Fall in New England brings a tapestry of vibrant foliage, crisp air, and the irresistible allure of apple picking.
For those in MetroWest Boston, the region offers a bounty of picturesque orchards perfect for a family outing or a romantic weekend adventure.
From heirloom varieties to modern favorites, these orchards provide a delightful escape from city life.
Whether you’re a seasoned apple picker or a first-timer, MetroWest Boston’s orchards promise a memorable experience.
Discover the 12 best spots where you can wander through rows of apple trees, savor fresh cider donuts, and enjoy the simple pleasures of autumn.
Top 12 Best Apple Picking Metrowests Boston
Apple picking is a beloved autumn tradition in the MetroWest Boston area. These farms and orchards offer not only an abundance of apple varieties but also scenic views, fun activities, and farm-fresh products.
Here are the top 12 best apple-picking spots in MetroWest Boston:
1. Shelburne Farm
Shelburne Farm offers a delightful apple-picking experience in the heart of MetroWest Boston. Located at 106 W Acton Rd, Stow, MA, this family-friendly orchard is perfect for weekend getaways. With a rating of 4.4 stars from 492 reviews, it’s a favored choice among locals and visitors alike.
Shelburne Farm opens at 9 AM, providing ample time to explore its vast orchard. Visitors can pick from a wide variety of apples, including popular types like Macintosh and Honeycrisp. After picking, families can enjoy fresh cider donuts, a must-try treat renowned in the area.
The orchard’s picturesque landscape is perfect for photo opportunities amidst vibrant fall foliage. For those seeking more than just apple picking, Shelburne Farm offers hayrides, a corn maze, and a country store stocked with local products.
Contact Shelburne Farm at (978) 897-9287 or visit shelburnefarm.com for more information. Make a day of it with friends and family for an unforgettable autumn outing.
2. Allandale Farm
Allandale Farm, located at 259 Allandale Rd, Chestnut Hill, MA, is a hidden gem for apple picking enthusiasts.
With a 4.7-star rating from 396 reviews, it promises an excellent experience. The farm opens at 11 AM, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer a leisurely start.
Visitors can explore a variety of apple types, perfect for baking or snacking. Activities at Allandale Farm go beyond apple picking. Families can enjoy hayrides, pumpkin patches, and farm animals, making it an ideal day out.
For more information, visit their website at allandalefarm.com or call (617) 524-1531. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this charming farm and its autumn offerings.
3. Honey Pot Hill Orchards
Honey Pot Hill Orchards, nestled at 16 Boon Rd, Stow, MA, is a must-visit for fall enthusiasts. With a 4.5-star rating from 1,639 reviews, it’s known for its family-friendly activities.
Visitors can enjoy fruit picking, with apples being the star attraction. Varieties include McIntosh, Cortland, and Honeycrisp.
The orchard isn’t just about apples. They offer entertaining hayrides, challenging hedge mazes, and an array of farm animals, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. Opening at 9 AM, Honey Pot Hill makes for a perfect early start to your fall day.
For more information, check their website at honeypothill.com or call (978) 562-5666. Don’t miss capturing beautiful moments amidst the picturesque New England fall backdrop.
4. Carver Hill Orchard
Carver Hill Orchard, rated 4.6 stars by 151 reviewers, is a prime apple-picking venue in Stow, MA. Located at 101 Brookside Ave, this working orchard opens at 9 AM and offers a delightful experience for visitors.
It features a variety of apples and tomatoes for picking, making it a versatile choice for fresh produce enthusiasts.
The on-site store and café are well-known for their delectable pies and cider donuts, adding to the orchard’s charm.
Visitors can enjoy these tasty treats after a fruitful day of apple picking. The family-friendly environment makes it perfect for a weekend outing. For more details, check their website at carverhillorchard.com or call (978) 897-6117.
5. Carlson Orchards, Inc
Carlson Orchards, Inc, located at 115 Oak Hill Rd, Harvard, MA, is a top destination for apple picking enthusiasts.
With a 4.6-star rating from 645 reviews, this orchard is well-loved for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive apple varieties, including Honeycrisp and McIntosh.
Opening at 9 AM, visitors can enjoy not only apple picking but also delicious fresh cider and homemade donuts. The orchard regularly hosts events and offers hayrides, making it a perfect fall adventure.
For more details, visit their website at carlsonorchards.com or call (978) 456-3916. Belkin Family Lookout Farm in Natick also ranks among the best apple-picking locations in the Metrowest area, boasting a variety of apples from September through October.
This farm offers a unique experience with its U-pick fruits, children’s play area, and train rides. Visitors can also tour the farm’s greenhouse and sample local hard ciders crafted onsite.
Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, it’s a fantastic spot for a full day of family fun. Visit their website at lookoutfarm.com for more information or call (508) 653-0653.
6. Doe Orchards
Doe Orchards in Harvard, MA, is renowned for its 4.8-star rating from 186 reviews, making it a prime spot for apple picking in MetroWest Boston.
Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, the orchard offers a variety of apple types and features scenic beauty, fresh apple cider, and homemade treats, ideal for families and couples. For more information, visit doeorchards.com or call (978) 772-4139.
Honey Pot Hill Orchards in Stow, MA, is another top choice, boasting a family-friendly atmosphere and a wide range of apple varieties.
With hayrides, a hedge maze, and farm animals, this orchard provides an enjoyable day out for visitors of all ages. For seasonal hours and more, visit honeypothill.com or call (978) 562-5666.
7. Westward Orchards
Westward Orchards, located at 178 Mass Ave, Harvard, MA, holds a 4.7-star rating from 188 reviews. This family-friendly destination opens at 10 AM and offers a delightful apple-picking experience.
