The county is the perfect spot for apple picking in the crisp, autumn air and among spectacular scenery, just an hour from New York City. Dozens of varieties flourish in the region, ripening at different times, so there always something new to self-harvest at the “U-Pick” farms through October.
“Who says apples and Orange don’t mix? In Orange County, N.Y., they’re the perfect combination!” said Amanda Dana, Director of Orange County Tourism & film. “Our orchards offer a medley of apples throughout the season and the trees’ branches hang low with fruit waiting to be plucked. And there’s so much more to do and see – including hay rides, corn mazes, live music and farm stores stuffed with local produce, baked goods and preserves – that one day just isn’t enough. Stay for the weekend in one of our many charming lodging options.”
Check individual farms in Orange County, N.Y., for what they offer. They include:
Apple Ridge Orchards, 101 Jessup Road, Warwick: The owners promise the most scenic and rustic pick-your-own orchard around. Come to pluck the apples from the trees, visit the farm stand for fresh-pressed apple cider and homemade apple cider doughnuts; pet and feed the farm animals that have been handfed since they were babies; and take a tractor-pulled hayride. https://appleridgeorchards.com/
Lawrence Farms Orchards, 39 Colandrea Road, Newburgh: The pick-it-yourself fun at Lawrence Farms Orchards goes far beyond apples. In addition to 15 varieties of fall’s favorite fruit, you can also pick grapes, corn, peppers (both sweet and spicy) and much more. Check the website for a list of which crops grow month to month, and call ahead to find out what’s available. Kids will love the miniature New England-style play village. The concession stand’s treats include classic apple cider doughnuts, pies and cookies, and also chicken tenders, hot dogs, paninis and much more. Birthday packages are available. http://lawrencefarmsorchards.org.
Ochs Orchard, 4 Ochs Lane, Warwick: The orchard grows more than 25 varieties of apples, but there’s no need to be confused about what to pick when. Consult the hand chart on the Ochs’ website that tells when the different varieties are ripe and which are best for eating, baking into pies or simmering into applesauce. While you’re there, enjoy a delicious ice cream cone or milk shake with flavors made from the farm’s own berries and fruits. Also visit the farm animals and stop in the farm market, open every day. https://www.ochsorchard.net.
Pennings Orchard and Farm Market, 169 Route 94, Warwick: More than 20 varieties of apples grow on the 50 acres of orchards that have been in the same family for generations. Reservations are strongly suggested for weekend apple-picking visits. There is also a beer garden and a cidery for hard ciders and fresh ciders made from the orchard’s apples. The Harvest Grill offers farm-to-table meals. Kids will love the petting zoo. https://penningsfarmmarket.com.
Sleepy Hills Orchard and Greenhouses, 1328 Route 284, Johnson: Check which apples are ripe and ready to be plucked from the trees on this 47-acre, family-owned farm. You’ll also find flowers and local and homegrown produce for sale, as well as fall décor and accessories and bagged mulch and soil. http://www.sleepyhillsorchard.com/
Soons Orchards, 23 Soons Circle, New Hampton: Harvest time is a great time to visit the orchards, when the store is brimming with homegrown fruit and vegetables, local greens and much more. In the trees, more than 50 varieties of apples ripen throughout the season, waiting for families to come pick them. At the Orchard Hill Cider Mill Tap Room, enjoy a meal or snacks, hand-crafted cocktails and wines, beers and spirits as well as the homegrown and homemade hard ciders. https://www.soonsorchards.com.
To find out more about these and other orchards on the Orange County Tourism website. Visit www.OrangeTourism.org for a full list of lodging, activities, and attractions.
