North Carolina is home to a variety of beautiful apple orchards and farms that offer the perfect opportunity for enthusiasts and hobbyists to indulge in some apple-picking. Whether you are visiting the state or a resident looking to enjoy a delightful day trip, these charming locations provide a delightful experience for the entire family. Take a moment to discover some of the best apple-picking spots near Raleigh, NC.
Treat Yourself to a Delicious Day at Millstone Creek Orchards
If you’re looking for a delightful way to spend a crisp fall day, look no further than Millstone Creek Orchards in Ramseur, where you and your family are sure to have a memorable time picking apples just outside of Raleigh, NC. This charming, family-owned orchard features a variety of juicy apples, as well as fun fall activities for all ages.
Apple Picking Fun
Imagine strolling through the picturesque orchard, breathing in the crisp fall air as you peruse various trees laden with delectable apples. Millstone Creek Orchards provides the perfect setting for adventure and bonding with friends and family as you work together to pick plump, ripe apples from branches gently dancing in the breeze.
Hayride Excursions
Between baskets of apples, hop aboard one of Millstone Creek’s hayride wagons to experience the full beauty of the orchard. Pulled by a sturdy tractor, you’ll be guided through rows of trees with stunning foliage while learning about the history and cultivation of apples at Millstone Creek Orchards. It’s not only a moment of relaxation but also an educational experience perfect for young minds and curious souls.
Savor the Flavors of Fall
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to stop by the on-site cider mill. Here, you can indulge in refreshing apple cider or taste test a variety of homemade apple baked goods. From delightfully flaky apple pies to warm apple cider donuts, your taste buds will definitely thank you for this unforgettable experience.
More Than Just Apples
While apple picking is certainly the main draw, Millstone Creek Orchards prides itself on offering a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the season, from fishing in the on-site pond to visiting their pumpkin patch during pumpkin season. You’re sure to find plenty of fun and entertainment to fill your day at this gem of an orchard.
The next time you find yourself craving a taste of fall and a fun, family-friendly outing near Raleigh, NC, be sure to visit Millstone Creek Orchards for a day of apple picking and more.
Perry’s Berry’s & More: A Fruitful Experience
Nestled just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, Perry’s Berry’s & More offers a delightful and memorable apple picking experience for enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. With its welcoming atmosphere and abundant fruit offerings, this local gem in Apex makes for a perfect destination for a fun-filled family outing or a relaxing solo day trip.
Pick Your Own Apples (And More)
The star attraction at Perry’s Berry’s & More is undoubtedly their apple orchards, which boast an impressive variety of delicious apples waiting to be plucked fresh from the trees during apple season. While there, don’t forget to get acquainted with the other fruitful temptations at the farm. Depending on the time of your visit, you might also enjoy picking succulent strawberries, juicy blueberries, or luscious raspberries. Regardless of your favorite fruit, there’s plenty of tasty treasures to be found at Perry’s Berry’s & More.
Instagram-Worthy Scenery
Surrounded by stunning landscape and majestic trees, Perry’s Berry’s & More provides an idyllic setting for capturing beautiful photographs to commemorate your apple picking adventure. Whether you’re posing amongst the sun-dappled orchards or simply snapping a candid shot of your freshly-picked fruit haul, you’ll be sure to leave with some frame-worthy memories of your time spent picking at Perry’s Berry’s & More.
Family-Friendly Fun
With a strong community focus and a love for fostering agricultural appreciation, Perry’s Berry’s & More is dedicated to making your visit both enjoyable and educational. They offer tractor rides and guided tours that share interesting facts and tidbits about the farm’s history and cultivation methods. This is an excellent opportunity for kids and adults alike to learn about the incredible process that brings these tasty fruits from the fields to our tables.
Something Sweet to Savor
After a long day of picking apples and exploring the farm, treat yourself to some of the homemade goodies available at Perry’s Berry’s & More. From mouthwatering fruit pies and fragrant apple cider donuts to luscious berry jams and refreshing popsicles, these delectable delights will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Don’t forget to bring some of your favorite treats home with you to remind you of your visit, and to share with friends and family.
So, if you’re looking to indulge in the quintessential autumn activity of apple picking, or simply want to spend a charming day out on a scenic farm, look no further than Perry’s Berry’s & More in Apex. With its welcoming atmosphere, delicious fruit offerings, and picturesque surroundings, you’ll come for the apples but fall in love with everything else this delightful farm has to offer.
Justus Orchard
Justus Orchard: A Scenic Apple-Picking Destination
Located in the beautiful mountains of Hendersonville, Justus Orchard is worth the scenic drive from Raleigh. This family-owned farm is nestled amidst picturesque landscapes and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a day out in nature.
