Midwest Link Journal ∙ MLJ

Top Apple Orchards in Your Midwest State: Your Guide to Fall Fun

The Midwest is a haven for apples and donuts in the Fall, with orchards offering juicy, fresh-picked apples and family-friendly activities.

Whether you’re craving a crisp Honeycrisp or a fun-filled day with hayrides and cider donuts, these top apple orchards in each Midwest state are must-visit destinations.

Below, we’ve listed the top four orchards per state, including their activities, operating seasons, locations, costs, unique features, and website links. Let’s dive into the best spots for apple picking and fall adventures!


Illinois: Top Apple Orchards

1. Edwards Apple Orchard West

  • Location: Winnebago, IL
  • Activities: U-pick apples, hayrides, corn maze, petting zoo, pony rides, apple cider donut shop, and a farm equipment museum.
  • Season: Open daily from September 1 to October 31, 9 AM to 6 PM.
  • Cost: $35 per basket for apple picking; additional fees for activities like hayrides and pony rides.
  • Unique Features: Known for its apple pie with cheddar cheese, a unique Midwest twist. The orchard also has a historic apple barn dating back to the 1880s.
  • Important Info: Offers a variety of apples like Haralson, a tart Midwest favorite. Check their website for apple availability. Cash only for U-pick produce.
  • Website: edwardsorchardwest.com

2. County Line Orchard

  • Location: Hobart, IN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pumpkins, and sunflowers, corn maze, petting zoo, moo-choo train, live music, and a bakery with famous donuts.
  • Season: Open daily from late August to October, 9 AM to 6 PM.
  • Cost: $10 admission, apples priced at $1.75/lb.
  • Unique Features: Features a soybean maze shaped like an Albanese Gummi Bear and a rooftop patio for enjoying campfire-style foods like brats.
  • Important Info: A great spot for Chicago-area families, just an hour away. Order cinnamon sugar donuts early, as they take an hour to prepare.
  • Website: countylineorchard.com

3. Jonamac Orchard

  • Location: Malta, IL
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides, apple cannon, cider house with apple cider mimosas, and a farm store.
  • Season: Open daily from late August to October 31, 9 AM to 5:30 PM.
  • Cost: Admission varies; apple picking starts at $12 per peck.
  • Unique Features: Offers a cider house where you can sip apple cider mimosas while picking. The pumpkin catapult is a kid favorite.
  • Important Info: Nearly 30 apple varieties available. Check the website for specific apple picking dates and events like the Apple Harvest Festival.
  • Website: jonamacorchard.com

4. Rendleman Orchards

  • Location: Alto Pass, IL
  • Activities: U-pick apples, peaches, and nectarines, farm market with apple butter and peach crisp mix, and family-friendly events like a bell-ringing ceremony.
  • Season: Open June 28 to October 31, Monday–Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM, Sunday 12 PM to 5 PM; November 1 to December 18 by appointment.
  • Cost: Apple picking prices vary by bag size; farm market items priced separately.
  • Unique Features: A 150-year-old, fifth-generation family orchard nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, known for its rich history and famous apple butter.
  • Important Info: Offers farm-to-porch shipping for fresh fruit. Ideal for those seeking a scenic, historic orchard experience.
  • Website: rendlemanorchards.com

Indiana: Top Apple Orchards

1. Garwood Orchards

  • Location: La Porte, IN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm store with jams, salsas, and fruit butters, and a petting zoo.
  • Season: Open weekends in September and October, 10 AM to 6 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per half-peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A no-frills orchard focusing on quality apples like Gala and McIntosh, with a well-stocked farm store for homemade goods.
  • Important Info: Popular with Chicago-area visitors due to its proximity. Check social media for apple variety updates.
  • Website: garwoodorchards.com

2. Cook’s Orchard

  • Location: Fort Wayne, IN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, hayrides, and a farm market supplying apples for local bakeries.
  • Season: Open September to October, 10 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking prices vary; typically $10–$15 per peck.
  • Unique Features: Supplies apples for GK Baked Goods’ famous apple hand pies, offering 18 U-pick varieties for pie enthusiasts.
  • Important Info: Located within city limits, offering a pastoral escape without a long drive. Check for seasonal events.
  • Website: cooksorchard.com

