Massachusetts, renowned for its rich agricultural heritage and scenic landscapes, boasts some of the finest apple orchards in the Northeast.
From the rolling hills of the Berkshires to the picturesque shores of Cape Cod, the Bay State offers a diverse array of orchards that enchant visitors with their abundance of ripe apples, charming ambiance, and seasonal festivities.
Whether you’re seeking a quintessential New England experience of apple picking amidst vibrant fall foliage or indulging in freshly baked apple pies and cider donuts, Massachusetts orchards have something for everyone.
Each orchard carries its own unique charm, from family-owned farms with generations of tradition to sprawling estates offering a range of agritourism activities.
Join us on a journey through the best apple orchards in Massachusetts, where the crisp sweetness of freshly picked apples mingles with the joy of the harvest season.
15 Best Apple Orchards in Massachusetts
Massachusetts boasts a rich agricultural heritage, particularly in the realm of apple orchards.
From quaint family-run farms to sprawling estates, here are 15 of the best apple orchards in the state:
1. Russell Orchards (Ipswich)
Nestled in the scenic North Shore region of Massachusetts, Russell Orchards is a quintessential New England farm experience.
Spread across picturesque grounds, this orchard boasts a delightful array of apple varieties, ensuring visitors can find their favorites or discover new ones.
Beyond apple picking, Russell Orchards offers a plethora of seasonal activities to enjoy, from cider donut tastings to leisurely hayrides through the orchards.
The ambiance is inviting, making it an ideal destination for families, friends, and apple enthusiasts alike.
Rating: 4.6/5
Address: 147 Argilla Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938
Phone: (978) 356-5366
2. Shelburne Farm (Stow)
Shelburne Farm is an expansive orchard spanning over 100 acres of rolling countryside in Stow, Massachusetts. Its idyllic setting provides the perfect backdrop for apple picking amidst the vibrant hues of fall foliage.
Visitors can wander through rows of apple trees, selecting their preferred varieties directly from the branches.
The serene atmosphere and scenic views make Shelburne Farm a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and savor the simple pleasures of the harvest season.
Rating: 4.4/5
Address: 106 W Acton Rd, Stow, MA 01775
Phone: (978) 897-9287
3. Honey Pot Hill Orchards (Stow)
Honey Pot Hill Orchards is renowned for its extensive selection of apple varieties and family-friendly attractions. Situated in the town of Stow, this orchard welcomes visitors with rows upon rows of apple trees ripe for picking.
Families can make cherished memories as they embark on hayrides through the orchards, navigate the winding paths of the farm’s hedge maze, and savor the taste of freshly picked apples.
Whether you’re a seasoned apple enthusiast or simply looking for a fun-filled day out, Honey Pot Hill Orchards offers something for everyone to enjoy amidst its scenic surroundings.
Rating: 4.5/5
Address: 16 Boon Rd, Stow, MA 01775
Phone: (978) 562-5666
4. Bolton Spring Farms (Bolton)
Bolton Spring Farms is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Bolton, Massachusetts, offering a bounty of seasonal delights.
With over 25 varieties of apples to choose from, visitors can embark on a flavorful journey through the orchards, sampling crisp and juicy apples straight from the trees.
The farm’s rustic charm adds to the experience, inviting guests to linger and savor the sights, scents, and tastes of autumn.
Be sure to indulge in seasonal treats like freshly pressed apple cider and warm, aromatic pies, adding an extra layer of sweetness to your visit.
Rating: 4.6/5
Address: 149 Main St, Bolton, MA 01740
Phone: (978) 779-2898
5. Doe Orchards (Harvard)
Set amidst the rolling hills of Harvard, Massachusetts, Doe Orchards provides a picturesque backdrop for fall festivities and apple picking adventures.
Visitors can wander through the orchards, selecting their favorite apples from the abundant harvest. Beyond apple picking, the orchard offers a variety of activities for all ages, including pumpkin picking and cider pressing demonstrations.
The rustic charm of Doe Orchards, combined with its scenic beauty, makes it a beloved destination for families and nature enthusiasts seeking a taste of rural New England charm.
Rating: 4.8/5
Address: 327 Ayer Rd, Harvard, MA 01451
Phone: (978) 772-4139
6. Cider Hill Farm (Amesbury)
Located in Amesbury, Massachusetts, Cider Hill Farm offers more than just apple picking. Visitors can delve into the art of cider-making at the cidery, where artisanal ciders crafted from locally sourced apples await sampling.
This adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the traditional apple-picking experience, providing an opportunity to taste the fruits of the farm’s labor in a refreshing and unique way.
Rating: 4.7/5
Address: 45 Fern Ave, Amesbury, MA 01913
Phone: (978) 388-5525
7. Brooksby Farm (Peabody)
Steeped in history, Brooksby Farm in Peabody, Massachusetts, offers a charming blend of apple picking, pumpkin patches, and a quaint farm stand brimming with fresh produce and homemade treats.
From crisp apples to vibrant pumpkins, visitors can immerse themselves in the bounty of the harvest season while enjoying the rustic charm of this historic farm. The farm stand provides a tempting array of goodies, perfect for indulging in farm-fresh flavors.
Rating: 4.5/5
Address: 54 Felton St, Peabody, MA 01960
Phone: (978) 531-7456
8. Applecrest Farm Orchards (Hampton Falls)
Just a stone’s throw across the border in New Hampshire, Applecrest Farm Orchards beckons Massachusetts residents with its scenic vistas and extensive orchards. Despite its location, it remains a beloved destination for apple picking enthusiasts from the Bay State.
With sprawling orchards and panoramic views, Applecrest Farm Orchards offers an idyllic setting for apple picking adventures. Visitors can also treat themselves to the farm’s renowned apple cider donuts, adding an irresistible sweet note to their visit.
