Food doesn’t get more farm fresh than picking your own apples right off the tree. In Virginia, apple picking is a fall rite of passage and a tradition for many families. These farms offer opportunities for Charlottesville apple picking and lots of other fall produce, products, and adventure. Check it out!
6 Farms for Charlottesville Apple Picking to Make Unique Family Memories
Carter Mountain Orchard
Carter Mountain Orchard is a passion project of Chiles Family Orchards, which has been farming in this area for over one hundred years. Now, they’re a destination for families all around Charlottesville looking to make memories picking apples. On peak weekends, mid-September through early November, you’ll need to purchase a ticket to pick, so plan ahead! When you arrive, you can pick your own apples, visit the Country Store & Bakery, and even enjoy a wine flight while sitting on the patio.
Valley View Farm
Valley View Farm is open from early May through the fall, offering locals Virginia wines and hard ciders, organic fruits and veggies, and the opportunity to pick your produce. In September and October, their ripe apples bring families from all over Charlottesville to gather and join in on the harvest. Before you head home, check out the Locavore Farm Market to browse products like baking mixes, jarred goods, and even furniture from local businesses.
Critzer Family Farm Charlottesville Apple Picking
Critzer Family Farm is a 5th generation family farm that uses environmentally-friendly farming methods to provide the freshest, best-tasting and healthiest farm-grown produce around! Families can experience hard work and integrity while learning where their food comes from – all while having fun! In the fall, you can also purchase pumpkins, apple cider, and home-churned ice cream made with fresh fruit from the farm.
Dickie Brothers Orchard
If you love the idea of apple picking but maybe don’t have the time or need a larger quantity, a visit to Dickie Brothers may be in order! This year, they unfortunately don’t have pick-your-own due to hail damage, but they still have plenty of apples available for you to take home. With popular varieties like Gala, McIntosh, and Honeycrisp, you’ll surely find the perfect apples for whatever you need! This Charlottesville apple-picking farm also has a corn maze, apple cider donuts, apple butter, and plenty of other delicious treats.
Henley’s Orchard
Henley’s Orchard offers over 25 varieties of homegrown apples, which are ideal for baking, snacking, and making delicious apple butter. Family-owned since 1932, today Henley’s Orchard grows a variety of produce, makes estate wines and ciders, and raises grass-fed beef and pork. Visit on a weekend in October to take advantage of HenleyFest for hayrides, live music, apple cider donuts, and so much more!
Seamans’ Orchard, Virginia
Seamans’ Orchard has been offering a Pick-Your-Own weekend every year since 1996. On September 16th and 17th, you can visit with a picnic and a camera to take in the mountain views and enjoy being a part of the harvest. They’ll provide a container to pick your own Red & Golden Delicious, September Wonder, Empire, and Jonagold apples. Like many other Charlottesville families, your family can be a part of this annual tradition.
Charlottesville Apple Picking
Visit one of these fantastic farms for Charlottesville apple picking and make new memories with your family. Be sure to visit with some recipes in mind because you’ll definitely be leaving with plenty of delicious Virginia apples!
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