3. Tuttle Orchards

  • Location: Greenfield, IN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pumpkins, and sunflowers, tractor rides, corn maze, farm store, and a cafe with apple cider slushies.
  • Season: Open August to October, Monday–Saturday 9 AM to 7 PM.
  • Cost: $10–$15 for apple picking; some activities require additional fees.
  • Unique Features: Offers a farm-themed playground and apple cider slushies, making it a hit with families.
  • Important Info: Reservations recommended for U-pick. The orchard also hosts fall festivals with live music.
  • Website: tuttleorchards.com

4. Anderson Orchard

  • Location: Mooresville, IN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, raspberries, and pumpkins, hayrides, corn maze, and a farm market with cider and pies.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $12 per peck; free admission on weekdays.
  • Unique Features: Known for its wide variety of apples and raspberries, plus a cozy farm market with homemade treats.
  • Important Info: Great for Indianapolis-area families. Check the website for picking schedules and availability.
  • Website: andersonorchards.com

Iowa: Top Apple Orchards

1. Wilson’s Orchard & Farm

  • Location: Iowa City and Des Moines, IA
  • Activities: U-pick apples, blueberries, pumpkins, and flowers, corn maze, farm market, pizza parlor, and cider house.
  • Season: Open August to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; some activities have additional fees.
  • Unique Features: Boasts over 80 apple varieties, including Honeycrisp, and a diverse range of pickable produce like flowers and berries.
  • Important Info: Known for its event staff and scenic 115-acre farm. Check for seasonal events like kite day or firefly festival.
  • Website: wilsonsorchard.com

2. Deal’s Orchard

  • Location: Jefferson, IA
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, corn maze, wagon rides, petting zoo, and a marketplace with honey and ice cream.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10 admission; apple picking priced by weight.
  • Unique Features: A fifth-generation orchard with over 25 apple varieties and family-friendly events like fall weekends.
  • Important Info: Offers a scenic farm trail for leisurely walks. Check the website for apple availability.
  • Website: dealsorchard.com

3. Center Grove Orchard

  • Location: Cambridge, IA
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, corn maze, jumping pillow, hayrides, and a farm store with cider donuts.
  • Season: Open September to October, 9 AM to 7 PM daily.
  • Cost: $12–$15 admission includes activities; apple picking extra.
  • Unique Features: Features a giant jumping pillow and a schoolhouse-themed play area for kids.
  • Important Info: Popular for school field trips. Reservations recommended for large groups.
  • Website: centergroveorchard.com

4. Allen’s Orchard

  • Location: Marion, IA
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm market with cider and baked goods, and weekend hayrides.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 9 AM to 5 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per half-peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A smaller, family-run orchard focusing on quality apples like Honeycrisp and Cortland.
  • Important Info: Ideal for a low-key apple-picking experience. Check social media for updates on apple varieties.
  • Website: allensorchard.com

Kansas: Top Apple Orchards

1. Cider Hill Family Orchard

  • Location: Kansas City, KS
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pumpkins, and flowers, hayrides, corn maze, farm store with kettle corn and cider, and a tasting room.
  • Season: Open August to October, Tuesday–Sunday 9 AM to 6 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $12 per peck; some activities included with admission.
  • Unique Features: Known for its 18 apple varieties and scenic 38-acre property, popular for weddings and sensory-friendly events.
  • Important Info: Offers Sensory Saturdays for a quieter experience. Check the website for event schedules.
  • Website: ciderhillfamilyorchard.com

2. Meadowlark Orchards

  • Location: Wichita, KS
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, hayrides, farm store with cider and pies, and a petting zoo.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: $10 admission; apple picking priced by weight.
  • Unique Features: Offers a rustic farm experience with a focus on local produce and homemade baked goods.
  • Important Info: Ideal for families seeking a smaller, community-focused orchard. Check for apple availability.
  • Website: meadowlarkorchards.com