Rating: 4.6/5
Address: 133 Exeter Rd, Hampton Falls, NH 03844
Phone: (603) 926-3721
9. Tougas Family Farm (Northborough)
Tougas Family Farm, nestled in Northborough, Massachusetts, is a haven for apple lovers, boasting over 50 varieties of apples ripe for the picking.
In addition to apple picking, the farm offers a host of family-friendly activities, including corn mazes and hayrides, ensuring a fun-filled day out for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect apple for baking or simply enjoying the crisp autumn air, Tougas Family Farm provides a welcoming and memorable experience.
Rating: 4.6/5
Address: 234 Ball St, Northborough, MA 01532
Phone: (508) 393-6406
10. Parlee Farms (Tyngsborough)
As a family-owned farm in Tyngsborough, Massachusetts, Parlee Farms delights visitors with its wide variety of apples and seasonal attractions.
Beyond apple picking, the farm offers a pumpkin patch where visitors can select their own pumpkins and an opportunity for children to interact with farm animals.
Parlee Farms embodies the spirit of the harvest season, providing a charming and immersive experience for families seeking wholesome fun amidst the beauty of the countryside.
Rating: 4.5/5
Address: 95 Farwell Rd, Tyngsborough, MA 01879
Phone: (978) 649-3854
11. Ward’s Berry Farm (Sharon)
While Ward’s Berry Farm in Sharon, Massachusetts, is best known for its bountiful berry crops, visitors can also enjoy a delightful selection of apples for picking during the fall season.
The farm’s picturesque orchards provide a serene backdrop for apple picking, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Additionally, Ward’s Berry Farm features a farm store stocked with an array of fresh produce and gourmet foods, allowing visitors to indulge in the flavors of the season and take home a taste of the farm’s bounty.
Rating: 4.5/5
Address: 614 S Main St, Sharon, MA 02067
Phone: (781) 784-3600
12. Clearview Farm (Sterling)
Nestled in Sterling, Massachusetts, Clearview Farm exudes charm with its picturesque orchards and inviting farm stand.
Apple picking enthusiasts can roam through the orchards, selecting their favorite varieties amidst the beauty of the countryside.
Afterward, visitors can browse the farm stand, which is brimming with fresh produce and homemade treats, offering a delightful sampling of the farm’s offerings.
Whether you’re seeking crisp apples or delectable baked goods, Clearview Farm promises a memorable and satisfying experience.
Rating: 4.6/5
Address: 4 Kendall Hill Rd, Sterling, MA 01564
Phone: (978) 422-6442
13. Nashoba Valley Winery (Bolton)
While renowned for its vineyards and award-winning wines, Nashoba Valley Winery in Bolton, Massachusetts, also offers a delightful apple-picking experience during the fall months.
Visitors can wander through the orchards, taking in the scenic beauty while selecting their favorite apple varieties.
This unique opportunity allows guests to enjoy the beauty of the orchards while savoring the flavors of freshly picked apples.
Nashoba Valley Winery seamlessly blends the pleasures of wine tasting with the joys of apple picking, creating a memorable and immersive experience for visitors.
Rating: 4.3/5
Address: 100 Wattaquadock Hill Rd, Bolton, MA 01740
Phone: (978) 779-5521
14. Keith’s Farm (Acushnet)
Situated in southeastern Massachusetts, Keith’s Farm offers a tranquil setting for apple picking amidst the beauty of the countryside.
Visitors can wander through the orchards, selecting their favorite apples from the abundant harvest. Afterward, guests can visit the farm stand, which is stocked with seasonal fruits and vegetables, providing an opportunity to take home farm-fresh produce.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect apple or looking to stock up on seasonal goodies, Keith’s Farm offers a serene and rewarding experience for visitors of all ages.
Rating: 4.2/5
Address: 1149 Main St, Acushnet, MA 02743
Phone: (508) 763-2622
15. Clarkdale Fruit Farms (Deerfield)
Known for its heirloom apple varieties, Clarkdale Fruit Farms in Deerfield, Massachusetts, offers a unique apple picking experience that celebrates the diversity of apple cultivars.
Visitors can explore the orchards, discovering lesser-known varieties while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
This immersive experience allows guests to connect with the heritage and flavors of New England’s apple-growing tradition.
With its commitment to preserving heirloom varieties and providing a memorable picking experience, Clarkdale Fruit Farms offers a truly special destination for apple enthusiasts.
Rating: 4.8/5
Address: 303 Upper Rd, Deerfield, MA 01342
Phone: (413) 772-6797
FAQs
What’s the Best Time to Go Apple Picking in Massachusetts?
The prime time for apple picking in Massachusetts typically spans from late August through late October.
What Month Is Best for Apple Picking?
September is generally considered the best month for apple picking in Massachusetts. During this time, many varieties are at their peak ripeness, offering the best flavor and texture.
However, some orchards may start offering apple picking as early as late August, while others may extend into October.
How Many Apple Orchards Are There in Massachusetts?
There are approximately 100-150 apple orchards scattered across the state, each offering its own unique charm and selection of apple varieties.
Wrap Up
As the season transitions and the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, the apple orchards of Massachusetts stand as timeless symbols of autumn’s bounty and rural charm.
From the north to the south, these orchards offer more than just apple picking; they provide an opportunity to connect with nature, savor the flavors of locally grown produce, and create cherished memories with loved ones.
Whether you’re drawn to the scenic vistas of the Berkshires, the coastal beauty of Cape Cod, or the rolling hills of central Massachusetts, there’s an orchard waiting to welcome you with open arms.
As we bid farewell to another fruitful season, let us carry the warmth of these orchards in our hearts, reminding us of the simple joys found in the orchards of Massachusetts.
Neal McGovern