Fall has just arrived, and before you know it, our social media feeds will be flooded with scenic imagery of fall foliage, stylish chunky sweaters and boots and pumpkin spiced lattes.
Nevertheless, one cannot finish the Fall season without a weekend of pumpkin and apple picking, and with so many farms and orchards around New York State, there’s no reason to pass up on this autumn tradition….
Below are some of the best places for apple and pumpkin picking (along with hot ciders, food and live entertainment).
Apple Barn at Beak & Skiff
Pick your own apples or purchase them in the Apple Barn at Beak & Skiff, and while you’re there, taste-test the orchard’s 1911 ciders, spirits, and wines.
Indian Ladder Farms in Altamont
Find apples in the Capital-Saratoga Region at Indian Ladder Farms in Altamont, where you can also get homemade pies, cider, produce, and more. This farm also uses a combination of long-standing agricultural practices as well as advanced ecological orchard management methods to minimize spraying and other environmentally disruptive practices.
Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard in Cooperstown
Witness cider-making at the historic Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard just three miles from Main Street Cooperstown. Discover the Mill Store Marketplace filled with Pride of New York products like extra-sharp cheddar cheese and creamy Mill-made fudge. Savor the flavors of more than 40 specialty food, wine and hard cider tastings. Relax on the Millpond boardwalk with lunch or a sweet treat from the Snack Barn & Bakery and a glass of apple wine. Exploring young children can enjoy discovering Tractorland and the friendly ducks and geese. Whether you spend a few hours or a day the Fly Creek Cider Mill provides history, tastes and traditions for generations of visitors. Open all year!
Old McDonald’s Farm in Sackets Harbor
Combining fantasy with reality, Old McDonald’s Farm has been hosting families and school children since 1986! Visit more than 1,000 animals from cows and camels to reindeer! Themed hayrides, pony rides, mini golf, gift shop, and cafe including ice cream all await. Tour the modern dairy and experience what goes on to produce milk. Spend the day on the farm in Sackets Harbor. If you like animals, you will love Old McDonald’s Farm! Open May until Halloween.
Pumpkinville in Great Valley
Pick out a pumpkin, and interact with farm animals, at Pumpkinville in Great Valley from September 14–October 31. Fresh pressed cider and bushels of apples and squash are also available.
Great Pumpkin Farm in Clarence
Visit the Great Pumpkin Farm in Clarence from September 14–October 31 to get pumpkins, gourds, and mums to pump up your fall spirit. The Great Pumpkin Farm also hosts a pie-eating contest, pumpkin slingshots, a pumpkin drop, and a petting zoo. In addition, there are many pumpkin-related events happening throughout fall across New York State.
Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Van Cortlandt Manor
Watch pumpkins light up the night at the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Van Cortlandt Manor, from September 20–November 30.
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