Where To Go Apple Picking in the Northeast

We’re sharing some of our favorite apple-picking orchards across the Northeast, from Connecticut to Vermont, so you always know where to go to pick apples this fall.

Once you’ve filled your bags, put that harvest to work with easy recipes for cider, pie and more.

Heading out to an orchard this fall? Join AAA before you go, so help is always close by if your road trip hits a bump.

Apple-Picking Orchards in the Northeast

Quick Reference Guide

Connecticut

Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard

Shelton

Known for their dwarf apple trees that make for super easy picking for folks of all ages, Beardsley’s has been a fall staple since 1849. With over 14,000 trees and a wide variety of apples to choose from, you’ll certainly have your pick!

Lyman Orchards

Middlefield

Come for the superb you-pick apple orchard, stay for the annual themed corn maze, horse-drawn hayrides and stocked farm marketplace for all the essentials. A visit to Lyman is a must in the fall.

Maine

Treworgy Orchards

Levant

Who wouldn’t want to pick apples on 42 acres of scenic countryside? At Treworgy Orchards, you can. Since its inception in 1983, its apple-picking orchard experience has been the main focus, and that dedication makes their apples some of the best in the area.

McDougal Orchards

Springvale

As a seventh generation family farm, McDougal Orchards specializes in growing only the highest-quality apples. That legacy paired with acres of scenic countryside and a beautiful historic home as the backdrop, apple picking here is an unmatched experience.

Massachusetts

Honey Pot Hill Orchards

Stow

Boasting dozens of apple varieties, your favorite is sure to be found here. Founded in 1926, this fourth-generation family farm spans nearly 200 acres and has earned a reputation as one of the region’s most beloved fall destinations, complete with hayrides, farm animals and a hedge maze to wander after you’ve filled your bag. Pair your apples with fresh-picked pears and blueberries, then swing by the farm store for a warm cider doughnut before you go.

Tougas Family Farm

Northborough

Consistently one of the most-reviewed apple orchards in Massachusetts, it’s clear that Tougas Family Farm is a steadfast frontrunner for apple picking in Massachusetts, and considering their beautiful grounds and quality of the apples they grow, we’d agree.

New Hampshire

Mack’s Apples

Londonderry

As the largest pick-your-own destination in New Hampshire, there’s certainly endless charm at Mack’s Apples, between the whimsical displays across the farm and the sheer enormity of their apple offerings.

New York

Masker Orchards

Warwick

If you’re searching for a memorable apple-picking orchard experience for the whole family, look no further. Masker Orchards allows you to drive right up to the apple trees you want to pick from and have your own picnic among the groves. It doesn’t get more picturesque than that.

Rhode Island

Sweet Berry Farm

Middletown

What began as a hobby farm and quickly turned into one of the most popular in the state, Sweet Berry Farm offers a plethora of beautiful pick-your-own offerings, including flowers.

Barden Family Orchard

North Scituate

After growing fruit trees for over 90 years, it’s no surprise that the team at Barden Family Orchard are experts in their field. Enjoy a huge variety of apples to pick from surrounded by the peaceful surroundings of the western Rhode Island countryside.

Vermont

Shelburne Orchards

Shelburne

At Shelburne Orchards, not only can you pick your own apples, you can also grab some pre-picked from their market or even buy your very own apple tree sapling right on the premises. Talk about a-peel-ing.

Apple Picking FAQs

When is the best time to go apple picking in the Northeast?

Late September through mid-October hits the sweet spot across most of the Northeast, when peak varieties are ripe and fall foliage is at its best. Many orchards open as early as late August for early varieties like Gala and Ginger Gold, and some stay open into November for late-season apples like Crispin and Braeburn. Since exact timing shifts with weather each year, call your chosen orchard or check its website before you head out.

How much does apple picking usually cost?

Most orchards charge by the bag, box or pound rather than an entry fee, and prices typically fall between $20 and $40 for a half-bushel or peck bag that yields around 10 to 20 pounds of apples. Some orchards add a small admission fee for extras like hayrides, mazes or petting zoos. Cash is still king at many smaller family farms, so it’s worth bringing some along even if the farm store takes cards.

