Experience the magic of apple picking near NYC this autumn.
As autumn’s crisp air envelops the Northeast, the vibrant tapestry of autumn foliage calls to city dwellers, inviting them to escape the urban bustle. For those yearning for a delightful retreat, apple picking near NYC provides a magical experience filled with family-friendly activities, seasonal delicacies, and the simple joy of harvesting fresh fruit.
From charming orchards to lively farms, this beloved tradition enchants both locals and visitors, fostering cherished memories as you gather a bounty of succulent apples. Whether you crave the sweetness of Honeycrisps or the tartness of Granny Smiths, a diverse array of options awaits, ensuring a fantastic outing for all ages.
As you explore the scenic landscapes and embrace the spirit of the season, you’ll discover why this timeless activity remains a favorite among families and friends alike.
Table of Contents Show
Discover Apple Picking Near NYC
A Guide to Apple Picking Near NYC
Autumn is the perfect season for adventure and exploration. Our guide to apple picking near NYC aims to inspire you to embrace new experiences and create lasting traditions with your loved ones. Whether you’re discovering hidden orchards or indulging in seasonal treats, we hope to ignite your spirit of adventure and deepen your connections with family and friends. Get ready to make unforgettable memories as you venture into the colorful world of fall!
1. Stone Ridge Orchard
- Location: 3012 State Route 213—Stone Ridge
- Phone: (845) 687-2587
- Website: Stone Ridge Orchard
Stone Ridge Orchard, a 200-year-old farm in the heart of the Rondout Valley, has long been a staple in New York’s Hudson Valley. With a rich history of fruit-bearing trees, its commitment to sustainability reflects modern agricultural practices. The orchard offers over a dozen varieties of apples, including classics like McIntosh, Cortland, and Stayman. However, recent innovations have introduced newer apple varieties that are grown on smaller, more densely planted trees, which help conserve soil health while producing larger, sweeter fruits.
In addition to apple picking, visitors can enjoy Asian pears, and during the fall season, the orchard offers U-pick opportunities from Labor Day through October. Stone Ridge also boasts a farmstand selling locally sourced produce, baked goods, and cider—both traditional and hard. On weekends in September and October, the orchard’s farm bar serves cider flights, along with New York craft beer, wine, and cocktails. It’s a perfect spot for a weekend getaway, offering scenic beauty and family-friendly activities
2. Fishkill Farms
- Location: 9 Fishkill Farm Road—Hopewell Junction [About one hour and 45 minutes away from NYC by car]
- Phone: (845) 897-4377
- Website: Fishkill Farms
Fishkill Farms offers a unique experience that blends its rich agricultural heritage with eco-conscious farming practices. Spanning over 270 acres, this family-owned farm in the heart of the Hudson Valley has been growing apples for more than a century, with about half of its apple trees certified organic. Varieties like Pixie Crunch, Suncrisp, and Shizuka showcase the farm’s dedication to sustainable and ecologically responsible methods. Their Treasury Cider, a standout feature, is crafted from a mix of heirloom, bittersweet, and dessert apples, all grown and fermented on-site. The cider’s name pays homage to the farm’s deep-rooted history, referencing Robert Morgenthau, former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury and the farm owner’s grandfather.
Visitors can enjoy tastings at the farm’s Cider Bar, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Catskills, or savor farm-to-table meals at their outdoor grill. Fishkill Farms also hosts live music and seasonal events, making it more than just a spot for apple picking—it’s a full sensory experience that connects guests to the farm’s legacy and the land itself
3. Masker Orchards
- Location: 45 Ball Road—Warwick [About one hour and 45 minutes away from NYC by car; three hours by train]
- Phone: (845) 986-1058
- Website: Masker Orchards
At Masker Orchards, apple picking is all about making your autumn experience effortless and enjoyable. With their drive-up feature, you can park right next to the trees, which is excellent for a laid-back day with friends or family. Open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM, it is easy to make an impromptu visit—no need to worry about seasonal closures or complicated access. Best of all, you only pay for the apples you take home, and you are welcome to taste-test while you pick!
Before heading out, visit their website to see which apple varieties are ripe, and grab a map to guide you to your favorites. Each row is whimsically named after sweet treats like ‘Strudel’ and ‘Pie.’ Tune in to their local radio station, FM 87.9, while you are on the farm to get live updates on which areas are bursting with the juiciest fruit. Free admission and parking make it an affordable day trip, and pets are welcome to tag along.
Weekends are even more fun with pony rides, haunted houses, and family-friendly activities, adding a festive atmosphere to the stunning backdrop of the Hudson Valley.
4. Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard
- Location: 130 Hardscrabble Road—North Salem [About 90 minutes away from NYC by car]
- Phone: (914) 485-1210
- Website: Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard
At Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard in North Salem, autumn brings an array of exciting activities for all ages. The farm hosts vibrant weekend events with live music, tractor-pulled hayrides, and plenty of seasonal fun in their scenic pumpkin patch. Kids will be delighted with pony rides, face painting, and bouncy houses, while food enthusiasts can sample offerings from various local food vendors.
Do not miss the farm’s delicious apple cider doughnuts, an autumn favorite. Apple picking starts around Labor Day, allowing visitors to pluck fresh apples straight from the orchard, making it an ideal day trip for families looking to embrace the harvest season.
For those seeking a more enriching experience, Harvest Moon offers educational farm tours, sip-and-paint workshops, and even bonsai grooming classes, making it a great spot for creatives and green thumbs alike. The farm’s Community Supported Agriculture [CSA] program also allows visitors to engage more deeply by contributing to sustainable farming practices. Stop by the farm store to grab some of their famous apple cider before heading home.
Conveniently located just an hour’s drive from Midtown Manhattan, Harvest Moon Farm is also accessible via Metro-North, with a short cab ride from the Croton Falls station. It is an ideal escape for city dwellers craving fresh air and classic fall fun.
5. Greig Farm
- Location: 227 Pitcher Lane—Red Hook
- Phone: (845) 758-8007
- Website: Greig Farm
At Greig Farm in the heart of the Hudson Valley, apple picking comes with stunning views of the Catskill Mountains and a rich variety of apples. The 300-acre farm grows 11 apple varieties, including seasonal favorites like Ginger Gold, Jonagold, Stayman-Winesap, and Blondee. But the fun does not stop at picking your own fruit—Greig Farm offers so much more. Visitors can explore an indoor market featuring local Hudson Valley products, indulge in freshly made apple cider donuts, and browse through a vibrant craft market showcasing handmade goods.
For a unique experience, you can visit the koi pond or extend your stay by booking a night in the converted schoolhouse on the property, offering a cozy, rustic getaway. Additionally, the farm is committed to sustainable farming, with a focus on eco-friendly practices, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate both agriculture and a picturesque retreat in the valley.
For a taste of autumn, visit their farm-to-table restaurant, which features locally sourced ingredients from the farm and other nearby producers.
6. Milk Pail Farm and Orchard
- Location: 50 Horsemill Lane—Water Mill
- Phone: (631) 537-2565
- Website: Milk Pail Farm and Orchard
At Milk Pail Farm and Orchard in the Hamptons, families can enjoy a quintessential autumn experience with easy-to-reach dwarf apple trees, an exciting experience for young kids to pick from. The farm grows over 20 varieties of apples, including favorites like Honeycrisp and Fuji, from September through October. Beyond apple picking, the farm offers more seasonal delights. Visitors can hop on a wagon-led tour for a scenic exploration of the orchard and surrounding farmland. Do not miss the Milk Pail country store, where you can sip freshly pressed cider and browse locally sourced goods.
Milk Pail’s sprawling pumpkin patch is another highlight, featuring more than 60 different types of gourds, with some pumpkins tipping the scale at a whopping 150 pounds. With its family-friendly charm and a deep-rooted history that started as a dairy farm, Milk Pail is an ideal spot for an autumn outing in the Hamptons. Be sure to plan your visit, as the orchard is a popular weekend destination for both locals and visitors.
7. Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm
- Location: 1335 White Hill Road—Yorktown Heights [About 1 hour by car from Midtown Manhattan]
- Phone: (914) 245-5111
- Website: Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm
Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm, nestled in Yorktown Heights, is marking its 108th year of operation, inviting visitors to enjoy the fruits of its rich agricultural heritage. The orchard will officially open for apple picking in August, welcoming families and friends to experience this beloved autumn tradition. While you do not need to make a reservation to visit, groups of two adults need to purchase at least one one-peck bag to collect their apples.
To maximize your picking adventure, it is a good idea to check the farm’s ripening schedule via phone or email, as the availability of different apple varieties fluctuates throughout the season. With its picturesque landscape and friendly atmosphere, Wilkens is a stunning destination for those looking to embrace the autumn spirit.
Families can enjoy a relaxing wagon ride to and from the orchard, adding a fun touch to the day’s adventure. Beyond apple picking, Wilkens also offers a variety of seasonal treats, including freshly baked pies and their famous apple cider donuts at the bakery. The farm’s market also sells homemade goods and artisanal products, making it the ideal place for an autumn day trip.
