Written by Patricia Poekel
The time for apple picking is now.
September marks the peak harvest season for apples. To help you plan your upcoming apple picking adventure, we've rounded up five of the best orchards and farms to visit. These spots are all close enough for an easy day trip, so you'll have plenty of time once you get home to bake a pie.
1. Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard - North Salem, NY
Tucked away in North Salem, New York -- just 60 miles from New York City -- is Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard. Every weekend this fall, this family owned and operated orchard will host its annual fall festival, which will feature things like live music, hayrides, apple cannons, freshly made apple cider donuts and, of course, apple picking.
2. Fishkill Farms - Hopewell Junction, NY
This eco-minded farm and orchard focuses on producing fresh, sustainably grown produce. In addition to 40 acres of apples, Fishkill Farms also grows peaches, sweet corn, tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, herbs, flowers and more. Head north from New York City for about 70 miles to reach this vast family-owned farm.
3. Alstede Farms - Chester, NJ
Located in scenic Chester, New Jersey, Alstede Farms has been an apple picking mainstay for years. In addition to apples, visitors can pick from a wide array of offerings including blackberries, raspberries, peaches, sweet corn, peppers, eggplant, tomatoes and flowers. Once you've stocked up on fruit and veggies, visit the farm's corn maze or take a tour of the cider mill. Alstede Farms can be accessed by car -- about an hour from NYC -- or by train via NJ Transit.
4. Battleview Orchards - Freehold, NJ
An hour-drive south of the city you will find Battleview Orchards -- a sprawling 130-acre farm and orchard founded in 1908. Here, visitors can take advantage of over 10 different apple varieties including Granny Smith, McIntosh, Fuji and Jonamac. For additional treats, stop in the farm's country store for freshly made breads, muffins, scones, pies, apple cider and cider donuts. The store also offers a variety of fruit and gift baskets as well as a great selection of gourmet jams, jellies and spreads.
5. Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery - Warwick, NY
A more adult-friendly destination, Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery grows over 60 different apple varieties at their scenic orchard (they also make hard cider, wine and gin). Get there in time for lunch and you can try Pané Café, the winery's on-site eatery, which serves salads, artisan pizzas, sandwiches made with freshly baked bread and more. After you're through picking, end your day in the tasting room where visitors can sample Warwick's wines, ciders, brandies and liqueurs. Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery is located 60 miles northwest of New York City.