Visitors can pick their own apples, blueberries, and pumpkins, adding variety to their visit. The on-site produce store and cafe are famous for their fresh apple cider donuts.
Westward Orchards’ picturesque setting provides an excellent backdrop for fall photos. Also, the orchard occasionally hosts events, making it a perfect spot for a seasonal outing.
For more details, visit westwardorchards.com or call (978) 456-8363. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore and enjoy the variety of delights at this charming orchard.
8. Parlee Farms
Parlee Farms, situated at 95 Farwell Rd, Tyngsborough, MA, is a family-friendly orchard with a 4.5-star rating from 1,126 reviews.
Opening at 10 AM, visitors can pick a variety of apples, including Honeycrisp and Fuji. The farm offers activities like hayrides, animal petting, and a corn maze, ensuring fun for all ages.
Seasonal treats like cider donuts and fresh pies are available in their farmstand. Ideal for fall photo ops, Parlee Farms provides an enchanting backdrop with its vibrant foliage.
For more information, call (978) 649-3854 or visit parleefarms.com. Other notable mentions include Belkin Family Lookout Farm in Natick, which boasts a wide array of apple varieties and unique attractions like a children’s play area and train rides.
9. Drew Farm
Situated at 31 Tadmuck Rd, Westford, MA, Drew Farm earns a 4.5-star rating from 139 reviews. Opening at 10 AM, this farm offers a classic apple-picking experience in a picturesque setting. Visitors can select from various apple types and enjoy fresh cider donuts.
Conveniently located, Drew Farm features scenic views and friendly staff, enhancing the visit. The farm’s website, drewfarm.com, provides further details and updates on seasonal activities. For more information, call (978) 807-0719.
This charming spot combines the joy of apple picking with the tranquil beauty of New England in fall, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
10. Connors Farm
Connors Farm, located at 30 Valley Rd, Danvers, MA, boasts a 4.3-star rating from 1,131 reviews. Opening at 8 AM, it’s a perfect spot for early birds.
Visitors can enjoy apple picking along with activities like navigating the corn maze, taking hayrides, and visiting the petting zoo.
The farm also offers delicious cider donuts and a country store filled with local products. The picturesque setting provides an excellent backdrop for fall photos.
For more information, call (978) 777-1245 or visit their website at connorsfarm.com. Be sure to check their event calendar for seasonal activities and festivals.
Whether you’re planning a family outing or a romantic date, Connors Farm delivers a delightful autumn experience.
11. Russell Orchards
Russell Orchards, located at 147 Argilla Rd, Ipswich, MA, is a must-visit for apple picking near MetroWest Boston.
This beloved fruit farm boasts a 4.5-star rating from 419 reviews and opens at 9 AM. Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own berries and apples, making it an ideal spot for a fun-filled family day out.
The orchard also features a winery and bakery that offer fruit-inspired goods, including homemade pies and cider donuts.
With picturesque surroundings and a variety of fruit, it provides excellent opportunities for fall photos. For more details, call (978) 356-5366 or visit russellorchards.com.
12. Tougas Family Farm
Tougas Family Farm, located at 234 Ball St, Northborough, MA, is a top destination for apple picking in MetroWest Boston.
With a 4.6-star rating from 1,996 reviews, this family-friendly farm opens at 9 AM. Visitors can pick a variety of apples, including Honeycrisp, Macoun, and Cortland.
The farm also features a produce store and a café known for its fresh cider, donuts, and juices. For more details, visit tougasfamilyfarm.com or call (508) 393-6406.
This farm is perfect for capturing picturesque fall moments, making it a must-visit for apple enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family to these orchards?
Absolutely! Many of the orchards featured, such as Shelburne Farm and Honey Pot Hill Orchards, are family-friendly and offer various activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos.
What kind of activities, besides apple picking, can we enjoy at these orchards?
In addition to apple picking, many orchards offer hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, petting zoos, and fresh cider donuts. Some also have on-site stores selling local products and homemade treats.
Are there any orchards that open early in the morning?
Yes, Connors Farm opens as early as 8 AM, making it a great option for early risers who want to start their fall adventure sooner.
Where can I find fresh cider donuts?
Several orchards like Shelburne Farm, Carver Hill Orchard, and Westward Orchards are known for their delicious fresh cider donuts, which are a must-try during your visit.
Are these orchards suitable for couples looking for a romantic outing?
Yes, many orchards such as Doe Orchards and Russell Orchards provide picturesque settings perfect for a romantic fall outing, complete with scenic photo opportunities amidst vibrant foliage.
Can I get information about specific orchards online?
Yes, most of the featured orchards have websites where you can find more details and updates. For example, Shelburne Farm’s website is shelburnefarm.com, and Allandale Farm’s website is allandalefarm.com.
Are there any orchards that combine fruit picking with other fresh produce?
Carver Hill Orchard offers a variety of apples and tomatoes for picking, making it a versatile choice for those looking to fill their baskets with more than just apples.
Conclusion
These 12 apple-picking spots in MetroWest Boston offer diverse experiences, suited to every preference. From Shelburne Farm’s scenic hayrides to Honey Pot Hill’s challenging mazes, there’s something for everyone.
Allandale Farm in Chestnut Hill provides a leisurely start, while Doe Orchards epitomizes classic New England charm. Carver Hill and Carlson Orchards are perfect for fresh produce lovers.
Drew Farm and Connors Farm cater to families with their engaging activities. Russell Orchards and Westward Orchards combine fruit picking with picturesque photo opps.
Finally, Parlee Farms and Tougas Family Farm ensure a memorable day with their variety of apples and delightful treats. Visitors can relish these experiences and capture fall’s enchanting essence.
Naim Benmayor