14 Awesome Places To Go Apple Picking in Massachusetts
Are you ready to experience the magic of New England in the fall? Then grab your favorite flannel shirt and head to some of the top spots for apple picking in Massachusetts!
There’s nothing like wandering through a beautiful orchard on a crisp autumn day, picking fresh apples straight off the trees, and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Lucky for you, Massachusetts is home to some of the finest apple orchards in the country. With over 75 varieties grown in the state, it’s no wonder Massachusetts is a prime destination for apple picking.
Whether you’re looking to pick apples for your apple pie recipe or want to enjoy a stroll amongst the foliage in a quaint Massachusetts small town, you won’t be disappointed by what MA has to offer. It’ll be a beautiful and tasty experience! In fact, apple picking is one of the most popular fall activities in Massachusetts, so it should be high on your list.
Many orchards also offer hayrides, corn mazes, live music, and other activities that will keep you entertained all day long.
So take your baskets and get ready to hit the orchard – here are our top 14 picks for the best spots to go apple picking in Massachusetts!
14. Boston Hill Farm
If you want to spend the day picking fresh, juicy apples, Boston Hill Farm is a great place to go. The farm is in North Andover, Massachusetts, about 30 miles north of Boston. It is a lovely New England-style place where people can enjoy the fall season.
One of the things that makes Boston Hill Farm such a great place to go apple picking is the sheer variety of available apples. With over ten different types on offer, there’s something for everyone.
You can find sweet, sour, crisp, or juicy apples on this farm. However, Honeycrisp, Gala, McIntosh, Cortland, and Empire are some of the most common kinds.
The farm uses organic and sustainable growing methods, so the apples are healthy, tasty, and free of chemicals that are bad for you!
When you visit, you can pick more than just apples. Depending on the season, you can pick pumpkins, strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and more!
At Boston Hill Farm, there are many things to do besides picking apples. Take a leisurely walk through the orchard and look at the changing leaves, visit the petting zoo and say hi to the friendly animals, or look through the farm store for fresh vegetables, homemade baked goods, and souvenirs.
There is also a corn maze for those wanting to try something more challenging. The maze is on a five-acre field and has a new layout every year, making it a fun and exciting journey for families and friends to go through together.
And if you go to Boston Hill Farm on the weekend, stop by the farm’s outdoor BBQ. Here, you can relax on the lawn and listen to live music while eating some of the farm’s famous apple cider donuts, newly made popcorn, and other snacks.
13. C A Dowse & Son
C.A. Dowse & Son is a secret gem in the Massachusetts town of Sherborn. This family-owned farm has been giving the community fresh food for over 200 years and is a must-see for anyone who wants to see New England’s best in the fall.
Even though C.A. Dowse & Son sells a wide range of fruits and veggies all year, their apple orchard really shines in the fall.
More than 20 kinds of apples are available, so you are bound to get your favorite. This farm has something for everyone, whether you like sweet Honeycrisps or sour Granny Smiths.
However, C A Dowse & Son is more than just a place to pick apples. Adults can get lost in the corn maze, but kids will love exploring the pumpkin patch.
On the weekends, the farm offers hayrides that take people through the beautiful scenery surrounding the property.
Meanwhile, one thing that makes C.A. Dowse & Son different from other apple farms is that it is committed to farming in a good way for the environment. The farm uses “integrated pest management” techniques for the food to grow using organic methods.
Aside from that, you will feel good about the place because it is clean and the staff is friendly. The experience will be even better because the prices aren’t too high.
C.A. Dowse & Son is an easy day trip for families, couples, and friends. It is only a short drive from Boston. So why not make a day of it and see all C A Dowse & Son offers? You won’t be disappointed!
Stop by Boston on your way home and indulge in some super fun fall activities!
12. C N Smith Farm
C.N. Smith Farm is in the middle of East Bridgewater, Massachusetts. It is a family-run farm that has been helping the community for more than 90 years.
With over 70 acres of orchards to wander through, you will find the right apple among its many classic and unique varieties. Whether you like McIntosh’s tartness or a Honeycrisp’s sweetness, you’ll find something here to please your taste buds.
But that’s not all! C N Smith Farm also has a beautiful pumpkin patch where you can choose the perfect pumpkin to carve or decorate. You can also wander through the field to see the beautiful fall scenery.
After all that activity, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Luckily, C N Smith Farm has got you covered with its fantastic farm stand. You can enjoy freshly baked pies, cider donuts, and other tasty treats made with apples and pumpkins grown on the farm.