What should you bring to an apple orchard?

Comfortable closed-toe shoes are a must, since orchard rows often mean uneven, sometimes muddy ground. Layers help too, since fall mornings run cool but afternoons can warm up fast. Bring cash for smaller farms, a reusable bag or wagon for hauling your haul, and sunscreen even on cloudy days. A picnic blanket is a smart add if your orchard allows outdoor dining among the trees.

How do you pick an apple correctly without damaging the tree?

Cup the apple in your palm and gently twist while lifting up and away from the branch, rather than pulling straight down. A ripe apple releases easily with this motion. Yanking or tugging can damage the fruit spur, which is the small stem that produces next year’s apples on that same spot.

How long do fresh-picked apples last?

Stored in the refrigerator, fresh apples generally stay crisp for four to six weeks, and some firmer varieties like Northern Spy or Rome can last even longer. Keep them in a perforated bag in the crisper drawer, away from other produce, since apples release ethylene gas that speeds ripening in nearby fruits and vegetables. At room temperature, plan to eat them within about a week.

Can you bring your dog apple picking?

Pet policies vary widely from farm to farm, and many orchards restrict animals for food-safety reasons or because of on-site livestock. Check the specific orchard’s website or call ahead before loading up the car, since policies can also change seasonally around petting zoos or corn maze events.

What’s the difference between a farm stand apple and a pick-your-own apple?

Farm stand apples are pre-picked by staff and typically sorted for size and appearance, offering convenience if you’re short on time. Pick-your-own apples let you choose exactly what looks best straight off the branch, and many visitors find the fruit tastes noticeably fresher since it hasn’t sat in storage. Pick-your-own is also simply part of the fall experience, offering the walk through the orchard as much as the apples themselves.

Apple Recipes

Now that you’ve gathered your goods, it’s time to enjoy! From sweet to savory, here are a few fun, creative and versatile recipes to try.

Preserving

Apples from the supermarket are alright, but they never taste as good as when they’re freshly picked from the tree. The good news is you can put that flavor into a jar and revisit it all year long. While apples are at their autumn best, cook up a big batch of applesauce or apple butter, then follow the instructions below to learn how to safely can and preserve.

Make your jarred apple goods now and serve on Thanksgiving. To give as gifts for the holidays, customize with labels and dress up by placing a square of patterned fabric over the lid and fasten with a ribbon or twine.

• Apple Butter
• Homemade Applesauce
• Step-by-Step-Guide to Canning at Home

Drink Your Apples

Hot or cold, mulled or plain, apple cider is a seasonal staple. Here are a few more delicious and creative ways to drink cider this season other than straight from the glass.

• Hot Mulled Apple Cider
• Shrunken Heads in Cider – a fun addition to any Halloween party!
• Apple Cider Floats

Apples for Dinner (or Breakfast or Lunch)

From full meals to side dishes, sweeten up your next meal with apples.

• Roasted Apple and Winter Squash Soup
• Warm Cinnamon Apples — goes great with pork or with breakfast.
• Savory Baked Apples
• Chicken Normandy (chicken with apples)
• Apple Chips — a naturally sweet snack or salad mix-in. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar before baking for extra flavor.

More Than Apple Pie

When it comes to desserts, apple pie is king. You probably already have a go-to apple pie recipe, so we’ve provided an assortment of other apple indulgences. Deep-fried apple fries, anyone?

• Maple-Apple-Upside Down Cake
• Salted Caramel Apple Hand Pies
• Apple Fries With Vanilla Whipped Cream
• Caramel Apple Pops
• Easy Apple Crisp
• Apple Cider Doughnuts

Apple Applications

Which apple is the best pick for your recipe? Click a category to see.

AAA members get 24/7 roadside assistance wherever the season takes you. Join AAA now.

Which orchard are you heading to this apple-picking season? What’s your favorite apple recipe? Tell us in the comments below. 

Last updated on September 4, 2026 by AAA Staff