Upon arriving at Justus Orchard, you will be greeted by the friendly staff who are more than happy to guide you through the various apple varieties available for picking. Some of the popular varieties that you will come across here include Gala, Honeycrisp, and Golden Delicious. The farm ensures to keep its selection diverse and rotating, so you can expect to find different apples each time you visit.
As you stroll through the expansive orchard, plucking fresh apples right off the trees, you can’t help but appreciate the mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains. The rows upon rows of apple trees, set against the backdrop of the picturesque mountain range, make for an unforgettable experience.
A visit to Justus Orchard is not complete without a trip to their playground. The quaint and inviting space features swings, slides, and plenty of room for kids to run around, ensuring a fun-filled experience for the entire family.
Don’t Miss Their Apple Cider Donuts
While apple picking is the main attraction, Justus Orchard also offers plenty of other delicious treats for you to indulge in. One of their specialties is their mouth-watering apple cider donuts. Made fresh on-site, these donuts are the perfect combination of moist and crunchy, with just the right amount of cinnamon and sugar.
In addition to the donuts, you can also find homemade jams, jellies, and other delightful apple-based products. Be sure to stock up on your favorites before you leave to enjoy a little taste of Justus Orchard whenever you please.
All in all, a visit to Justus Orchard near Raleigh, NC is a fun and fulfilling experience for the entire family. It’s not just about picking apples; it’s about making lasting memories and appreciating the beauty of nature. So, pack up your picnic baskets, lace up your picking shoes, and get ready for a day of adventure and discovery at this charming apple haven.
Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery
Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery: A Perfect Fall Day Trip
If you’re looking to escape the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of fall, Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery in York, SC is the perfect destination for a day trip. Just a short drive from Raleigh, this family-owned and operated orchard offers a unique apple picking experience that’s sure to delight all your senses.
The Orchard
Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery boasts a wide variety of apple trees to choose from, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect apple for your taste and ideal pick for any apple-based dish you may have in mind. As you wander through the rows of trees, keep an eye out for their many heirloom varieties, from the classic tart Granny Smith to the sweet and aromatic Honeycrisp.
Cidery and Tastings
No visit to Windy Hill would be complete without a stop at their cidery. Windy Hill prides itself on crafting award-winning hard cider in the English tradition, using only the best apples from their orchard. As you enjoy a tasting flight, you’ll be able to sample ciders ranging from crisp, dry varieties to sweeter, fruit-infused options. For a true taste of fall, don’t miss out on their seasonal pumpkin spice cider.
Apple Goods and Treats
The delights of Windy Hill extend far beyond their refreshing ciders. Be sure to visit their country store, which offers a tempting array of apple products, perfect for taking home as a treat for yourself or a gift for others. Homemade apple cider donuts, fresh-pressed apple cider, apple butter, and apple pies are just a few of the mouth-watering treats you’ll find inside.
Family-Friendly Fun
Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery welcomes visitors of all ages. With hayrides, a charming pumpkin patch, and a farm animal petting zoo, the little ones are sure to have a blast while parents indulge in cider tastings. Visit during one of their special events, like their annual Fall Festival, for even more entertainment and activities, such as live music, craft vendors, and apple pressing demonstrations.
So, gather up your family and friends, and head to Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery for a memorable day of apple picking, cider tasting, and enjoying the beauty of the season. Your taste buds—and your Instagram feed—will be ever so grateful for this picturesque and delectable adventure..
Sky Top Orchard
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Apple-Picking Experience at Sky Top Orchard
There’s nothing quite like spending a crisp fall day at an orchard, and Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock, North Carolina is one of the not-to-be-missed spots on your apple-picking adventure. Just a few hours away from Raleigh, this picturesque orchard is more than just a destination for fruit enthusiasts – it’s an unforgettable experience that will leave you and your family with lasting memories for years to come.
A Bounty of Apple Varieties Awaits You
When you arrive at Sky Top Orchard, you’ll be greeted by row after row of apple trees, with over 20 varieties ready for you to pick and enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of tart Granny Smith, crisp Fuji, or sweet Gala apples, you’ll find a little something for everyone at this picturesque fruit haven.
Mountain Views and Serene Surroundings
As you wander through the orchard, you’ll be treated to the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing an awe-inspiring ambience that only Mother Nature can create. The altitude, climate, and fertile soil in this region make it perfect for apple growing, but they also provide a breathtaking setting to immerse yourself in as you spend your day plucking the perfect fruits from the branches.
Explore the Magical Bamboo Forest
Be sure to take some time to explore the impressive bamboo forest that occupies one corner of Sky Top Orchard. The soaring stalks and delicate rustle of the leaves in the breeze create a peaceful, otherworldly atmosphere that’s perfect for getting lost in your thoughts and soaking up the serenity of your surroundings.
