Fall brings magic to the Philadelphia area, and nothing captures that autumn spirit quite like wandering through apple orchards with a basket in hand. Apple picking has become a beloved tradition for families, couples, and friends looking to escape the city and embrace the season’s bounty. From Delaware County classics to hidden gems across state lines, the region offers incredible variety for your perfect fall adventure.
1. Linvilla Orchards — Media, PA (Delco Classic)
Linvilla Orchards represents everything magical about fall in Delaware County.
This well-established farm runs like clockwork during peak season, hosting their famous Apple Festival when the harvest reaches its prime. Their website becomes your best friend, posting real-time updates about which varieties are ready for picking.
Beyond apples, you’ll discover hayrides, farm activities, and that bakery everyone raves about. Smart visitors check the Pick-Your-Own status before making the drive to avoid disappointment.
2. Highland Orchards — West Chester, PA (Chester County Staple)
Apple variety hunters, rejoice! Highland Orchards takes pride in growing dozens of different apple types, from classic Honeycrisp to rare heirloom varieties you won’t find at grocery stores. Each weekend brings new discoveries as different trees reach peak ripeness.
Hayrides bounce along scenic paths while kids clutch their picking bags with determination. The smell of cider donuts creates an irresistible trail leading back to the farm store.
Their Pick-Your-Own page updates regularly, showing exactly what’s ready for harvest. Veterans know to check before visiting, especially during busy October weekends when popular varieties disappear quickly from the trees.
3. Solebury Orchards — New Hope, PA (Bucks Beauty)
Nestled in Bucks County’s rolling countryside, Solebury Orchards offers postcard-perfect scenery that makes every Instagram photo look professional. The picturesque setting attracts visitors from across the Delaware Valley seeking that quintessential fall experience.
Wagon rides become mini tours through the property during apple season, with knowledgeable guides sharing farming wisdom. Weekend reservations are absolutely essential from September through October due to overwhelming popularity.
Smart planners book early and check the farm’s website for current picking details. The combination of stunning views and quality fruit makes this spot worth the advance planning required for busy fall weekends.
4. Styer Orchard — Langhorne, PA (Family-Friendly Bucks)
Township preservation saved this working orchard from development, creating a authentic agricultural experience right in suburban Bucks County. Families appreciate the straightforward approach to apple picking without overwhelming crowds or complicated systems.
The orchard maintains a simple, old-fashioned charm that appeals to parents seeking genuine farm experiences for their children. Trees grow close enough together for easy picking, making it perfect for little hands and shorter attention spans.
Their website clearly lists current picking varieties, basic rules, and operating hours. The no-frills approach means more focus on quality fruit and less on commercial attractions, appealing to purists who want apples, not entertainment.
5. Shady Brook Farm — Yardley, PA (Timed Picking Pass)
Organization meets orchard life at Shady Brook Farm, where the innovative Picking Pass system prevents overcrowding while ensuring everyone gets quality picking time. This approach revolutionizes the traditional free-for-all orchard experience.
Timed passes mean you’ll actually enjoy peaceful moments among the trees instead of fighting crowds for the best apples. The system works brilliantly during peak season when other farms become chaotic.
Check their crop calendar and Pass listings well before your planned visit, especially for weekend slots that fill quickly. The extra planning pays off with a more relaxed, enjoyable apple-picking adventure that doesn’t feel rushed or competitive.
6. Indian Orchards — Media, PA (Small, Old-Trees Vibe)
Thirty-five acres of heirloom apple trees create an intimate, almost secret garden atmosphere at this family-run treasure. Ancient varieties grow on gnarled branches that have witnessed decades of Delaware County seasons.
The low-key Pick-Your-Own experience feels like visiting your grandmother’s farm, where quality trumps quantity every time. Heirloom apples offer flavors and textures completely different from supermarket varieties.
Their official page highlights multiple fall apple varieties, each with unique characteristics worth discovering. Apple enthusiasts particularly appreciate the rare breeds that disappeared from commercial farming but survive here through dedicated family stewardship spanning generations.
