Crisp autumn breeze, fall foliage, the leaves crackling beneath my feet, pumpkins and mums on my doorstep, apple cinnamon and pumpkin spiced treats – these are a few of my favorite things! We are in the thick of fall, and I think many would agree that it is a long awaited season enjoyed by many. Across the country families enjoy going apple picking and visiting pumpkin patches. Hay rides, corn mazes, apple fritters and apple cider, what’s not to love? Best of all, this is an outdoor family friendly activity that hopefully everyone in your family can enjoy regardless of age.

Not sure where to start? I’ve rounded up eight great places to go for apple picking and pumpkin farms across the country. Some have activities that are closing on Nov. 1, so get out this weekend if you can!

Dates & hours of operation: through November 1, 2020; Wednesday-Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

This has become our family favorite, initially recommended to my husband by his cousins who enjoyed the orchard back in August. My family and I went earlier this month and basked in the beautiful fall mountain scenery. It was quite a serene feeling, and although the orchard was out of apples to pick for the season, my family and I were able to take a stroll in the orchard and breath in the clean mountain air as our kids ran between the apple trees. We also enjoyed fresh apple pie with ice cream and a beautiful view. The orchard is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, which makes it an optimal location for exploring various parks, hiking trails and taking in the majestic scenery of the Appalachian Mountains.

Dates & hours of operation: 8 a.m.–6 p.m. daily

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, Love Apple Farm is the place to go. Famous for their apple cider donuts and apple picking, guests can also load up on fresh produce at the farm’s market. Aside from apples, the farm grows a variety of other fruits such as berries, cherries and peaches. They also make an assortment of delectable desserts in their bakery. Get lost in the corn maze and pay a visit to the farm animal petting zoo. There’s something for every member of the family here!

Cider Hill Farm – Amesbury, Massachusetts

Dates & hours of operation: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily

Apple and pumpkin picking aren’t the only things you’ll find at Cider Hill farm. Here you’ll find a list of family friendly activities everyone will enjoy. They also offer a Thanksgiving menu and Thanksgiving kits that you can order and pick up for a hearty meal without the hassle!

Red Apple Barn – Ellijay, Georgia

Dates & hours of operation: August-December 23, 2020; Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.

Although apple picking season is over at the Red Apple Barn, there is still lots to do and see. This is a great farm to plan a picnic lunch with your family surrounded by the beautiful fall foliage and pumpkins as far as the eye can see. Leave some room for an apple cider donut and sip on apple cider as you walk along the creek.

Spicer Apple Orchard – Fenton, Michigan

Dates & hours of operation: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; Last wagon leaves at 5:30 p.m.

Looking for a farm to visit throughout the year for your fruit picking? Spicer Apple Orchard is not only great for apple picking season, but their harvest schedule makes it easy to plan your visits depending on what fruit is in season. Berries, cherries, fall and summer apples, peaches, pears and plums, this is your farm if you’re looking for the ultimate fruit picking experience!

Jonamac Orchard – Malta, Illinois

Dates & hours of operation: August 29-November 1, 2020; Friday - Sunday 9 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.

Store & bakery are open August 19-November 25, 2020; Daily 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

In November the store & bakery are closed on Monday & Tuesday and closes at 5 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday

From pumpkin and apple picking, to apple launchers and cannons, Jonamac Orchards is the place to go for a fun spin on your typical fall time activities. Guests can also enjoy riding ponies, an apple train and hayrides. They even have a playground for the young ones. For those who love a little thrill, the orchard also offers a haunted corn maze experience. My absolute favorite attractions are the campfire sites that are available to rent! Perfect for an intimate, cozy family outing.

Blooms & Berries Farm Market – Loveland, Ohio

Dates & hours of operation: September 19-November 1, 2020; Monday-Sunday 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

A ticket to Blooms & Berries Farm will allow you to enjoy a variety of fun farm activities and attractions, including hayrides, a pumpkin bounce pad, the corn maze (there is a mini one!), cow train, a playground and farm animals. If you have young ones, this is the farm to visit. Don’t forget to pick up a pumpkin or two on your way out! Note that tickets for visiting Blooms and Berries Farm Market are available online only.

Preston Trail Farms – Gunter, Texas

Dates & hours of operation: September 26-November 25, 2020; Monday-Sunday 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

If you’re in the Dallas area and want to take part in the fall festivities, this farm is open through November. Pumpkin patches, hay rides, petting barn, hay maze, they’ve got it all!

Be sure to call ahead and plan your visits in order to take full advantage of the activities offered. Don’t forget to keep a safe distance between you and other guests and wear a mask. Happy fall from the Haute Hijab team!