Pack a Picnic and Enjoy the Scenic Ponds
After your hands are full of freshly-picked apples, head over to one of the charming picnic areas scattered throughout Sky Top Orchard. Nestled near serene ponds, these spots are ideal for taking a break, refuelling, and enjoying the fruits of your labor (pun intended). With a view this enchanting, you won’t be in a hurry to leave.
Next time you’re looking for a memorable day trip near Raleigh, set your sights on Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock, North Carolina. With its plethora of apple varieties, stunning mountain views, unique bamboo forest, and picturesque ponds, you’ll leave this one-of-a-kind fruit destination with a lasting impression and an abundant harvest of delicious apples.
Old Mill Farm
Old Mill Farm: A Local Gem for Apple Picking and Family Fun
Just a short drive away from Raleigh, in the lovely town of Durham, you’ll find Old Mill Farm – the ultimate destination for apple picking enthusiasts. Old Mill Farm not only offers a wide variety of delicious, seasonal apples ripe for the picking but also serves as a hub for family-friendly events and workshops that will keep both kids and adults entertained throughout the year.
Upon arrival at Old Mill Farm, you’ll be greeted by the welcoming staff, who can guide you to the picturesque orchards where you can spend quality time with your family handpicking the perfect apples to take home. The farm provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature while indulging in one of the tastiest fruits of the season.
Engaging Events for the Whole Family
While apple picking is a huge draw, Old Mill Farm truly shines when it comes to creating engaging events for the whole family. For instance, goat cuddling sessions have become an absolute hit among visitors. During these sessions, you can spend time playing with and petting adorable baby goats. The therapeutic and joyful experience will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
If you’re looking for more interactive activities, keep an eye out for the farm’s various hands-on workshops. These events provide you with the opportunity to dive into the world of farming and gardening. You can learn essential skills like planting, tending to crops, or even crafts that you can use at home. It’s an excellent opportunity for both kids and adults to explore new interests and learn something new.
Guided Tours and Sustainability
Old Mill Farm also offers guided tours where visitors can immerse themselves in the history and culture of the farm. You’ll be able to explore the stunning grounds while learning about the sustainable and eco-friendly practices that the farm employs. From the charming apple orchards to the quaint on-site cafe, a visit to the Old Mill Farm makes for a memorable day trip that will leave you feeling refreshed, educated, and likely eager to return.
Plan Your Visit Today!
Don’t miss out on experiencing everything that Old Mill Farm has to offer – plan your visit today and create lasting memories with your family!
Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill
A Day at Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill
Nestled just a couple hours outside of Raleigh in the quaint town of Morganton, you’ll find a hidden gem that’s been delighting apple enthusiasts for generations: Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill. Established in 1955, this family-owned and operated orchard has become a beloved institution for those seeking fresh, delicious apples, sweet ciders, and homemade jams and preserves.
Pick Your Own Apples
One of the many activities you can do at Apple Hill Orchard is apple picking! Stroll through the beautifully arranged rows of trees and find your favorite varieties like Fuji, Gala, and Golden Delicious. Grab a basket and carefully pick the ripest apples to ensure you’re getting the best fruit possible. Not only will you get some fresh air and exercise, but you’ll also have a fun and rewarding experience bonding with friends and family while harvesting delicious apples.
Taste the Sweetness of Cider
Don’t forget to stop by the Cider Mill to taste the delicious and fresh-pressed apple ciders that have earned Apple Hill a well-loved reputation. With multiple seasonal flavors to choose from, you’re sure to find a new favorite as you sip on the sweet nectar. Additionally, they offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options to accommodate everyone’s preferences.
Homemade Jams and Preserves
The fun doesn’t stop there! Be sure to browse their store, filled with an assortment of homemade jams, preserves, and other apple-based products. These perfect pantry staples, made from their very own apples, are sure to delight and excite your taste buds. Not to mention, they make great gifts for friends and family back home.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
What sets Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill apart from others is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. While it’s a popular spot for apple picking and cider tasting, the owners maintain a family-oriented touch that truly makes every visitor feel right at home. With friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and activities for all ages, Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill is the perfect destination to escape the city and experience the bounty of North Carolina’s apple harvest.
Conclusion
These orchards and farms near Raleigh, NC, provide an exceptional apple-picking experience that is sure to captivate and educate enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. From scenic mountain backdrops to quaint family-owned operations, each location offers its unique charm and atmosphere. So, pack a picnic, gather your loved ones, and set out for a day filled with fun, laughter, and the sweet taste of freshly picked apples!