7. Weaver’s Orchard — Morgantown (Near Reading), PA
Daily updates during harvest season make Weaver’s Orchard a reliable choice for spontaneous apple-picking adventures. Located south of Reading, this popular destination attracts visitors willing to drive a bit further for exceptional variety and quality.
The farm grows apples alongside other seasonal crops, creating a diverse agricultural experience beyond just fruit picking. Families often combine apple picking with exploring other harvest offerings available simultaneously.
Their Pick-Your-Own page receives daily attention during peak season, ensuring visitors know exactly what’s available before making the drive. This commitment to communication prevents disappointing trips when specific varieties sell out or weather affects picking conditions unexpectedly.
8. Milburn Orchards — Elkton, MD (Just Past Newark, DE)
Cross state lines for this easy Philadelphia day trip that delivers serious apple-picking satisfaction. Weekend U-Pick operations run smoothly from September through October, with posted variety schedules taking the guesswork out of planning.
Maryland’s growing season creates slightly different apple characteristics compared to Pennsylvania orchards, offering subtle flavor variations that fruit enthusiasts notice and appreciate. The drive becomes part of the adventure.
Weekly updates keep visitors informed about which varieties are reaching peak ripeness. Smart pickers check the schedule before traveling, especially later in the season when popular varieties may have limited availability remaining on the trees.
9. Johnson’s Corner Farm — Medford, NJ (South Jersey Favorite)
Hayrides transport families directly to the heart of South Jersey apple country, where picking season typically kicks off in early September and continues through October’s colorful finale. The farm atmosphere feels authentically rural despite suburban proximity.
Fall festival extras transform simple apple picking into full-day family adventures. Children especially love the hayride journey to reach the orchards, building anticipation before the actual picking begins.
Johnson’s Corner has earned its reputation as a regional favorite through consistent quality and reliable seasonal operations. The combination of accessible location, family-friendly activities, and quality fruit keeps South Jersey families returning year after year for their autumn traditions.
10. Mood’s Farm Market — Mullica Hill, NJ
Generations of South Jersey families have made autumn pilgrimages to this long-running farm operation, where Pick-Your-Own traditions span decades. The established reputation speaks to consistent quality and reliable seasonal operations.
Variety availability changes throughout the season, making each visit potentially different from the last. Regular website monitoring near your planned visit date ensures you’ll find exactly what you’re hoping to pick.
The farm market component adds shopping opportunities beyond just apple picking, creating a complete agricultural experience. Veterans know that calling ahead or checking online prevents disappointment when specific apple varieties are temporarily unavailable or completely picked clean by earlier visitors.
11. Terhune Orchards — Princeton, NJ
Simplicity defines the Terhune experience: buy farm bags at check-in, then head straight to the orchards without complicated ticketing systems or confusing procedures. Their clearly posted Pick-Your-Own schedule eliminates guesswork about timing and availability.
Princeton’s academic atmosphere somehow extends to this well-organized farm operation, where efficiency meets agricultural tradition. The straightforward approach appeals to families wanting apples without unnecessary complications.
No separate tickets required for apple picking means less time in lines and more time among the trees. The clear guidelines posted throughout the property help first-time visitors navigate the experience while respecting farm operations and other picking families.
12. Hill Creek Farms — Mullica Hill, NJ (Special Note, 2025)
Bittersweet news marks 2025 as Hill Creek’s final apple-picking season, making this year’s visit extra meaningful for longtime fans. Opening September 6th, the farm offers one last chance to experience their Jonagold apples and simple hayride charm.
Gloucester County visitors have a unique opportunity to bid farewell to this local institution while enjoying quality apple picking. The limited season adds poignancy to what might otherwise be just another orchard visit.
Simple hayrides and focus on Jonagold varieties keep things uncomplicated during this farewell season. If you’re already exploring Gloucester County, Hill Creek provides a nice apple-picking option with the added significance of experiencing agricultural history before it ends forever.
