Apple Picking Season in Westchester: 17 Great Places to Pick Your Own

A Guide to the Top Apple Picking Spots in Westchester

The most fun farms for apple picking in Westchester and the surrounding areas include Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard, Stuart’s Fruit Farm, Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm, Lawrence Farms Orchards, and Hurd’s Family Farm.  

Can you believe it? Apple picking season is upon us. And while the start of the school year isn’t always easy, there’s something special about fun fall activities like apple picking that makes this transition a little easier. These farms in Westchester (and the surrounding areas) offer fun experiences for kids of all ages with delicious apple cider donuts, rides, animal experiences, and, of course, apples! Check out our list below of the best places to pick apples in the area!

Too Long, Didn’t Read

• Most Visited Farms: Harvest Moon Farm, Stuart’s Fruit Farm, Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm, Lawrence Farms Orchards, Hurd’s Family Farm
• Best for Snacks: Seven Ponds Orchard, Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm, Harvest Moon Farm, Lawrence Farms Orchards
• Farms with Fun Activities: Harbes Family Farm and Orchard, Hurd’s Family Farm, Kelder’s Farms, Prospect Hill Orchards
• Farms with Peaceful Views: Cedar Heights Orchard, Mead Orchards, Hayden’s Peach Orchard, Dr. Davies Farm
• For Kids: Milk Pail U Pick Farm, Hurd’s Family Farm, Kelder’s Farms, Apple Hill Farm

Here begins the full tour of the farms, filled with crunchy apples, cozy fall treats, and simple moments that kids enjoy during apple-picking season. Below, you’ll find all the details for each farm, including which apples to try, fun activities for kids, tasty treats to enjoy, and the best times to visit.

Top Places for Apple Picking in Westchester County

Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard

Pick-your-own apples at Harvest Moon & Orchard start in September and run until October. Enjoy beautiful views of the Hudson Valley and fall foliage, families will also love eating their signature warm apple cider donuts and enjoying a BBQ lunch with live music in the background. After apple picking, be sure to visit their on-site store for local produce, pies, breads, and fresh baked goods. Open every day from 9 am-5 pm (Orchard entrance closes at 4:15 pm). 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, 914-485-1210

Stuart’s Fruit Farm

A family-operated story since 1828, families will love spending a day at Stuart’s for apple picking, a hayride, and shopping at its farm stand to purchase apple cider donuts and homemade pies. Apple picking is available from September 6th through November, from 10 am-5 pm. 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY, 914-245-2784

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Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm

Wilkens opens for the season in August.  The pick-your-own apple season starts August 30th and runs until mid-October, where you and your family can pick a variety of apples such as Gala, McIntosh, Baldwin, Golden Delicious, Crispin, and Fuji. Apple cider donuts, pies, loaf breads, strudels, brownies, and more are available for purchase at the on-site bakery. Pick-your-own hours are 10:30 am-4:30 pm from Wednesdays to Mondays. 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights, NY, 914-245-5111

Top Places for Apple Picking in Dutchess County

Cedar Heights Orchard

If you’re exploring apple orchards in Westchester,  Cedar Heights Orchard is a peaceful spot to walk, breathe fresh air, and relax with family. This farm offers Cortland, Gala, Calville Blanc D’Hiver, and Yarlington Mills for picking starting August 29th. 8 Crosby Lane, Rhinebeck, NY, 845-876-3231

Fishkill Farms

Reservations are required before you pick at this popular farm. Families can pick from over 100 varieties of apples (depending on the month/when you visit). Apple picking starts at the end of August where you can find Earligold apples and Ginger Gold apples. In September, families can pick Fuji, Empire, Gala, Red Delicious, and more. However, their apple (and other fruit) offerings are constantly changing, so check out their website and social media pages before you visit. 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY, 845-897-4377

Rose Hill Farm

Rose Hill Farm offers tons of apples for picking from late-August to mid-October. There is also an on-site market, a tap room, music and special events, and regular pop-ups throughout the season.  Additionally, this family-owned farm utilizes holistic growing practices with a focus on plant and soil health. 14 Rose Hill Farm, Red Hook, NY, 845-758-4215

