New York is the second-largest apple-producing state in the nation, offering perfect conditions for growing both classic and newer varieties of fruit. From the Hudson Valley to the Adirondack Mountains, New York farms and orchards invite guests to pick their own fruit, enjoy fall traditions, and shop for locally made goods as the weather cools down. Apple cider donuts, pies, hard ciders, and fruit jams 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 exploring the state’s rural reaches, a visit to an apple orchard is a great way to spend time with friends, family, and children. Many orchards host fall activities to ring in the season, meaning you can enjoy a whole day outside before heading home to enjoy your apples.
Long Island
1. Lewin Farms
Address: 201-709 Fresh Pond Ave, Calverton, NY 11933
If you live within the five boroughs, or even in Northern New Jersey, Long Island’s apple orchards can make a quick and easy day trip.
Located right off Sound Avenue in Northeastern Long Island, Lewin Farms is a family-owned farm that grows fruits, vegetables, and even Christmas Trees. The farm’s apple season generally lasts from late August to late October or early November. Picking dates vary, so it’s best to call ahead for an updated picking schedule.
Lewin Farms also offers a corn maze every autumn, along with a fully stocked farm stand selling homemade products. Nearby North Fork Brewing Company uses fruit from the farm to brew its craft beer, and you can pick up cans at the farm stand when available.
2. Harbes Family Farm
Address: 715 Sound Ave, Mattituck, NY 11952
For a popular apple-picking destination on the North Fork, consider Harbes Family Farm’s Mattituck outpost. Home to over 27 apple varieties, the farm’s picking season opens in September. Weekend and holiday tickets must be purchased online. If you’re not sure what flavor profile you’re looking for, visit the farm page for descriptions of all the apple varieties available.
Other farm attractions include the Robin Hood Corn Maze, Spooky Night Maze, and Orchard Pumpkin Patch. Don’t miss the sweet treats available for purchase. Guests can also enjoy a bottle or glass of wine straight from the Harbes Vineyard to top off a busy day.
3. Hank’s Pumpkintown
Address: 240 Montauk Hwy, Water Mill, NY 11976
Located on Long Island’s South Fork, Hank’s Pumpkintown is another great option for those looking to escape the city. Apple picking is available on weekends and school holidays starting in September. The farm’s Facebook page is the best place to check for apple updates, including what varieties are available.
Hank’s Maze Park play area is full of activities for the kids, including a giant corn maze, jump pad, duck races, slides, pedal carts and so much more. The park also offers gem mining, pumpkin picking, and a farm market where you can stock up on treats for the drive home. Adults can purchase some of Hank’s homemade hard cider to enjoy later. Try to arrive as early as possible to enjoy all the farm has to offer- Hank’s is open daily, from 9:30 am to 6 pm.
Hudson Valley
4. 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.
5. 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 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.
6. 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.
Capital Region
7. Windy Hill Orchard
Address: 1297 Brookview Station Rd, Castleton, NY 12033
Located in Upstate New York’s capital region just south of Albany, Windy Hill Orchard is a relatively new addition to the region. 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.
8. Bowman Orchards
Address: 147 Sugar Hill Rd, Rexford, NY 12148
Bowman Orchards offers u-pick opportunities through October. The orchards’ website has a handy daily picking sheet, which can tell you what varieties are available on a given day and where they are in the orchard; you can choose from over 60 varieties. Apples are generally available starting in September, but it’s best to call ahead for more details.
Other things to do at the orchards include classics like the farm store, fresh produce stand, maze, and pony rides. The younger visitors will be excited to try new additions like the Bowman Orchard Express, Grain Hoops, and Combine Super Slide.
Adirondacks
9. Hicks Orchard
Address: 18 Hicks Rd, Granville, NY 12832
The Adirondacks are known for their peaks, woodlands, and lakes, but they’re also home to a few orchards that are worth a visit as fall rolls in. Located in the small community of Granville, Hicks Orchard offers apple picking during the fall season.
The orchard is home to a homemade hard cider tasting room dating back to 1935 and an on-site art gallery. Hours and picking schedules may vary, so be sure to call ahead to plan your trip. The orchard is easy to visit from Vermont, Albany, or elsewhere in the Adirondack region.
Central New York State
10. O’Neill’s Orchard
Address: 4872 US-20, Lafayette, NY 13084
Just south of Syracuse, O’Neill’s Orchard usually opens for apple picking in late August or early September. The orchard grows many apple varieties, and there is a tentative you-pick schedule online. However, it’s best to call ahead for updated details.
On weekdays, guests can pick up jams, baked goods, and more at the farm stand. On weekends, the orchard kitchen sells seasonal goodies like apple fritters, apple cider donuts, and more.
Address: 3655 Cherry Valley Turnpike, Syracuse, NY 13215
Also located a short drive from central Syracuse, Navarino Orchard is open for apple picking starting in August. The orchard has over twenty apple varieties available. The orchard also has plenty of furry residents to say hello, including goats and friendly dogs. Don’t miss the country store for freshly baked pastries and other homemade goods to enjoy at home.
An on-site café offers farm-fresh meals, drinks, and weekend brunch items to enjoy after picking your apples. Vegan and gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions. Whether you live in Syracuse or are just visiting the region, it’s easy to spend an entire day enjoying Navarino Orchard.
Finger Lakes
12. Apples and Moore
Address: 2750 Apple Ln, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Located minutes from the shore of Seneca Lake, Apples and Moore Orchard make a memorable addition to any Finger Lakes getaway. Apple picking generally begins in late August, though it’s best to call ahead for updates.
There are over twenty varieties available for picking, and homemade apple products are available for purchase. If you’re hoping to purchase some fresh apple cider, it usually becomes available in mid-September. After taking your apples home, check out the orchard’s handpicked recipe recommendations.
13. Indian Creek Farm
Address: 1408 Trumansburg Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
Indian Creek Farm offers a plentiful you-pick schedule, with apples coming in during the fall season. It’s best to keep an eye on the farm website or Facebook page for the latest crop updates. The orchard is home to century-old trees that continue to produce delicious fruit, many of which you can find on the annual crop calendar. The on-site Dwarf Orchard is especially fun for the little ones, as all 60 varieties of apples grow at eye level for children. Indian Creek is a short drive from Ithaca’s downtown district, meaning you can be in and out or spend the whole day enjoying this 100-year-old gem.