3. Pome on the Range

  • Location: Williamsburg, KS
  • Activities: U-pick apples and peaches, farm market with jams and cider, and picnic areas.
  • Season: Open late August to October, Wednesday–Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: Combines apple and peach picking with a laid-back, picnic-friendly atmosphere.
  • Important Info: Great for a relaxed day trip. Call ahead for apple variety updates.
  • Website: pomeontherange.com

4. Granny’s Apple Orchard

  • Location: Topeka, KS
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm store with cider and baked goods, and hayrides.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: $8–$12 for apple picking; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A small, family-owned orchard with a focus on traditional apple varieties like Jonathan.
  • Important Info: Limited activities make it ideal for those focused on apple picking. Check social media for hours.
  • Website: No official website; check local listings or call (785) 478-1234.

Michigan: Top Apple Orchards

1. Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill (Multiple Locations)

  • Location: Armada, MI and South Lyon, MI
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pumpkins, and berries, corn maze, petting farm, train rides, haunted village, and a tasting room for craft cider.
  • Season: Open August to November, 8 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $15–$20 admission includes activities; apple picking priced separately.
  • Unique Features: Features over 40 apple varieties and a Funland with 25+ attractions, including a straw bale maze.
  • Important Info: Known for its open-air apple press and cider donuts. Check the website for festival dates.
  • Website: blakesfarms.com (Armada)
  • blakefarms.com (South Lyon)

2. Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery

  • Location: Grand Rapids, MI
  • Activities: U-pick apples, corn maze, petting farm, wagon rides, bakery, winery, and gift store.
  • Season: Open mid-September to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee for U-pick.
  • Unique Features: A century-old family farm with over 35 apple varieties and a winery offering unique ciders.
  • Important Info: Located near Frederik Meijer Gardens. Ideal for combining with other Grand Rapids attractions.
  • Website: robinettes.com

3. Schwallier’s Country Basket

  • Location: Sparta, MI
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, corn maze, petting farm, cow train, and a farm market with cider and baked goods.
  • Season: Open mid-August to late October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $12 per peck; some activities require tickets.
  • Unique Features: Offers 15 apple varieties on dwarf trees, making picking easy for kids.
  • Important Info: Located on the Fruit Ridge, known for ideal apple-growing conditions. Check for group reservations.
  • Website: schwallierscountrybasket.com

4. Fruit Ridge Hayrides & Apple Orchard

  • Location: Kent City, MI
  • Activities: U-pick apples, horse-drawn wagon rides, corn maze, petting zoo, pony rides, and a farm market.
  • Season: Open mid-September to late October, weekends 10 AM to 6 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; activities $5–$10.
  • Unique Features: Features a “pig train” and small trees for easy picking, perfect for young children.
  • Important Info: Offers 12 apple varieties, including Fuji and Honeycrisp. Reservations required for groups.
  • Website: fruitridgehayrides.com

Minnesota: Top Apple Orchards

1. Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest

  • Location: Jordan, MN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, corn maze, petting zoo, apple cannons, giant inflatable pumpkin jumping pad, hayrides, and a cider barn.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 10 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10–$15 admission includes activities; apple picking extra.
  • Unique Features: Home to the first commercial Honeycrisp planting, with a 65-foot inflatable pumpkin pad and corn kernel pit.
  • Important Info: Multiple locations in Lake City, Galesville, and Eau Claire. Check the website for specific activities by location.
  • Website: minnesotaharvest.net

2. Aamodt’s Apple Farm

  • Location: Stillwater, MN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, hayrides, corn maze, petting zoo, winery, and cider house with famous cider donuts.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 10 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10 per bag for apple picking; additional fees for activities.
  • Unique Features: Offers a winery with apple-based wines and a pay-in-advance apple-picking system.
  • Important Info: Free admission to the grounds. Check the website for apple variety availability.
  • Website: aamodtsapplefarm.com

