Looking for the best apple-picking spots in Virginia? It’s a haven for apple lovers, offering a large array of orchards where you can pick your apples, indulge in apple cider donuts, and enjoy a day out with family and children. With apple season typically running from late August to October, there’s no better time to explore the best apple-picking spots in the state. Here’s a guide to some of the top orchards in Virginia, complete with everything you need to know.
When is Apple Picking Season in Virginia?
The best thing about apple picking in Virginia is that unlike other places, our apple picking season isn’t too short. We have apples available from August to October. The best time to go apple picking in Virginia is between late August and October.
Early varieties like Gala and Honeycrisp are ready for harvest in late August, while mid-season apples such as Jonagold and Empire peak in September. If you’re after late-season varieties like Pink Lady or Fuji, plan your visit for October. It’s always wise to check with local orchards beforehand, as the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions and the specific location.
Best Places to Go Apple Picking in Virginia
Great Country Farms: The #1 Place for Apple Picking in VA
Located in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Country Farms is a family-friendly destination that offers much more than just apple picking. The farm grows a variety of apples, including Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith, perfect for eating fresh or baking into pies. Beyond apple picking, the farm offers wagon rides, a corn maze, and even a cider press, making it a great spot for a full day of fun.
Address: 18780 Foggy Bottom Rd, Bluemont, VA 20135
Marker-Miller Orchards
Marker-Miller Orchards is a picturesque farm that offers over 20 varieties of apples throughout the season. Some of their popular varieties include Honey Crisp, Ginger Gold and Gala. The farm also features a bakery with fresh apple cider donuts and pies, a picnic area, and a playground for the kids.
Depending on the season, you can also pick your own blackberries, peaches, and flowers.
Address: 3035 Cedar Creek Grade, Winchester, VA 22602
Orr’s Farm Market
While Orr’s Farm Market is technically in West Virginia, it’s close enough to the Virginia border to be a favorite among Virginians. This farm offers a wide range of apples like McIntosh, Golden Delicious, and Cameo. In addition to apple picking, you can enjoy hayrides, a corn maze, and a farm market filled with homemade jams, jellies, and other treats.
Address: 682 Orr Dr, Martinsburg, WV 25403
Butler’s Orchard
Butler’s Orchard is a family-owned farm that has been in operation since 1950. It offers a variety of apples, including Empire, Jonathan, and Cortland. The farm is also known for its seasonal festivals, including the Apple Harvest Festival, which features live music, hayrides, and a pumpkin patch.
Address: 22222 Davis Mill Rd, Germantown, MD 20876
Stribling Orchard
Stribling Orchard is one of the oldest family-run orchards in Virginia, dating back to 1812. They offer a range of apple varieties such as Red Delicious, Rome, and Stayman. The orchard also has a bakery that sells fresh apple pies and other baked goods. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains make this a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip.
Address: 11587 Poverty Hollow Ln, Markham, VA 22643
Homestead Farm
Homestead Farm is a charming orchard that offers a variety of apples, including Jonagold, Golden Delicious, and Winesap. The farm also features a market where you can purchase fresh produce, homemade jams, and of course, apple cider donuts. Kids will love the petting zoo and pumpkin patch, making it a great family outing.
Address: 15604 Sugarland Rd, Poolesville, MD 20837
Hollin Farms
Hollin Farms is a fourth-generation family farm that offers a variety of apples, including Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith. The farm is also known for its sustainable farming practices and offers other pick-your-own produce like pumpkins, potatoes, and greens. The farm’s hilltop location offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Address: 1524 Snowden Rd, Delaplane, VA 20144
Carter Mountain Orchard
Carter Mountain Orchard is a bit of a distance from Northern Virginia. A trip to Carter Mountain Orchard is the perfect way to enjoy a day of apple picking with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The orchard has a variety of apples, warm apple cider and even ice cream.
Combine a visit to Carter Mountain Orchard with a weekend getaway to Staunton. Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s estate, is less than a 10 minute drive from the orchard and provides powerful insight to early American history.
Address: 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Cox Farms
Cox Farms is not just about apple picking; it’s a full-on fall festival experience. They offer a variety of apples, including Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith. Cox Farms is famous for its apple cider donuts, fresh apple cider, and other delicious produce. The farm is a paradise for kids, with attractions like giant slides, hayrides, a corn maze, and even a petting zoo.
Address: 15621 Braddock Rd, Centreville, VA 20120
Types of Apples You’ll Find in Virginia
Virginia is home to various apples, each offering a unique flavor. The most popular varieties include the sweet Gala, the Honeycrisp, and the infamous Granny Smith. Personally, I believe that Granny Smith apples make some of the best apple pie.
Other favorites are the aromatic Fuji, the rich and tart Jonagold, and the classic Red and Golden Delicious. Late-season apples like Pink Lady and Winesap are known for their firm texture and sweet-tart flavor, making them ideal for long-term storage and baking.
Conclusion of Apple Picking in Virginia
Apple picking in Virginia is more than just a fun fall activity; it’s a way to connect with nature, enjoy fresh local produce, and make lasting memories with your family. Whether you’re in it for the perfect apple or the whole farm experience, these orchards offer something for everyone. So grab your baskets and head to one of these fantastic apple-picking spots this season!
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