8. Minard’s Family Farms
- Location: 250 Hurds Road—Clintondale [About two hours away from NYC by car]
- Phone: (845) 282-3088
- Website: Minard’s Family Farms
Minard’s Family Farms is a delightful destination for families seeking a day of autumn fun. This engaging farm offers a myriad of activities designed to keep kids entertained, including a buzzing bee train, a colorful Chalk Bus where little ones can leave their artistic mark, and an impressive tire climbing wall. The giant bounce pillow is a favorite among energetic visitors, and the petting zoo provides a chance for hands-on interaction with friendly animals.
The sprawling 2.5-acre corn maze adds to the excitement, inviting explorers to navigate its twists and turns. October is the prime time to visit, as the orchard is bursting with ripe apples and pumpkins ready for picking. Families can roam over 100 acres of apple trees, where various apple varieties await. Do not forget to stop by the farm stand, where you can indulge in freshly baked goods, homemade jams, and tasty snacks, including hot dogs and fries, to refuel after a day of excitement.
9. Outhouse Orchards
- Location: 139 Hardscrabble Road—North Salem [About 90 minutes away from NYC by car]
- Phone: (914) 277-3188
- Website: Outhouse Orchards
Outhouse Orchards in North Salem is more than just a destination for apple picking. It is a delightful autumn experience that captures the essence of the season. With a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, this charming farm invites visitors to immerse themselves in its autumn Festival during September and October. Families can enjoy a range of activities, from lively rubber duck races to bubble-blowing fun for the little ones, and scenic hayrides that cater to all ages. Food enthusiasts will appreciate the wood-fired pizza and house-made hard cider, a must for refueling after a day of adventure.
The orchard boasts an impressive selection of 12 apple varieties, including the crisp McIntosh and sweet Jonamac, alongside delectable pears and peaches. This makes it an ideal spot for both seasoned apple lovers and those new to the experience. If you are planning a visit, the pick-your-own season runs from August through November 1, 2024. Weekend reservations are necessary, while weekdays welcome walk-ins, ensuring flexibility for visitors. For those relying on public transport, Outhouse Orchards is easily accessible via Metro-North, with a short cab ride from Croton Falls station.
10. Lawrence Farms Orchards
- Location: 306 Frozen Ridge Road—Newburgh
- Phone: (845) 562-4268
- Website: Lawrence Farms Orchards
Lawrence Farms Orchards in Newburgh is a vibrant destination for those seeking a taste of fall, offering an impressive selection of over a dozen apple varieties, including Empire, Cortland, and Macintosh. But this orchard is more than just apples—it is a cornucopia of seasonal delights. From late September through October, you can explore fields brimming with sweet corn, cabbage, winter squash, and an array of colorful gourds, making it a wonderful spot to gather fresh produce for autumn meals.
Beyond picking your own fruits and vegetables, visitors can enjoy various family-friendly activities, including hayrides and farm tours. The orchard encourages community engagement through educational programs about sustainable farming practices and the importance of local agriculture. For those looking to make a day of it, the scenic landscape and picnic areas provide a perfect backdrop to relax and enjoy the bounty of the harvest. Lawrence Farms Orchards is dedicated to providing a wholesome experience that celebrates the beauty of the Hudson Valley and the joy of farming.
11. Kelder’s Farm
- Location: 5755 US Route 209—Kerhonkson
- Phone: (845) 626-7137
- Website: Kelder’s Farm
Kelder’s Farm is a lively destination for families seeking a fun day of apple picking and seasonal activities. The orchard offers a variety of pick-your-own options, including apples, pumpkins, and flowers. Kids can explore the petting zoo, tackle the corn maze, and bounce around on a giant jumping pillow, ensuring plenty of entertainment for the little ones. Once the fruit-picking is done, families can challenge each other at the mini-golf course, adding a friendly competition to the outing.
One highlight is the farm’s impressive collection of quirky attractions, including the world’s largest garden gnome, which makes for a fantastic photo opportunity. Open daily during the autumn season, Kelder’s also hosts seasonal events, such as apple-themed festivals and community gatherings. The farm’s commitment to sustainability and local farming practices enhances the overall experience, making it a great spot to connect with nature and support local agriculture.
12. Stuart’s Fruit Farm
- Location: 62 Granite Springs Road—Granite Springs [About 90 minutes away from NYC by car]
- Phone: (914) 245-2784
- Website: Stuart’s Fruit Farm
Stuart’s Fruit Farm, a cherished family-run establishment since 1828, offers a delightful blend of autumn activities in Westchester County, New York. This historical farm features an impressive selection of over 20 apple varieties ready for picking starting the weekend after Labor Day. In addition to apples, visitors can enjoy fresh-baked treats from the on-site bakery, known for its delectable cider donuts and pies.