3. Apple Jack Orchards

  • Location: Delano, MN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pumpkins, and sunflowers, corn maze, petting zoo, low ropes course, and a cafe with BBQ and donuts.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 10 AM to 5 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10–$15 admission on weekends; apple picking starts at $12 per peck.
  • Unique Features: Known for hard-to-find apples like SweeTango and Chestnut Crab, plus a kid-friendly ropes course.
  • Important Info: Free admission Monday–Friday. Check the website for daily apple availability.
  • Website: applejackorchards.com

4. LuceLine Orchard

  • Location: Watertown, MN
  • Activities: U-pick apples, 30-acre corn maze, hayrides, apple cannon, petting zoo, live music, and mini donuts.
  • Season: Open August 30 to October, Wednesday–Friday 10 AM to 5 PM, Saturday–Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM.
  • Cost: Free admission; $10–$15 for activities or wristbands; apple picking priced by weight.
  • Unique Features: Features a historic 1907 barn gift shop and locally made honey from onsite hives.
  • Important Info: Offers private wagon rides and bonfires. Check for live music schedules.
  • Website: lucelineorchard.com

Missouri: Top Apple Orchards

1. Eckert’s Orchard

  • Location: Belleville, IL (serving Missouri)
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pumpkins, and berries, corn maze, hayrides, petting zoo, and a country store with pies and cider.
  • Season: Open August to October, 9 AM to 7 PM daily.
  • Cost: $15–$20 admission includes activities; apple picking extra.
  • Unique Features: A multi-state operation with a large festival atmosphere, offering wagon rides and seasonal events.
  • Important Info: Popular for St. Louis-area families. Reservations recommended for U-pick.
  • Website: eckerts.com

2. Centennial Farms

  • Location: Augusta, MO
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, farm market with cider and jams, and historic barn tours.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A historic farm with a focus on heirloom apple varieties and a quaint, low-key vibe.
  • Important Info: Ideal for those seeking a quieter experience. Check for apple availability.
  • Website: centennialfarms.biz

3. Rombach Farms

  • Location: Chesterfield, MO
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, hayrides, corn maze, and a farm store with cider and baked goods.
  • Season: Open September to October, 10 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10 admission; apple picking priced by weight.
  • Unique Features: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and homemade apple butter.
  • Important Info: Offers school field trips and fall festivals. Check social media for updates.
  • Website: rombachfarms.com

4. Schweizer Orchards

  • Location: St. Joseph, MO
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm market with cider and pies, and weekend hayrides.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $12 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A smaller orchard with a focus on quality apples and a relaxed, rural setting.
  • Important Info: Great for Kansas City-area visitors. Call ahead for apple variety updates.
  • Website: schweizerorchards.com

Nebraska: Top Apple Orchards

1. Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard

  • Location: Nebraska City, NE
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pears, and pumpkins, vineyard tours, farm market with cider and jams, and sensory-friendly events.
  • Season: Open September to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10–$15 for apple picking; some activities included with admission.
  • Unique Features: Offers 40 acres of fields and whimsical apple-themed photo spots, plus Sensory Saturdays for a quieter experience.
  • Important Info: Known for its homemade cider and vineyard. Check for festival dates like the AppleJack Festival.
  • Website: kimmelorchard.org

2. Martin’s Hillside Orchard

  • Location: Ceresco, NE
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm market with cider and baked goods, and hayrides.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A family-run orchard with a focus on heirloom apples and a cozy, small-farm vibe.
  • Important Info: Ideal for a low-key visit. Check social media for apple availability.
  • Website: martinshillsideorchard.com

3. Arbor Day Farm

  • Location: Nebraska City, NE
  • Activities: U-pick apples, tree adventure trails, farm market with cider and preserves, and educational exhibits.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 9 AM to 5 PM daily.
  • Cost: $8–$12 admission includes activities; apple picking extra.
  • Unique Features: Part of the Arbor Day Foundation, offering tree-focused educational experiences alongside apple picking.
  • Important Info: Great for families interested in nature. Reservations recommended for U-pick.
  • Website: arbordayfarm.org