Greig Farm

If you’re planning a relaxing day of apple picking near Westchester, NY, Greig Farm is a lovely choice, because it’s peaceful, full of charm, and gives families the perfect mix of nature, fun, and fresh air. You can pick apples at this family-owned farm from late August to early October. Here you can find Red Rome, Stayman-Winesap, Jonamac, McIntosh, Gala, Red Delicious, and more. There are also four miles of farm trails for walking/exploring, and a family of goats behind the market that your kids will love feeding. 227 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook, NY, 845-758-1234

Lawrence Farms Orchards 

Those looking for a fun day at an apple orchard in Westchester County often choose Lawrence Farms Orchards for its sweet apples, scenic views, and festive fall atmosphere. Find apples for picking from late-August to October at this farm. Varieties include Macintosh, Jonamac, Honey Crisp, Gala, Empire, Cortland, Red and Golden Delicious, Ida Red, Mutsu, Jonagold, Staymen, Northern Spy, Fuji, Rome, and Granny Smith. There is also a concession stand at the farm where you can get ice cream, apple cider donuts, milkshakes, and more. 306 Frozen Ridge Rd, Newburgh, NY, 845-562-4268

Mead Orchards

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful afternoon or a weekend escape, apple picking in Westchester at Mead Orchards is a lovely way to unwind and enjoy the season. Apple picking starts at the end of August, where you can find Cameo, Cortland, Crimson Gold, Gala, Querina, Pink Lady, RubyFrost, SnapDragon, and many more. 15 Scism Road, Tivoli, NY, 845-756-5641

Top Places for Apple Picking in Rockland County

Dr. Davies Farm

For those searching for a calm and family-friendly place for apple picking in Westchester, Dr. Davies Farm is the ideal choice because it is full of charm and warmth. Dr. Lucy Virginia Meriweather Davies started a farm in Congers, NY, in 1891. Today, the fourth and fifth generations of the Davies Family continue the legacy, welcoming everyone to see the last family farm in Congers. Apple picking begins on August 3oth, and will be available from 10 am to 4:30 pm on both weekends and weekdays. With over 5,000 trees and 27 different apple varieties across 65 acres, visitors can rent picking poles for hard-to-reach apples. All orchard visitors must purchase an apple bag for their pickings. Families should note that apple picking is cash only. 306 NY-304, Congers, NY, 845-268-7020

Top Places for Apple Picking in Ulster County

Apple Hill Farm

Take a road trip to the Apple Hill Farm in New Paltz. The pick-your-own season starts on September 19th, Friday through Sunday, from 10 am- 5 pm. You can find McIntosh, Opalescent, Empire, Mutsu aka Crispin, and more. The farm store also sells apple cider and apple cider donuts, as well as offers hayrides. 124 Route 32 South, New Paltz, NY, 845-255-1605

Hurd’s Family Farm 

The season at Hurd’s kicks off on August 29th. Apples at the farm include Ginger Gold, Paula Red, Empire, SnapDragon, and more. All apples must be picked in a Hurds Family Farm Bag that is purchased before you start. The farm also offers rides and attractions for kids, such as a cow train, obstacle course, hayride, corn maze. and a mini zip-line. 2187 State Route 32 Modena, NY, 845-883-7825

Jenkins-Lueken Orchards

For a fun day at apple orchards in Westchester, many families choose Jenkins-Lueken Orchards for its relaxed setting, variety of apples, and welcoming atmosphere. This orchard opens on August 30th. You and your family can find over 500 varieties of apples. Some types of apples include Gala, Honeycrisp, Empire, Cortland, and more. 69 Yankee Folly Road, New Paltz, NY, 845-255-0999

Kelder’s Farms

Apple picking at Kelder’s Farm runs from September 6th through November 2nd. Varieties include Ginger Gold, Jonamac, Honeycrisp, Empire, Rome, Crispin, and more. This farm is also known for its plethora of activities, where you can enjoy corn mazes and farm attractions. Some popular options include a jumping pillow, combined slides, and mini golf. Kelder’s Farms is also home to the World’s Largest Garden Gnome, which is sure to be super fun for some memorable family pictures. 5755 US Route 209, Kerhonkson, NY, 845-626-7137

