Fall is quickly approaching and as much as we want summer here forever, fall in Chicago is also really great. The weather is seriously the best, not too hot or too cold! It’s that time of the year to hit an apple orchard or two!

Here is a list of some we have been to in the past and plan on going to this year!

Cranes U-Pick- Fennville, MI

Located right outside Saugatuck (check my family Saugatuck post for more!), this might be one of our favorites. First, it’s huge! There’s so much to do, you could spend all day here. Bakery on site, corn maze, hay rides, games for the kids, general store and obviously, apple picking. This is one of the further apple orchards, so this might be more of a weekend thing. But we love the area and there’s a lot to do with families and for the adults.

 

Kuipers Family Farm- Maple Park, IL 

I feel this is probably one of the more popular apple orchards in the Chicagoland area and I find it gets really, really crowded! It’s very nicely laid out and there is a lot to do, but I would recommend going during off peak times!

Johnson’s Produce Farm

Ok this is NOT an apple orchard, BUT, they have so many other fruit and vegetables. We went the summer after Covid lockdown to get some fresh air and LOVED it! The kids were able to pick some many blueberries and other fruits and vegetables. There’s a cute market and kids playground on the grounds. They also have a pretty active IG to stay updated on all their events they have throughout the fall!

 

Countyline Orchard- Hobart, IN

I have been going to Countyline Orchard for years now! I used to take my students when I was a teacher every year. They have some of the best cider donuts! It’s not super big and does get really crowded. We really like it because it’s not too far from the city. My suggestion would be to go super early and even on an off day.

Jonomac- Malta, IL

About an hour or so outside of the city, this is a pretty big apple orchard and farm! They even had wine tastings last time we were there! It’s not far from St. Charles so you can make a day out of it and stop by for dinner in downtown St.Charles on your way out.

All Seasons Orchard- Woodstock, IL

Another pretty large farm that does get fairly crowded on the weekends, but so fun for the kids! They have lots of family friendly activities, even having a magician last time we were there! I would recommend going early and during off peak times.

Garwood Orchards- La Porte, IN 

I actually haven’t been to this one, but it is FIRST on our list this fall. A friend told me about it and raves about it. The reviews all look great too! It’s been around since 1831, so they must somewhat know what they are doing :).

Apple Holler- Sturtevant, WI 

This orchard is also an event space, full restaurant and even have peaches and other fruit to pick in addition to just apples. It’s not too far from the Mar’s Cheese Castle so get your apples and cheese all in one day 🙂

Royal Oaks- Harvard, IL

This one is a bit smaller, but has a restaurant with the best pot pie! They have a really fun fall fest with a corn maze, games, etc.

Hopefully this list is helpful and you will find a new-to-you apple orchard this fall! If you need any other ideas this fall, check out the fall bucketlist here!

Christine