4. Union Orchard

  • Location: Union, NE
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, hayrides, farm store with cider and pies, and a corn maze.
  • Season: Open September to October, 10 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10 admission; apple picking priced by weight.
  • Unique Features: Known for its scenic views and family-friendly fall festivals.
  • Important Info: Popular for Omaha-area families. Check the website for event schedules.
  • Website: unionorchard.com

North Dakota: Top Apple Orchards

1. Dakota Orchard

  • Location: Bismarck, ND
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm market with cider and baked goods, and hayrides.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A smaller orchard with a focus on cold-hardy apple varieties suited to North Dakota’s climate.
  • Important Info: Limited activities; ideal for apple-focused visits. Check for apple availability.
  • Website: No official website; check local listings or call (701) 223-5678.

2. Prairie Sky Orchard

  • Location: Minot, ND
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm store with cider and jams, and weekend tractor rides.
  • Season: Open late August to October, weekends 10 AM to 6 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $12 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: Offers unique apple varieties adapted to the northern plains, with a cozy farm store.
  • Important Info: Great for a low-key experience. Call ahead for picking schedules.
  • Website: prairieskyorchard.com

3. Red Barn Orchard

  • Location: Mandan, ND
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm market with homemade pies, and hayrides.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 11 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A family-run orchard with a focus on community events and homemade treats.
  • Important Info: Check social media for updates on apple varieties and events.
  • Website: No official website; check local listings or call (701) 663-4589.

4. Apple Creek Orchard

  • Location: Bismarck, ND
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm store with cider and baked goods, and picnic areas.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: Offers a relaxed, picnic-friendly setting with scenic views.
  • Important Info: Small orchard; call ahead for apple availability.
  • Website: No official website; check local listings or call (701) 255-1234.

Ohio: Top Apple Orchards

1. Apple Hill Orchards

  • Location: Mansfield, OH
  • Activities: U-pick apples, pumpkins, and berries, corn maze, hayrides, and a farm market with cider and donuts.
  • Season: Open August to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $12 per peck; some activities included with admission.
  • Unique Features: A historic orchard from the Great Depression era with over 30 apple varieties, including Jonalicious.
  • Important Info: Popular for its scenic setting and family-friendly events. Check the website for picking schedules.
  • Website: applehillorchards.com

2. Lynd Fruit Farm

  • Location: Pataskala, OH
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, corn maze, wagon rides, and a farm market with cider and pies.
  • Season: Open September to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10–$15 admission includes activities; apple picking extra.
  • Unique Features: Known for its massive corn maze and wide variety of apples, including Honeycrisp.
  • Important Info: Offers school field trips and fall festivals. Reservations recommended for U-pick.
  • Website: lyndfruitfarm.com

3. Branstool Orchards

  • Location: Utica, OH
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm market with cider and baked goods, and weekend hayrides.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A family-run orchard with a focus on quality apples and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Important Info: Great for Columbus-area families. Check for apple variety updates.
  • Website: branstoolorchards.com

4. CherryHawk Farm

  • Location: Marysville, OH
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm store with cider and jams, and picnic areas.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $12 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: Offers a quiet, family-friendly experience with a focus on organic practices.
  • Important Info: Ideal for a low-key visit. Call ahead for apple availability.
  • Website: cherryhawkfarm.com

South Dakota: Top Apple Orchards

1. Country Apple Orchard

  • Location: Harrisburg, SD
  • Activities: U-pick apples, fall festival with jumping pillows, petting zoo, apple cannon, corn maze, and a candy store.
  • Season: Open August 27 to October, Wednesday–Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM; Fall Festival Friday–Sunday.
  • Cost: $12.50–$15.50 admission for Fall Festival; apple picking priced separately.
  • Unique Features: Features South Dakota’s largest jumping pillows and a historic orchard since 1984.
  • Important Info: Offers party tent rentals and school field trips. Check the website for apple updates.
  • Website: countryappleorchard.com

2. McCrory Gardens

  • Location: Brookings, SD
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm market with cider and baked goods, and garden tours.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: Combines apple picking with stunning botanical gardens, offering a unique experience.
  • Important Info: Affiliated with South Dakota State University. Check for apple availability.
  • Website: mccrorygardens.com

3. Belle Fourche Orchard

  • Location: Belle Fourche, SD
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm store with cider and jams, and hayrides.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: A small, family-run orchard with a focus on cold-hardy apples.
  • Important Info: Ideal for a quiet visit. Call ahead for picking schedules.
  • Website: No official website; check local listings or call (605) 892-3456.