You can also purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, honey, and other goods made in the area to take home and enjoy for the rest of the season!
The C.N. Smith Farm is a real treasure of New England. It’s simple to see why people keep returning year after year: it has a lovely setting, friendly staff, and tasty treats. So, to have a lot of fun, go to C.N. Smith Farm and see how magical it is.
11. Brooksby Farm
Nestled in the heart of Peabody, Massachusetts, Brooksby Farm is a local treasure that offers visitors a chance to experience the joys of picking their apples. The farm boasts over 270 acres of land and has been a community staple for over 100 years.
The history of Brooksby Farm is as rich as its apple orchards. The Endicott family first owned the farm, which is a family essential to the early settlement of Massachusetts. They later sold it to the Farnsworth family, who ran it as a working farm until the City of Peabody bought it in the 1970s.
Apple picking is a classic fall activity that families can still do at Brooksby Farm. More than a dozen kinds of apples grow here, so people can pick their favorite or try something new.
Besides that, the farm offers hayrides, a pumpkin patch, and a giant corn maze during the fall.
On a hayride, visitors can take their time and enjoy the beautiful views and fresh air as they go around the farm. Children love getting lost in the corn maze with twists and turn that even the most experienced maze-goers find hard to figure out.
In addition to the usual fall events, Brooksby Farm has a farm store where you can buy fresh baked goods, locally grown produce, and homemade cider donuts. People can take some of the tasty treats they ate at the farm.
Brooksby Farm is a must-see for anyone who wants to see how beautiful and traditional New England is in the fall. This farm has something for everyone, whether you want to pick apples, walk, or enjoy the crisp fall air. It’s one of the top spots for apple picking in Massachusetts due to its history!
10. Hill Orchard
Hill Orchard is another ideal place to go apple picking. This 200-acre orchard in Westford, Massachusetts, is a great place to enjoy the beauty and wealth of nature. It is also a spot to spend a weekend with family or friends.
One of the best things about Hill Orchard is the fantastic views you’ll see as you walk through. The rolling hills and gorgeous vistas make apple picking a great place to take pictures and make memories with loved ones.
Apart from the views, the apple-picking experience set this place apart from other farms. Visitors can pick their apples right off the tree or buy apples already picked at the farm stand. One of the unique things about Hill Orchard is that you can pick rare heirloom apples.
Apple picking is not the only activity offered at Hill Orchard, though. Visitors can also enjoy hayrides and farm animals and explore the corn maze, which is perfect for all ages.
Another great thing about Hill Orchard is its bakery, where you can buy freshly baked donuts, pies, and turnovers made with apple cider. Fresh ingredients from the orchard and the surrounding area make these treats, giving tourists an excellent taste experience.
It’s also great for families and friends to hang out, have fun, and make memories. There are picnic tables in the orchard where you can sit, relax, and enjoy freshly picked apples while taking in the beautiful views of the countryside.
And let’s not forget the farm’s country shop. You can buy jams, jellies, honey, maple syrup, and fresh vegetables made in the area to take home.
So if you are looking for a fun-filled day trip or a weekend getaway Hill Orchard is an excellent opportunity to immerse in nature, breathe the fresh air, and unwind! This is one of our favorite spots for apple picking in Massachusetts to spend a full weekend rather than just a day.
9. Carver Hill Orchard
Carver Hill Orchard is a secret gem in the middle of Stow, Massachusetts, where people of all ages can have a great time picking apples.
With more than 20 different kinds of apples, this farm has a wide range of tastes and textures sure to please even the pickiest taste buds.
But that’s not all. Carver Hill Orchard also has a lot of other things to do to keep people busy while they’re there. Children will have a great time exploring the pumpkin patch and corn maze, while adults can rest with a glass of locally made hard cider. Yup, you heard right: this is one of the only Massachusetts apple picking spots that offers alcohol!
On the other hand, Carver Hill Orchard’s bakery has delicious treats like apple pies, cakes, and donuts made from scratch with fresh ingredients from the orchard.
You can also go to classes where you press apples and learn how to make cider.
Among the best things about the garden is the beautiful view from the top of the hill, which looks out over the fields and mountains nearby. During the fall, this fantastic view is incredibly stunning when the leaves change colors to red, orange, and yellow.
Carver Hill Orchard isn’t just a place to pick apples; it has everything you need for fall. There’s something for everybody to enjoy, from live music to tours that teach you something.
