Apple picking is one of the best ways to enjoy fall in New England. Whether you’re looking for a big family outing with hayrides and cider donuts or a quieter orchard where you can take your time, there are plenty of great options across the Merrimack Valley and North Shore.
For the best selection, go earlier in the season, and consider visiting on a weekday if you want to avoid the biggest crowds. It’s also worth checking each farm’s website before heading out, since picking availability and hours can change depending on the weather and what’s ripe. And of course, leave room for the important part: cider donuts, fresh pie, and a gallon of cider to take home and drink or ferment!
Cider Hill Farm is one of my favorite desitnations to take my daughter and it is definitely my new favorite apple picking spot. The 145-acre farm grows more than 60 varieties of apples and offers much more than just apple picking, including cider donuts, hayrides, food trucks, festivals, live music, and a cider bar. It’s an easy choice if you want to turn apple picking into a full day of fall activities.
Tendercrop Farm at Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm offers apple and pumpkin picking in a beautiful historic setting. There’s also a petting zoo, farm stand, and baked goods, making it a good option for families looking for a little more to do after picking.
Russell Orchards is one of the North Shore’s best-known destinations for a fall day. In addition to apples, the farm offers peaches, berries, pumpkins, a winery, bakery, and farm animals. The combination of picking, food, and scenery makes it a particularly popular choice.
The coastal towns of Essex, Beverly, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Rockport, and Gloucester don’t have large traditional pick-your-own orchards, but there are plenty of farm stands and seasonal markets where you can find local apples and cider.
Brooksby Farm is a classic North Shore apple-picking destination, with pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, a farm store, pies, cider, baked goods, animals, and seasonal events. It’s especially well suited to families looking for a traditional fall farm experience.