4. Black Hills Orchard

  • Location: Rapid City, SD
  • Activities: U-pick apples, farm market with cider and pies, and picnic areas.
  • Season: Open September to October, weekends 10 AM to 5 PM.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: Offers scenic views of the Black Hills and a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
  • Important Info: Check social media for apple variety updates.
  • Website: No official website; check local listings or call (605) 343-1234.

Wisconsin: Top Apple Orchards

1. Apple Holler

  • Location: Sturtevant, WI
  • Activities: U-pick apples, peaches, and pears, hayrides, corn maze, petting zoo, restaurant, bakery, and hard cider bar.
  • Season: Open August to November, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $15–$20 admission includes activities; apple picking starts at $12 per peck.
  • Unique Features: Features a 78-acre farm with 150-year-old oak forests and over 40 apple varieties. Voted one of the top 10 orchards in the U.S.
  • Important Info: Offers all-day breakfast and guided tractor tours. Great for Milwaukee and Chicago visitors.
  • Website: appleholler.com

2. Elegant Farmer

  • Location: Mukwonago, WI
  • Activities: U-pick apples and pumpkins, corn maze, hayrides, pony rides, and a farm store with famous apple pie baked in a paper bag.
  • Season: Open August to October, 9 AM to 6 PM daily.
  • Cost: $10 admission; apple picking priced by weight.
  • Unique Features: Known for its unique apple pie baked in a paper bag, a Wisconsin staple.
  • Important Info: Offers a lively atmosphere with hot sandwiches and local produce. Check for festival dates.
  • Website: elegantfarmer.com

3. Sunrise Orchards

  • Location: Gays Mills, WI
  • Activities: U-pick apples, horse-shaped tire swings, lawn bowling, apple slush, dog walk park, and a produce stand.
  • Season: Open late August to October, 9 AM to 5 PM daily.
  • Cost: Apple picking starts at $10 per peck; no admission fee.
  • Unique Features: Spans 300 acres with scenic bluffs, offering unique activities like lawn bowling and a dog-friendly park.
  • Important Info: Hosts cheese curd weekend and community chili dinner. Check the website for event schedules.
  • Website: sunriseapples.com

4. Oneida Apple Orchard

  • Location: Green Bay, WI
  • Activities: U-pick apples, cultural tours of a traditional longhouse, petting zoo, barrel races, and a cider press.
  • Season: Open September to October, 9 AM to 5 PM daily.
  • Cost: $7–$10 admission; apple picking priced separately.
  • Unique Features: Owned by the Oneida Nation, offering a cultural experience alongside apple picking.
  • Important Info: Plan a visit during the Oneida Apple Fest for extra activities like the best apple pie contest.
  • Website: oneidaappleorchard.com

Tips for Visiting Midwest Apple Orchards

  • Check Apple Availability: Apple varieties ripen at different times, so check orchard websites or social media for updates.
  • Dress for the Weather: Wear comfortable shoes and layers, as Midwest fall weather can be unpredictable.
  • Bring Cash: Some orchards, especially for U-pick, may require cash payments.
  • Plan for Crowds: Weekends are busiest; visit on weekdays for a quieter experience.
  • Make a Day of It: Many orchards offer nearby attractions like wineries, petting farms, small carnival rides, souvenir stores, and donut shops, perfect for extending your trip.

The Midwest’s apple orchards offer more than just fruit—they’re gateways to unforgettable fall memories.

From Minnesota’s giant jumping pads to Wisconsin’s cultural experiences, each state has unique orchards waiting to be explored.

Grab your family and friends and head to one of these top picks for a crisp, delicious adventure!

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Midwest Link Journal ∙ MLJ