So, if you want to enjoy Massachusetts apple picking in a fun way and interactive way, Carver Hill Orchard is the right place to go. This farm has everything you need to make memories, whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out or a couple looking for a quiet place to get away.
8. Honey Pot Hill Orchard
Another destination nestled in the heart of Stow Massachusetts is Honey Pot Hill Orchard. It is a secret gem that draws people from all over.
Honey Pot Hill Orchard is a family-run farm selling fresh, juicy apples to customers for over 100 years. With over 200 acres of trees, there are a lot of different kinds of apples to choose from, making it an excellent place for apple lovers and families alike.
As you walk through the rows of trees, you’ll see the bright colors of the ripe fruit hanging from the branches. With apples like the standard Honey Crisp and the more unusual Pink Lady and Zestar, there is something for everyone.
You can pick your favorites right off the tree or buy a pre-picked bag at the farm store, where you’ll also find homemade treats like cider donuts, pies, and candy.
But Honey Pot Hill Orchard has much more than just apples to pick. Take a hayride around the farm or navigate the corn maze’s intricate pathways while enjoying the nearby countryside’s beautiful views.
Do you have kids with you? Take them to the playground and petting zoo. They can get up close with friendly goats, pigs, and chickens.
But if you want to make a day of it, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful outdoor sitting areas with stunning orchard views. And if you’re there in the fall, don’t miss the chance to pick your pumpkins and go on the scary Haunted Hayride.
Honey Pot Hill Orchard has something for everyone, making it the ideal place to escape the stress and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s a great Massachusetts apple picking spot for families, too!
7. Red Apple Farm
If you’re looking for a fantastic way to spend a fabulous fall day, Red Apple Farm is the place to go. This family-owned farm is right in the middle of the rolling hills of Phillipston, Massachusetts, and is a terrific place to go apple picking.
When you get to Red Apple Farm, you’ll see acres and acres of apple trees full of juicy, ripe apples ready to be picked. No matter how many times you’ve picked apples or if it’s your first time, there’s nothing like picking a fresh, juicy apple right off the tree and taking that first crisp bite.
During the season, you can pick over 20 different types of apples. You can choose from Honeycrisp, Gala, and Cortland apples, among others. No matter which kind you prefer, you can be sure that the apples at Red Apple Farm are always fresh, tasty, and flavorful.
But you can do more than just pick apples at Red Apple Farm. If you want to do something more exciting, try the bungee course at the farm. As you zip from one tree to another, you can fly through the air and see the beautiful scenery around you.
Of course, there are plenty of other things to do for people who would rather stay on the ground. Walk through the farm’s pumpkin patches and pick the perfect pumpkin to turn into a jack-o-lantern. You can also stop by the farm store and stock up on tasty jams, jellies, and other treats.
No matter what you do at Red Apple Farm, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and energized with a bag full of the freshest, tastiest apples you’ve ever eaten. So why not plan an excursion to this beautiful farm and find out what all the fuss is about?
6. Brookfield Orchards
Brookfield Orchards is a family-owned and -operated orchard in the beautiful town of Brookfield, Massachusetts. It offers a fun-filled day of apple picking that will make memories.
What makes Brookfield Orchard different from other places to pick apples? First of all, the farm has many different kinds of apple trees, which means it has many different types of apples. There is an apple for everyone, from the well-known Macintosh and Honeycrisp to the Northern Spy and Baldwin.
But this farm isn’t just great because it has a lot of different kinds of apples. The owners are proud that they don’t use too many pesticides and use sustainable farming methods to grow their food. It ensures the apples are tasty and good for you and the environment.
Apple picking is, of course, the main thing to do there. Walk through rows of apple trees with a basket, taking in the crisp fall air and the beautiful countryside views. It’s a fun, healthy thing to do that’s great for families, couples, or anybody who enjoys being outside.
Brookfield Orchard has the usual “you-pick” apples, but they also have already picked apples for those who want to skip the work and get right to enjoying their harvest.
Furthermore, there are many other things to do at Brookfield Orchard besides picking apples. Take a tractor ride through the orchard to see the fall colors and learn about its past. Meanwhile, the zoo and weekend hayrides are great for kids. You can also try to find your way through the corn maze!
Finally, before leaving, stop by the farm stand for fresh cider donuts, apple pies, and other homemade treats!
5. Cider Hill Farm
One of the best spots to pick apples is Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury, Massachusetts. The farm is a quiet and peaceful place where families can spend time together outside and enjoy the gorgeous views of the New England countryside.