What sets Stuart’s apart is the welcoming atmosphere. There are no entrance or parking fees, so guests pay only for what they pick and purchase. Scenic hayrides add to the charm, running on weekends and providing a picturesque tour through the vibrant fall foliage. The journey to the farm through Granite Springs is equally enchanting, showcasing the region’s stunning landscape as the trees transform into a tapestry of gold and orange hues.
This cash or check-only farm is about an hour’s drive from Midtown Manhattan, making it a convenient getaway for city dwellers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the harvest season.
13. Apple Ridge Orchards
- Location: 101 Jessup Road—Warwick
- Phone: (845) 987-7717
- Website: Apple Ridge Orchards
Apple Ridge Orchards transforms into a vibrant autumn destination where families can immerse themselves in seasonal fun. Guests can pick apples while enjoying a variety of farm-fresh delights, including cider donuts made from the orchard’s homegrown fruit. Unique experiences abound, such as observing honey bees at work in the Observation Hive and sampling their sweet products. The orchard also hosts BBQ weekends throughout October, making it an ideal spot for tasty eats.
In addition to these activities, families can look forward to movie nights in October, featuring kid-friendly films like “Spookley the Square Pumpkin,” providing a perfect opportunity for starlit gatherings. Remember, the admission and pick-your-own activities are cash only, ensuring a straightforward experience for visitors. Apple Ridge Orchards offers a memorable day in the great outdoors, complete with charming autumn scenery and delightful flavors.
14. The Orchards of Concklin
- Location: 2 South Mountain Road—Pomona [About one hour away from NYC by car; two hours by train]
- Phone: (845) 354-0369
- Website: The Orchards of Concklin
The Orchards of Concklin, located in the charming town of Pomona, offers an inviting escape from the city for a delightful weekend adventure. Guests can indulge in a diverse selection of apple varieties, including the popular Ludacrisp, which adds a unique twist to the traditional apple picking experience. Their bakery is a standout, featuring mouthwatering treats like classic apple pies and creative peanut butter custard pies, excellent for holiday celebrations. In addition to their farm activities, the orchards actively participate in local farmers’ markets in Bronxville, Riverdale, and White Plains, bringing fresh produce and baked goods to a wider audience.
With over ten generations of history, The Orchards of Concklin has become a beloved institution in Rockland County. Apple picking will begin in September, with popular varieties like Macintosh, Honeycrisp, and Autumn Crisp available early in the season. Each guest over three years old is required to purchase a half-peck bag, ensuring a fun and rewarding picking experience.
15. Dr. Davies Farm
- Location: 306 Route 304—Congers [About one hour away from NYC by car]
- Phone: (845) 268-7020
- Website: Dr. Davies Farm
Dr. Davies Farm offers a quintessential experience for apple and pumpkin picking enthusiasts. Established in 1891, this historic farm is managed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Davies family, who have refined the operation over the years. Visitors pay an admission fee of $17, which is cash-only and can explore the sprawling grounds featuring more than 5,000 apple trees with 27 distinct varieties. For those unsure of where to start, the farm’s website includes a “Meet Our Apples” section that highlights each type, complete with vivid photos, names, ripening schedules, and tasting notes.
The 65-acre farm opens its gates for daily apple picking on Saturday, August 31, 2024. Guests can rent picking poles to reach higher apples, and the farm strives to accommodate visitors with disabilities—calling ahead for specific arrangements is recommended. Leashed dogs are welcome to join the fun. An ATM is available on-site, and parking is complimentary. Admission includes a half-peck bag per guest, ensuring a rewarding day of harvesting fresh produce.
Concluding Discover Apple Picking Near NYC
Apple Picking Near NYC
As you map out your autumn adventures, do not overlook the enchanting experience of apple picking near NYC. With a diverse array of orchards and farms just a short drive or train ride away, your weekends can be filled with fresh produce, stunning autumn scenery, and delightful family fun. each location offers a unique slice of autumn’s magic.
Gather your loved ones and prepare a charming picnic, allowing the day to unfold in the embrace of nature’s beauty. The allure of apple picking near NYC invites you to indulge in a day filled with laughter, connection, and the delightful flavors of autumn. As you wander through the orchards, savor the moment and create cherished memories that will linger long after the last apple is picked.
Ready to embrace the beauty of autumn? Check out our guide and start planning your perfect apple-picking getaway today. Happy picking!