Fall in New England isn’t complete without a trip to an apple orchard, and Boston boasts some of the best.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a romantic day in the countryside, the orchards around Boston offer something for everyone.
From picking your own apples to enjoying fresh cider donuts, these spots provide the perfect autumn experience.
This guide highlights 11 of the best apple orchards near Boston, each offering unique activities and delicious varieties of apples.
Get ready to plan your perfect fall adventure and discover why these orchards are must-visits for anyone in the area.
Top 11 Best Apple Orchards Near Boston
Fall in New England is synonymous with apple picking, and the orchards around Boston offer some of the finest fall experiences.
From family-friendly activities to romantic getaways, these orchards provide everything from pick-your-own apples to fresh cider donuts.
Here’s a guide to the top 11 apple orchards near Boston for a perfect autumn outing.
1. Honey Pot Hill Orchards
Honey Pot Hill Orchards, located at 16 Boon Rd, Stow, MA, is only 45 minutes from downtown Boston. Renowned for its recreational activities, the orchard has something for everyone. They offer hayrides, hedge mazes, and an animal farm, making it perfect for family outings.
Visitors enjoy apple picking from mid-August to late October. Over 200 acres house a wide variety of apple trees including McIntosh, Cortland, and Honeycrisp.
The orchard’s website, honeypothill.com, provides detailed picking schedules and seasonal updates.
Honey Pot Hill is highly rated, with a 4.5-star ranking from 1,639 reviews. It’s a hotspot for both quality fruit and memorable experiences.
Don’t miss the famous cider donuts and fresh apple cider available in their farm store, which opens at 9 AM daily. For inquiries, contact (978) 562-5666.
2. Belkin Family Lookout Farm – U-Pick Orchard – Taproom, Outdoor Dining and Market
Belkin Family Lookout Farm, located in Natick, MA, is a quintessential fall destination near Boston. With a 3.6-star rating from 795 reviews, this farm offers something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy U-pick apple varieties, ensuring a fresh and personalized experience.
The farm also features a taproom where guests can sample farm-brewed ciders and beers, perfect for relaxing after a day of apple picking.
Outdoor dining is available, making it convenient for families to enjoy meals amidst picturesque farm scenery. Also, the farm hosts a market that sells local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
With its diverse offerings, Belkin Family Lookout Farm stands out as a must-visit spot for an unforgettable autumn outing.
3. Carlson Orchards, Inc
Carlson Orchards, Inc, located at 115 Oak Hill Rd, Harvard, MA, is a must-visit for apple enthusiasts. This orchard opens daily at 9 AM, inviting visitors to explore its bountiful apple trees and picturesque landscapes.
With a stellar 4.6-star rating from 645 reviews, it’s renowned for its high-quality produce and welcoming atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy picking a variety of apples, including popular types like Honeycrisp and McIntosh. The orchard’s well-maintained facilities and friendly staff enhance the overall experience.
Activities extend beyond apple picking, with opportunities to sample fresh apple cider in the farm store.
For those planning a visit, Carlson Orchards’ convenient proximity to Boston makes it an ideal day trip destination.
The orchard provides a quintessential New England autumn experience, perfect for families looking to create lasting memories.
4. Carver Hill Orchard
Carver Hill Orchard in Stow, MA, is a must-visit for those seeking a classic New England apple-picking experience. With a 4.6-star rating from 151 reviews, this orchard is known for its scenic beauty and diverse apple varieties.
Visitors can enjoy picking apples and tomatoes straight from the orchard. Beyond the picking experience, the on-site store and café offer delectable pies and the ever-popular cider donuts, ensuring guests leave with a taste of fall.
Located at 101 Brookside Ave, the orchard opens daily at 9 AM. Check their website for the latest updates and plan a visit for a delightful autumn outing.
5. Shelburne Farm
Shelburne Farm in Stow, MA, is a top destination for apple picking near Boston. With a 4.4-star rating from 492 reviews, this orchard offers a delightful autumn experience.
Visitors can explore its vast grounds, enjoying the scenic beauty while picking various apple varieties.
Office hours start at 9 AM, making it convenient for early risers. Shelburne Farm serves as an exceptional spot for family outings, featuring activities like hayrides and a farm stand.
Located at 106 W Acton Rd, it’s easily accessible for a day trip from Boston. Don’t miss their delicious apple cider, a favorite among returning visitors. For more details, visit shelburnefarm.com or call (978) 897-9287.
6. Boston Hill Farm
Boston Hill Farm, located at 1370 Turnpike St in North Andover, MA, is a top-rated destination with a 4.3-star rating from 261 reviews.
This charming farm is perfect for family outings and opens daily at 9 AM. Visitors can enjoy picking a variety of apple types and exploring the farm’s festive activities.
They offer events like hayrides and pumpkin picking during the fall season. The farm store sells fresh produce and homemade treats, making it an ideal stop for locally sourced goodies.
With its accessible location and diverse activities, Boston Hill Farm provides a memorable apple-picking experience near Boston.
7. Smolak Farms
Located in North Andover, MA, Smolak Farms is a favorite with a rating of 4.3-stars from 1,288 reviews. It offers a variety of apple-picking options and activities that appeal to families and couples alike.