Honeycrisp, in particular, is a popular visitor choice. Those who like a sweeter taste will love the farm’s Gala apples, which have a light but strong flavor. Meanwhile, the firm and sour Granny Smith is an excellent pick for a tart apple that works well in baking. And the McIntosh apple is a classic New England apple with a mix of sweet and sour flavors and soft flesh.
Once you’ve picked all the apples you want, there are many more other things to do at this farm!
Walk around the farm and enjoy the beautiful views, or hop on a hayride to see the property in style. The friendly farm animals are also a lot of fun for kids to see, and the corn maze is fun for people of all ages.
Of course, you can’t go to Cider Hill Farm without trying their famous cider donuts. These delicious treats are made fresh daily with farm apple cider. People come from around the world to try their exceptional taste and texture.
Cider Hill Farm is a terrific destination for apple-picking enthusiasts. Its spectacular orchards, charming farm store, and fun activities make it the perfect place to create lasting memories!
4. Carlson Orchards, Inc
Nestled in the charming town of Harvard, Massachusetts, Carlson Orchards, Inc. is a hidden gem that offers visitors an authentic apple-picking experience.
This family-owned farm has grown high-quality apples on over 120 acres of land for over 80 years. It sells fresh fruit and vegetables to both locals and tourists.
When you reach Carlson Orchards, you’ll see trees full of ripe apples and green leaves. The people who work at the farm make sure that the experience is as fun as it is fruitful by giving people bags for their apples, maps of the field, and tips on choosing the best fruit.
With so many kinds to choose from, like Honeycrisp, Macintosh, Gala, Cortland, and more, picking apples at Carlson Orchards is a unique way to try a wide range of flavors and tastes. This farm has apples for everyone, whether you like them sweet, sour, or somewhere in between.
You can also take a slow wagon ride through the orchard or walk through the beautiful scenery. If you are with kids, they will love petting the farm animals and playing on the field.
After being out in the fresh air for a while, you can go to the farm stand and buy pumpkins, corn, honey, cider, and baked goods, among other things. Carlson’s has some of the best hard cider in Massachusetts!
If do you want to know more about the orchard’s past and how apples are grown, take a guided walk led by staff members who know much about everything. They will explain everything in detail, which is a really cool tour.
3. Westward Orchards
Westward Orchards has been a favorite in Harvard, Massachusetts, for over 90 years. It is just a short drive from Boston and focuses on sustainability.
Westward Orchards focuses on growing organically. In fact, the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) has approved the orchard, meaning you can eat delicious apples with no pesticides right off the tree.
Plus, this orchard has a wide range of apple types, so everyone can find something they like. There are more than 14 different kinds; you can mix and match them to make the right flavor combination for all your baking needs. You can get sweet Honeycrisp, tart Granny Smith apples, and Macintosh, Cortland, and Empire.
Additionally, you can’t miss the chance to pick your Asian pears here. Visitors love these juicy, pear-shaped fruits, which are a great addition to salads or sweets.
But Westward Orchards is worth a trip for more than just that. The farm also has hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches, which are great for families with young children.
There is even a farm store on the property where you can buy freshly baked pies, cider donuts, and other treats made with ingredients from the area.
2. Bartlett’s Orchard
Bartlett’s Orchards, located in the beautiful town of Richmond, Massachusetts, is a must-see for anyone who wants to pick their apples. It is a real gem in New England, featuring stunning views, rolling hills, and more than 25 kinds of apples you can pick yourself.
From the crisp munch of a freshly picked McIntosh apple to the sweet, juicy texture of a Honeycrisp, there is an apple for every taste. And with over 100 acres of orchards to visit, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect apple.
But picking apples isn’t the only thing Bartlett’s Orchards has to offer. Stop by the farm store after you’ve gathered all the apples you want. You’ll find freshly baked pies, cider donuts, and other tasty treats made from the apples you just harvested.
And if you want a little excitement, you can walk through the corn maze or take a hayride around the field. There are also many picnic tables where you can eat freshly picked apples while looking at the beautiful mountains around you.
Not just that, Bartlett’s Orchards can also act as your event venue, accommodating up to 250 people. Its beautiful environment is ideal for weddings or other special events in the fall.
Whether you’re a seasoned apple picker or a first-timer, Bartlett’s Orchards is the perfect destination for a day of fun, food, and fresh air. So meet your family and friends, grab a basket, and head to Richmond for an unforgettable apple-picking experience.
