard offers apple picking starting in early September, just in time to feel the air turn crisp. Admission includes parking and access to the petting zoo and play area.
The orchard is home to several activities, including classic hayrides, a vibrant (and extremely photogenic) sunflower field, and pumpkin picking/ movie night combos. Peaches are also available when in season. On weekends and holidays, visitors can enjoy the orchard’s sizzling barbecue menu after spending the morning filling up their apple bags.
If you’re shopping for fresh honey alongside apple picking, be sure to peek into the orchard’s Honey Bee Observation Hive before picking up a jar to take home.
6. Rose Hill Farm
Address: 19 Rose Hill, Red Hook, NY 12571
Located just outside of Red Hook, Rose Hill Farm is easy to reach from busy Route 9. The farm rings in the apple-picking season in late August and wraps up towards the end of October. An up-to-date ripening schedule can be found on the farm website.
Varieties include everything from tart Shizuka to sweet, classic Golden Delicious and beyond. If you’re carving a pick-me-up after a long day of apple hunting, be sure to stop by the farm’s taproom for refreshing cider or a glass of wine. The venue also hosts events featuring local collaborators, so keep an eye on the calendar.
7. Fishkill Farms
Address: 9 Fishkill Farm Rd, Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
Located just east of Beacon, Fishkill Farms is a Hudson Valley favorite for fruit picking, fresh cider, and fresh baked goods. The farm has stayed in the same family for over a century and participates in farmers’ markets across the region. Apples are available through October, and the farm requires an advance reservation for participating visitors. These can be made online.
Blueberries, blackberries, and herbs are just some of the crops you’ll find alongside the apple varieties. This handy page on the farm’s website will tell you everything you need to know about what apples are available for picking.
While at Fishkill Farms, don’t miss the on-site Treasury Cider Bar, which offers local refreshments, snacks, and of course- plenty of homemade hard cider. The farm’s outdoor grill serves hot food through summer and fall.
8. Apple Dave’s Orchards
Address: 82 4 Corners Rd, Warwick, NY 10990
Located a short drive west of New York City, Apple Dave’s is just as inviting as it sounds. Apples become available at the beginning of September, and all the info you need can be found in the orchard’s apple-picking guide. For details on available apple varieties, check out this handy page on the orchard’s website.
As an added bonus, the orchard is also home to a distillery with great views. Adult apple pickers can sample hard ciders, craft beers, and specialty cocktails. A food menu is also available to complement your drink selection.
9. Kelder Farms
Address: 5755 US-209, Kerhonkson, NY 12446
Located just west of New Paltz, Kelder Farms is a must-stop on any drive through the area’s small-town destinations. The farm sells a day admission pass that gets you access to over thirty on-site attractions, including apple picking. Other crops include raspberries, zucchini, flowers, greens, herbs, and more, depending on when you visit. When it comes to apples, be sure to call ahead to see what varieties are available under the current conditions.
If you’re local to the area and see yourself coming back for more, consider investing in the farm’s family or single seasonal pass, which offers unlimited admission.
Farm festivals include the Sunflower Extravaganza and Fall Harvest Celebration, which lasts from September through October.
Regular activities at the farm include shopping at the farm stand, enjoying hard cider or craft beer at the Loading Dock, and plenty of playground fun to keep the kids engaged. Don’t forget to stop by the family-friendly Pizza Barn or Farmer’s Grill for hot food to top off the day.
10. Barton Orchards
Address: 63 Apple Tree Ln, Poughquag, NY 12570
Located east of Wappingers Falls, Barton Orchards is another family-owned gem within driving distance of New York and anywhere in the Hudson Valley. Covering 175 acres, the orchards offer an on-site taproom, kid’ activities, and a snack stand to go along with your apple-picking experience. The farm market and petting zoo are additional highlights, and the orchards are guaranteed to keep you busy for the better part of the day. A dog park is available for your furry friends.
The orchards’ event calendar is brimming with festivities, live music, and even an Oktoberfest celebration. Food and drink menus are available at the Taproom. Don’t miss the farm market for homemade goods and local products!
11. Windy Hill Orchard
Address: 1297 Brookview Station Rd, Castleton, NY 12033
Located in New York’s capital region just south of Albany, Windy Hill Orchard is a relatively new addition to the area. With a fresh perspective on the apple-growing tradition and plenty to offer, Windy Hill is well on its way to becoming a local mainstay. Apple picking is available through the fall season but be sure to call for updates before planning your trip.
If you’re looking for a specific kind of apple, check out this list of apple varieties grown in the orchard. The family-owned farm is known for producing its own cider as well, so pick up a jug before heading home to enjoy your apples. While this orchard is a bit further from the city than others on this list, it makes a great destination if you’re touring the state capital or are on your way to the Adirondacks.