The farm opens at 7 AM and features various apple types, including McIntosh and Honeycrisp. Visitors can enjoy scenic hayrides, a vibrant farm stand, and a bakery with delightful treats like cider donuts and pies.
The charming setting and family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a quintessential New England fall adventure.
Another top pick is Russell Orchards in Ipswich, MA, boasting a 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews. Russell Orchards not only offers a wide selection of apples but also features homemade wine, fresh cider, and pet-friendly grounds.
Their farm store is stocked with delicious pies and local produce, ideal for those looking to take home a taste of fall.
Whether you’re there for the apple-picking or to explore the picturesque farm, Russell Orchards promises an unforgettable experience.
8. Westward Orchards
Located in Harvard, MA, Westward Orchards offers a quintessential New England autumn outing. They boast a 4.7-star rating from 188 reviews, showcasing their popularity.
Open from 10 AM, this orchard features pick-your-own apples, blueberries, and pumpkins. Visitors can enjoy a farm store and a café famous for their apple cider donuts.
The orchard’s convenient location at 178 Mass Ave makes it easily accessible for a day trip from Boston. Whether you’re looking to pick fresh produce or savor seasonal treats, Westward Orchards provides a well-rounded, family-friendly experience that’s perfect for fall.
Another standout is Honey Pot Hill Orchards, located in Stow, MA. Known for its scenic beauty and a maze made from hedges, it offers a variety of apple species for picking.
9. Russell Orchards
Located in Ipswich, MA, Russell Orchards is a must-visit spot for apple picking near Boston. With a solid 4.5-star rating from 419 reviews, it offers families and couples delightful experiences.
Open from 9 AM, visitors can explore the sprawling 120-acre farm, which features a variety of apples to pick, such as McIntosh and Cortland.
The orchard also boasts a winery that produces fruit-inspired wines and a bakery known for its apple cider donuts and pies.
Families can enjoy the on-site petting zoo and scenic hayrides. The farm store sells fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local honey, making it a perfect fall destination.
10. Cider Hill Farm
Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury, MA, stands out with a stellar 4.7-star rating from 1,595 reviews. This orchard is renowned for its delicious apple cider donuts and freshly pressed cider.
Visitors can enjoy picking a variety of apples and flowers, making it a perfect spot for families and couples.
The farm opens daily at 8 AM, providing ample time to explore its scenic grounds and partake in fruit-picking activities.
Located at 45 Fern Ave, Cider Hill Farm offers an ideal autumn outing near Boston, combining locally grown produce with engaging, family-friendly experiences.
11. Dowse Orchards Pick-Your-Own Field
Dowse Orchards Pick-Your-Own Field lies at 30 Rockwood St, Sherborn, MA. Rated 4.7 stars by 31 reviewers, this orchard offers an excellent pick-your-own produce experience.
Visitors can enjoy apple picking from mid-September through October. The orchard opens at 10 AM on Saturdays, perfect for weekend family outings.
With a rich history, Dowse Orchards has been in operation for over 200 years, ensuring quality and tradition in every visit.
They offer a variety of apple types, including McIntosh, Cortland, and Honeycrisp. Their website, dowseorchards.com, provides more information and seasonal updates.
This orchard provides a quaint, scenic environment, making it ideal for a peaceful autumn day. Visitors can also reach out via phone at (508) 653-2639 for more details on availability and events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly activities at these orchards?
Yes, many orchards such as Honey Pot Hill Orchards and Russell Orchards offer family-friendly activities including hayrides, petting zoos, and adventure parks, making them perfect for a day out with kids.
Can couples find romantic settings at these orchards?
Absolutely. Orchards like Shelburne Farm and Carver Hill Orchard provide scenic beauty and peaceful environments, which are ideal for a romantic day out.
What types of apples can be picked at these orchards?
Apple varieties vary by orchard but commonly include McIntosh, Cortland, Honeycrisp, and Fuji. Each orchard typically offers a selection of different apple types to pick throughout the season.
Are there any unique offerings at these orchards?
Yes, for example, Belkin Family Lookout Farm boasts a taproom for sampling farm-brewed ciders, and Cider Hill Farm is famous for its apple cider donuts and freshly pressed cider.
Do these orchards have any historical significance?
Yes, Dowse Orchards in Sherborn, MA, has a rich history dating back over 200 years, providing a unique and historic atmosphere for visitors.
Are there options for food and drink at these orchards?
Yes, many orchards feature farm stands, bakeries, or taprooms. For instance, Smolak Farms has a bakery, and Belkin Family Lookout Farm offers a taproom for cider tasting.
Conclusion
Visiting apple orchards near Boston during the fall offers a unique blend of recreation and nature. Each orchard provides distinctive experiences, from hayrides at Honey Pot Hill to cider tastings at Belkin Family Lookout Farm.
Families can enjoy petting zoos at Russell Orchards, while couples may find Shelburne Farm’s scenic beauty perfect for a romantic day out.
Busy weekends can start at Cider Hill Farm, known for its apple cider donuts, or Dowse Orchards, rich in history and apple varieties.
These orchards not only highlight the charm of New England but also create cherished fall memories. For those seeking vibrant photo opportunities, Parlee Farms boasts picturesque landscapes and sunflower fields.
Meanwhile, Connors Farm offers thrilling corn mazes and a variety of seasonal events.
Timothy Russell Dewart