1. Berlin Orchards
Capping off this list is Berlin Orchards.
Berlin Orchards in Berlin, Massachusetts, is a beautiful apple orchard that will please nature fans and apple lovers. It is a family-run business that has been selling the best fruits and vegetables to the community for over 100 years.
Walking onto the green grounds of Berlin Orchards, you’ll see a picture-perfect scene with rolling hills, green fields, and acres and acres of apple trees.
There are more than 80 different kinds of apples to choose from! Some of the most popular ones are Honeycrisp, Gala, and Macintosh. Whether you want a crisp, sour Granny Smith or a sweet, juicy Fuji, there are plenty of both here.
But you can do more than just pick apples at Berlin Orchards. The orchard has many apples and other things to do with your friends and family.
Take a slow hayride around the property to enjoy the beautiful countryside views. Or walk along the beautiful trails that wind through the woods and fields, giving you plenty of chances to hike and watch birds.
You’ll build an appetite with everything you can do in the area. Luckily, you can go to the cozy farm store to eat freshly baked pies, homemade jams and jellies, and other tasty treats made with farm ingredients.
You can also use one of the orchard’s presses to make your cider and experience something new. It’s a fun and interactive way to experience the process of apple harvesting from start to finish.
Note that the orchard grows its fruits using mostly organic and low-spray methods. It means that everything you sample is not only tasty but also grown in a way that is ethical and responsible.
So why not make it your destination and create memories that will last a lifetime?
As you can see, Massachusetts is a haven for apple enthusiasts looking to pick their juicy fruits straight from the orchard. The state offers various options, from beautiful farms with family-friendly activities to small-scale operations providing a more intimate experience.
Whether you’re looking for classic varieties like Red Delicious and Granny Smith or newer breeds like Honeycrisp and Gala, there’s something for everyone in Massachusetts!
So why wait? Grab your baskets and head to one of these 14 awesome places to go apple picking in Massachusetts. Don’t miss out on this fun fall activity!
FAQ’s About Apple Picking In Massachusetts:
What is the best time of year to go apple picking in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the best time of year to go apple picking is typically in the late summer or early fall, specifically from late August through October. Apple orchards in Massachusetts offer a variety of apple types, and the picking season can vary depending on the specific apple variety you prefer. However, many orchards have a wide selection of apples available during September and October.
It’s worth noting that apple picking season can vary slightly from year to year due to weather conditions and other factors. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check with local orchards or visit their websites for updated information on the availability and timing of apple picking. Sometimes the Massachusetts apple picking season is only a few weeks long!
Additionally, different apple varieties have varying peak seasons, so if you have a particular type of apple in mind, it’s best to research when it is typically ripe for picking.
What Should I Wear To Go Apple Picking?
Going to any Massachusetts apple orchards is a thing and there’s a specific style that most New Englanders embrace, which includes:
1. Classic fall colors: Embrace the colors of autumn by wearing pieces in classic fall shades like deep burgundy, mustard yellow, burnt orange, or olive green. These colors are not only trendy but also blend well with the natural surroundings.
2. Cozy layers: Layering is not only practical but also adds depth to your outfit. Start with a stylish base layer such as a plaid shirt, a chunky knit sweater, or a flannel button-down. You can add a lightweight jacket or a cozy cardigan on top for extra warmth and style.
3. Denim or corduroy bottoms: Opt for a pair of jeans in a flattering fit or try a stylish pair of corduroy pants. These materials are versatile, comfortable, and go well with the casual and rustic vibes of apple picking.
4. Boots or booties: Choose footwear that is both fashionable and suitable for walking around the orchard. Ankle boots or tall boots in leather or suede are excellent choices. They not only keep your feet protected but also add a touch of sophistication to your outfit. Make sure you don’t choose heels since apple picking in MA does include a lot of walking.
5. Accessories: Complete your look with some trendy accessories. Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat or a beanie, depending on the weather. Add a stylish scarf or wrap around your neck for added warmth and style. Don’t forget to bring a cute tote bag for carrying your freshly picked apples.
6. Sunglasses: If the sun is shining, a pair of fashionable sunglasses can elevate your look while also protecting your eyes.
You can never go wrong with jeans or corduroy pants, cute boots, and a sweater or a flannel.
Looking for other fall activities in Massachusetts? Head to Salem MA, the home of the witches, for a spooky weekend, or check out Rockport MA for a weekend by the ocean!
