It is that time of the year again…apple picking season! This activity is fun for the whole family and makes for a wonderful day trip. There is absolutely nothing better than picking fresh apples and sipping on some hot cider while taking in the changing season. Read on below for some orchards that are just a train ride away! And let’s not forget to mention that most of these locations offer so much more than apples! Think hayrides, delicious baked goods, live music, the list goes on…enjoy!
Apple Picking in NY without a car:
Outhouse Orchards:
This family run orchard dates back to the 1800’s. It’s pick your own season is in full swing now. There is much more than apples though—seasonal offerings include hayrides and an awesome corn maze.
You must make reservations ahead of time. There is even pre-pay option where you can get $30.00 (15 lbs) for a small bag of apples or $45 for a large bag (25 lbs).
How to get there: Metro-North to the Croton Falls station and take a cab to the farm.
Masker’s Orchard
Just a quick trip out of NYC and you are at this idyllic 200 acre orchard. The orchard is surrounded by breathtaking views of the entire Hudson River Valley. Apple season runs through November, so head there now for peak picking! Be sure to stop in their cute country store on your way home to load up on all the Hudson Valley goodies!
Admission, parking, and bags are free. Apples are $33.95 per half bushel. And best of all you can eat all the apples you wish while visiting–no charge!
How to get there: New Jersey Transit’s #196 or #197 bus from Port Authority to Willowbrook Station (town of Warwick). The orchard is 1/2 mile away (can walk or take a taxi)
Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard:
This adorable farm’s apple season runs from September to late October. Enjoy a wonderful day in the country while enjoying panoramic views of the Hudson Valley. Hot apple cider, apple cider donuts, and farm-pressed cider await you here. Bonus, pumpkin picking starts on 9/17.
Be sure to book a reservation ahead of time. Apple picking is weekends only. Tickets are $12. Bags are not included in general admission ticket. Apple pricing ranges from ¼ peck (4 lbs) of apples for $15 to a ½ bushel (25 lbs) for $40. Tickets are not refundable.
How to get there: Metro-North to the Croton Falls station, and then grab a cab.
Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm:
No advance reservations needed at this cute farm that also boasts Christmas Trees and pumpkins–covering all your seasonal needs! There is even a corn-maze, so tons of fun to be had here.
Open Wednesday-Friday; there is no parking/admission/entrance fee, just a minimum required to buy if entering the orchard.
How to get there: Metro-North to the Croton-Harmon or Peekskill stations, and then grab a cab.
Dr. Davies Farm:
This farm located in Congers boasts over 4,000 trees on 55 acres! They have two dozen apple varieties to pick from. Four legged friends are also welcome here. Bonus: upon arrival this farm might look familiar to you as it has been used in multiple film shoots! Get your shot for the ‘gram here for sure!
Walk-ins are welcome, but it is recommended to reserve a spot. Cash or check only accepted at the farm.
How to get there: From Penn Station take NJ Transit to Secaucus, transfer to the Pascack Valley Line to Nanuet.
Fishkill Farms:
This 270 acre apple orchard is an institution! In addition to apples, pears, blackberries, and flowers can be found here as well. You can book a cider tasting which includes a reserved picnic table, a flight of 4 ciders, and a charcuterie plate. Their farm store is epic!
By reservation only; reservation includes admission for up to 5 people. Be sure to check out their calendar for the amazing Fall Festival line up. Live music and lots of fun.
How to get there: From Grand Central Station, take the Hudson Line towards Poughkeepsie; exit at Beacon and take a cab.
Apple Picking in NJ without a car:
Alstede Farms:
Located in beautiful Morris County, NJ this farm has it all. Bonus: a Cider mill, ice cream, hayrides, and wine are some of other offerings.
You must purchase advance tickets to visit the farm. Ticket pricing includes a specific picking container. Pricing ranges from $21.99 for one ticket $82.99 for a family pass.
How to get there: New Jersey Transit from Penn Station to the Gladstone station; complimentary shuttle available on weekends from train station to the farm–round trip. Easy peasy!
Terhune Orchards:
Known for their legendary Fall Family Weekends this orchard does not disappoint. Spread across 250 acres, complete with a petting zoo and an amazing farm store this spot will please everyone. Refer to their website for specific happenings on the weekends which include live music and amazing food options.
No admission ticket needed to pick apples; must pre-purchase for family fun weekends; tickets start at $12.
How to get there: Take NJ Transit to Princeton Junction; then take a cab to the farm.
More…
If you have time check out some of these other orchards that are accessible by car.
New York:
Apple Ridge Orchards
Located in Warwick, this orchard offers “Spookley” movie nights, animal meet and greets, and a honey bee observation hive.
1 hour and 50 mins outside NY
Barton Orchards
In addition to the orchards, there is an on-site restaurant, an aerial adventure park, and a Tap Room which features local craft beer.
1 hour and 40 mins from NYC
Greig Farm
This cute farm in Red Hook (not the Brooklyn one!) has cute goats and an art gallery as well as hiking trails!
2 hours and 10 minutes from NYC
Hank’s Pumpkintown
This Hamptons institution has more than just pumpkins! With 30 acres of attractions that include hayrides, a corn maze, and caramel apples who could ask for anything more. This place gets crowded so be sure to plan ahead.
2 hours and 20 minutes from NYC
New Jersey:
Demarest Farms
40 minutes from NYC
Riamede Farm
No bells and whistles here, all about the apples.
1 hour from NYC