Prospect Hill Orchards

Apple picking kicks off in early September at the Prospect Hill Orchards’ family of farms. Choose from three unique locations: the Homestead Farm, offering 15 acres of apple trees, a scenic pond, and a picnic area; the Hilltop Farm, known for its sweeping views and easily accessible apple rows; and Clarke’s Family Farm, a fully operating farm experience. Visitors can also enjoy tractor-pulled hayrides, a corn maze, and even try their hand at pressing fresh cider. 40 Clarkes Lane, Milton, NY, 845-795-2383

Top Places for Apple Picking in the Surrounding Areas

Ochs Orchard

The apple-picking season runs from late August to late November at Ochs Orchard. Families don’t need a reservation to pick. In addition to the apples, Ochs has an on-site farm market stocked with seasonal fruits and veggies and a stand where you can get homemade ice cream! 4 Ochs Lane, Warwick, NY, 845-986-1591

Bishop Orchard

At Bishop Orchard, families can stop by during apple-picking season from late August to late October. While at Bishop Orchard’s, visit their farm market stocked with fresh produce, cheese, bakery items, and bulk staples. Families can also enjoy ice cream, cider, and wine. 1355 Boston Post Road, Guilford, CT, (203) 453-2338

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 Comparison of Family-Friendly Apple Farms in Westchester

Tips for Apple Picking in Westchester

Reference URL: https://52perfectdays.com/featured/apple-picking-on-long-island/#Different_Varieties_of_Apple_Common_to_Long_Island_NY

Apple picking in Westchester is a fun way to spend a day outside with your family. Before you go, it helps to know a few simple tips so everyone can have the best experience.

Once you know the basics, there are a few extra tips that make the day even better. These little ideas will help families stay safe, enjoy snacks, and have a full day of fun while picking apples at Westchester farms like Harvest Moon, Stuart’s, and Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm.

• Pick the Best Apples: Look for apples that feel firm when held and have bright, even colors, because these signs show that the fruit is fresh and ready to eat. Taking a moment to check each apple helps fill the basket with sweet, crunchy pieces that taste great in snacks, lunchboxes, or pies. Searching for the best ones also turns picking into a fun little treasure hunt for everyone.
• Dress for the Outdoors: Wear comfy shoes and clothes that can get a little dusty, because farms have dirt paths, tall grass, and soft soil that can stick to your legs and shoes. It feels much easier to walk around, bend down, and reach for apples when clothes fit well and keep the body comfy. A light jacket or sweater also helps if the wind feels cool.
• Bring a Bag or Basket: Many farms hand out bags, but bringing your own sturdy bag or basket makes things easier, especially when apples start to get heavy. A strong handle helps kids carry fruit without dropping anything, and it also lets families keep all the apples in one safe place while exploring the rest of the farm.
• Take Breaks and Snack: Apple picking can take time, so stopping for a quick snack or a sip of water helps everyone stay happy and full of energy. A warm cider donut, a little fruit, or even a short rest on a bench gives legs a break and keeps the whole group ready to explore more apple trees without feeling tired.
• Follow Farm Rules: Farm rules help everyone stay safe while picking apples. Listening to the staff and reading the signs makes it clear which trees are ready, which areas are closed, and which spots need special tools like long poles to reach high branches. Knowing the rules helps families enjoy the day without worry.

FAQs

1. Where to go apple picking in Westchester?
   You can go apple picking in Westchester at farms like Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard, Stuart’s Fruit Farm, Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm, Lawrence Farms Orchards, and Hurd’s Family Farm. These farms are family-friendly and have lots of apples, fun activities, and tasty treats for kids.
2. When is the best time for apple picking in Westchester?
   The best time is usually from late August through October. Early September is great for smaller apples, and by October, you can pick the bigger, sweeter ones.
3. What should I bring for apple picking in Westchester?
   Bring a bag or basket, comfy shoes, water, and maybe a light jacket if it’s cool. Some farms also sell bags, but having your own makes carrying apples easier for kids.
4. Are Westchester apple farms good for kids?
   Yes! Most farms like Hurd’s Family Farm and Harvest Moon have hayrides, corn mazes, animal experiences, and cider donuts, so kids can have fun while picking apples.