Best Apple Picking Spots in New York This Fall

From historic orchards in the Hudson Valley to sprawling farms upstate and cozy patches on Long Island, New York has some of the best apple orchards in the country.

Here’s a roundup of the best apple picking spots in New York that guarantee a perfect fall day out.

Hudson Valley Apple Orchards

Fishkill Farms (Hopewell Junction)

Over 100 years old, Fishkill Farms is the definition of tradition meeting sustainability.

They grow a wide variety of apples using eco-friendly practices, so you know your basket is filled with the freshest produce.

Families love the harvest festivals here, complete with hayrides and fresh-pressed cider.

Pro tip: Fishkill now requires advance reservations on peak weekends, so book online before you go to avoid disappointment.

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm (Yorktown Heights)

This farm is a triple treat — apples in the fall, pumpkins in October, and Christmas trees in December.

The on-site market sells homemade pies, apple cider, and jams that taste just like grandma’s kitchen.

It’s one of the most convenient orchards to reach from New York City.

Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard (North Salem)

Close to NYC, this spot is a weekend favorite.

Expect live music, hayrides, and the irresistible smell of apple cider donuts filling the air.

Harvest Moon is perfect for those who want a classic fall vibe without heading too far from the city.

Lawrence Farms Orchards (Newburgh)

Kids love the mini village play area, petting zoo, and wide variety of fruits available for picking.

If you want an orchard with lots to do beyond apples, this one’s a top pick.

Nearby attractions like Storm King Art Center and Newburgh waterfront make this orchard easy to pair with a full day trip.

Barton Orchards (Poughquag)

Think of Barton Orchards as a fall festival rolled into a farm.

You’ll find apple picking, pumpkin patches, a corn maze, food trucks, and even a craft beer garden.

It’s big, lively, and ideal for groups who want more than just fruit picking.

Warwick Valley Favorites

Masker Orchards (Warwick)

Masker is unique — you can actually drive your car right into the orchard.

This makes it easy to load up on apples without lugging heavy bags around.

Families also enjoy their weekend festivals with music, food, and fun fall activities.

Don’t miss their fresh apple pies, a local favorite.

Pennings Orchard (Warwick)

Apple picking meets adult fun here.

Along with fresh fruit, Pennings offers a cidery and beer garden.

Parents can sip while the kids enjoy pumpkin patches, hayrides, and farm animals.

Fall weekends also bring live music and farm festivals that make the atmosphere even more vibrant.

Apple Ridge Orchards (Warwick)

Smaller and cozier, Apple Ridge has a laid-back charm.

Scenic views of the Hudson Valley set the backdrop while you enjoy fresh cider and warm donuts.

Upstate & Central New York Orchards

Jenkins–Lueken Orchards (New Paltz)

If you want breathtaking views while you pick, Jenkins–Lueken is the place.

Overlooking the Shawangunk Mountains, the orchard offers picture-perfect scenery along with rows of apples.

Nearby, hikers can explore Mohonk Preserve or Minnewaska State Park for a perfect fall combo.

Minard’s Family Farm (Clintondale)

This family-run farm has a warm, welcoming vibe.

Hayrides, pumpkin picking, and kid-friendly play areas make it perfect for families with little ones.

Soons Orchards (New Hampton)

Soons has been around for generations, and locals swear by their fresh cider and homemade pies.

It’s a classic orchard that feels like stepping back in time.

Indian Ladder Farms (Altamont)

A historic farm that’s been around for over a century, Indian Ladder combines apple picking with a craft brewery and cidery.

It’s a great spot for couples or groups who want farm-fresh apples and local drinks.

Bowman Orchards (Rexford)

This large orchard has a huge variety of apples to pick from, along with tractor rides and family activities.

It’s one of the biggest and most organized orchards in upstate NY.

Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards (Lafayette)

This orchard is legendary.

Known for its hard cider, live music, and sprawling apple fields, Beak & Skiff is more like a fall destination than a simple farm.

Their apple cider donuts and seasonal hard cider tastings are a must-try.

Critz Farms (Cazenovia)

Here, apple picking is part of a bigger fall festival.

Corn mazes, pumpkins, and an on-site brewery make Critz a full-day adventure.

Indian Creek Farm (Ithaca)

Close to Cornell University, this orchard has a quirky, relaxed atmosphere.

It’s especially known for unique apple varieties you won’t find in grocery stores.

Long Island Apple Orchards

Harbes Orchard (Riverhead)

Located on the North Fork, Harbes is a family favorite with corn mazes, farm animals, and wagon rides.

It’s a perfect mix of farm fun and fresh apples.

Wickham’s Fruit Farm (Cutchogue)

Wickham’s is one of the oldest farms in America.

Sitting right on the Long Island Sound, the views are stunning while you pick apples.

They also bake incredible pies.

The Milk Pail U-Pick (Water Mill)

In the Hamptons, The Milk Pail is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the apples.

Alongside apples, you can pick pumpkins, making it a great fall combo trip.

Extra Seasonal Fun at Apple Orchards

Apple picking in New York goes beyond the orchard rows.

Expect hayrides, corn mazes, live music, food trucks, cideries, and of course — hot cider donuts that are worth the trip alone.

Many orchards also host fall festivals, making it easy to turn a quick visit into a full-day adventure.

Pro Tips for Apple Picking in New York

Best Time: Mid-September to mid-October is peak season, but check orchard websites for exact ripening schedules.

Transport: Hudson Valley orchards are easy to reach by Metro-North, while Long Island farms are accessible via LIRR.

Pair It Up: Combine apple picking with nearby wineries, pumpkin patches, or scenic fall drives for the ultimate fall day.

Regional Bests: For a quick guide — Fishkill Farms is the best near NYC, Beak & Skiff is the must-visit in Upstate, and Harbes is the top pick on Long Island.

Conclusion

Apple picking in New York is more than just a seasonal activity — it’s a tradition that brings together families, friends, and communities.

Whether you’re sipping cider in the Hudson Valley, enjoying views of the Shawangunk Mountains, or pairing your apple haul with wine tastings on Long Island, the experience is always magical.