As the summer heat fades and the first whispers of autumn breeze through, there’s one activity that consistently tops the seasonal to-do list: apple picking. A delightful blend of outdoor fun and wholesome harvest, apple picking offers a tangible way to experience the changing season. Whether you’re a fan of tart Granny Smiths or sweet Honeycrisps, orchards come alive with families, laughter, and the promise of freshly baked apple pies. Dive into our latest blog post as we explore this timeless fall tradition and share tips for the perfect orchard day out.
In this article, we’ve listed some of the best apple orchards in New Jersey for a fun day out…
Alstede Farms (Chester)
Offering a wide variety of apple types, Alstede Farms is a favorite destination for many. Beyond apple picking, the farm offers hayrides, a corn maze, and a farm store with fresh produce and baked goods.
- Address: 1 Alstede Farms Ln, Chester, NJ 07930
- Website: alstedefarms.com
Riamede Farm (Chester)
One of the original pick-your-own apple farms in New Jersey, Riamede Farm offers over 30 different apple varieties. The farm emphasizes organic practices, ensuring a healthy picking experience.
- Address: 122 Oakdale Rd, Chester, NJ 07930
- Website: riamede.com0
Wightman Farms (Morristown)
This family-owned farm has been in operation since 1922. They have a variety of apples to pick, a pumpkin patch, and a farm store selling fresh cider donuts, pies, and more.
- Address: 1111 Mt Kemble Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960
- Website: wightmanfarms.com
Battleview Orchards (Freehold)
This family-operated farm provides a scenic apple-picking experience. They also have a country store where you can find fresh pressed apple cider, baked goods, and other local products.
- Address: 91 Wemrock Rd, Freehold, NJ 07728
- Website: battlevieworchards.com
Demarest Farms (Hillsdale)
Beyond apple picking, Demarest Farms offers a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and an evening movie series during the autumn months. The farm store sells homemade pies, fresh produce, and more.
- Address: 244 Wierimus Rd, Hillsdale, NJ 07642
- Website: demarestfarms.com
Hillview Farms (Gillette)
A picturesque destination, Hillview Farms offers a range of apple varieties. The views from the orchard are breathtaking, especially during the fall with the turning leaves.
- Address: 223 Meyersville Rd, Gillette, NJ 07933
- Website: Information might be best obtained by contacting the farm directly or checking local listings.
Sun High Orchards (Randolph)
Another family-operated farm, Sun High Orchards provides a cozy apple picking experience. They also offer hayrides and have a small farm shop with fresh cider and baked treats.
- Address: 19 Canfield Ave, Randolph, NJ 07869
- Website: sunhigh.com
Terhune Orchards (Princeton)
Located near the historic town of Princeton, Terhune Orchards offers more than just apple picking. The farm hosts events, and wine tastings (from their own winery), and has a large farm store with a plethora of products.
- Address: 330 Cold Soil Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540
- Website: terhuneorchards.com
Phillips Farms (Milford)
Along with a variety of apple types, Phillips Farms offers berry picking earlier in the season. The farm is located alongside the Delaware River, making it a picturesque location.
- Address: 290 Church Rd, Milford, NJ 08848
- Website: phillipsfarms.com
Melick’s Town Farm (Oldwick and Califon)
With multiple locations, Melick’s Town Farm offers an extensive apple-picking experience. The Oldwick location is particularly famous for its apple cider, which is made using traditional methods.
- Oldwick Address: 170 Oldwick Rd, Oldwick, NJ 08858
- Califon Address: 472 County Rd 513, Califon, NJ 07830
- Website: melickstownfarm.com
While these are some of the top picks, New Jersey has countless other orchards and farms offering apple-picking opportunities. Before heading out, always call ahead or check the farm’s website to ensure they’re open for picking and to see what varieties are currently available.