Discover the Best Apple Picking Spots in Hudson Valley for a Perfect Fall Day

Autumn is that enchanting time of the year when nature dons its vibrant attire, and the Hudson Valley in Orange County, New York, becomes a must-visit destination for apple lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It’s your gateway to the best apple picking spots in Hudson Valley. Where you can revel in the season’s beauty and pick your own crisp apples.

As the leaves start to turn and the air crisps up, the orchards in this picturesque region beckon with the promise of wholesome family fun, scenic beauty, and, of course, the juiciest apples you’ve ever tasted. So, grab your baskets and prepare for an apple-picking adventure like no other! In this guide, we’ll take you through the best apple-picking locations near New York City. Ensuring your fall is nothing short of fantastic.

Why Choose Orange County, NY?

Orange County Tourism Director, Amanda Dana, couldn’t have put it better: “You can take a bite out of the ‘Big Apple,’ but you can PICK your apples here!” With our orchards just an hour north of New York City, a delightful country getaway awaits you. Orange County is home to numerous “U-pick” apple orchards that offer a wide range of activities to make your visit memorable. From pumpkin patches and tractor rides to corn mazes and hard cider tastings, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you can savor more than 50 apple varieties ripening on the trees from late August through October.

1. Penning’s Orchard and Farm Market

Address: 169 Route 94, Warwick

Apple picking season at Penning’s Orchard usually kicks off from August and continues through October. Beyond the joy of apple and peach picking, Penning’s boasts a year-round market brimming with fresh local produce. While you indulge in some retail therapy, your taste buds can revel in a gastronomic journey at the full-service bar and grill. For the adults in the group, a visit to the on-site Pennings Farm Cidery is a must for tantalizing tastings. Don’t forget to unwind in the Beer Garden while the kids have a blast in the play area.

2. Soons Orchard

Address: 23 Soons Circle, New Hampton

At Soons Orchard, the U-pick season begins on Labor Day weekend. Apart from apple picking, immerse yourself in special fall activities and explore the farm store, where freshly baked apple pies and cider doughnuts from Scotty’s Country Kitchen await. Sip on cold, fresh-pressed apple cider, and if you’re an adult, sample hand-crafted hard ciders at the nearby Orchard Hill Cidery tasting room. Keep an eye out for Speakeasy events or book a spot at their sought-after farm cooking and dining demonstrations. www.soonsorchards.com .

3. Apple Dave’s Orchard

Address: 82 Four Corners Road, Warwick

Apple Dave’s Orchard boasts 11 varieties of the freshest, juiciest fruit and a whole array of family-friendly activities. Taste the latest creations from the new distillery, indulge in apple and pumpkin picking, take a leisurely wagon ride, explore the farm store, or simply unwind by the orchard’s pond or amidst the rose garden. www.appledavesorchards.com

4. Lawrence Farms Orchards

Address: 306 Frozen Ridge Road, Newburgh

At Lawrence Farms, you can pick a variety of produce daily from June through October. September is the prime apple-picking season, according to their crop schedule. Paid admission grants you access to a miniature New England-style village featuring farmyard animals and Apple Train rides during the fall harvest season. While you’re there, savor fresh apple cider donuts, roasted nuts, paninis, and more from the farm’s concession stand. The picnic tables offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. lawrencefarmsorchards.org

5. Fishkill Farms

Address: 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction

If you’re looking for a spot to pick apples in the Hudson Valley that’s as charming as it gets, you’ve got to check out Fishkill Farms. Their apple-picking season usually kicks off in early September and goes strong until October – The perfect time to snag some delicious apples.

But hold onto your apple-picking basket, because Fishkill Farms has a whole lot more in store for you and your crew:

• Farm Market: Imagine strolling through their farm market, where you can load up on fresh produce, mouthwatering baked goods, and goodies like apple cider and jams that you can take home.
• Cider Bar & Grill: If you’re 21 or older, make sure to swing by their cider house. Here, you can sample some seriously tasty hard ciders. It’s the perfect place to unwind and sip on the flavors of the season.
• Nature Trails: If you’re up for a relaxed walk, Fishkill Farms has these lovely trails that wind through their beautiful surroundings. It’s like a nature escape right in the Hudson Valley.
• Harvest Festival: If your visit lines up with their Harvest Festival, you’re in for a treat. This family-friendly event usually includes live music, hayrides, pumpkin picking, and yummy food – something for everyone!

One more thing: Fishkill Farms cares about the environment and takes eco-friendly farming seriously. So, you can enjoy the beauty of nature and feel good about it too.

6. Masker Orchard

Address: 45 Ball Road, Warwick

Masker Orchard offers a unique twist on the traditional apple-picking experience. Visitors can drive right through the orchard and park by the apple-laden trees. Be sure to pack a picnic because you’ll want to spend the entire day in this expansive 200-acre orchard. The Country Store and Orchard are open daily from September 1 through November, with weekends featuring kid-friendly activities like encounters with baby animals, pony rides, and wagon rides.

Orange County’s Warm Welcome

If you’re an apple enthusiast, Orange County, NY, is the place to be during the fall season. Make sure to explore more orchards and fall farm fun on the Orange County Tourism website’s Agritourism pages and online calendar of events. For groups, it’s advisable to call ahead to make special arrangements for your apple-picking outings.

And remember, no trip to Orange County, NY, would be complete without an overnight stay at a cozy B&B or select hotel. Visit the Orange County website for a full list of lodging, activities, and attractions.

Now, grab your friends and family, and embark on a delightful apple-picking adventure in the heart of Hudson Valley. Don’t miss out on creating cherished memories and savoring the fruits of the season!

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