Expert Tip # 2 for Apple Picking in New England--With or Without Kids

Expert Tip #2: Make the Most of Time You Have

Peaceful row after row of apple trees
at Highland Farm, Holliston, MA

Sometimes it can seem like the weekend is already spoken for and it can be a challenge to work in your favorite fall activities. Don't stress about it and don't make yourself nuts trying to pack in a storybook day at the orchard if it's really not in the cards. 

Let's be honest, the more ambitious your apple picking plans are, the more time you will need--for travel, for the hot donuts, for the pumpkin patch, for the hayride--and that's all before you even pick your first apple!

If you’re short on time, seek out a local orchard so you can spend your time amongst the rows of fruit, not driving in your car. If you’re really only looking to pick apples—and only apples- select a straightforward orchard that is tailored just to fruit picking. In fact, consult one of our interactive state maps to identify an orchard set apart from the others--why? Less traffic! You won't find yourself bottlenecked with every other orchard-goer heading to the same apple region at the same time.

Find interactive orchard and fall attraction maps for Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

Tips for Apple Picking with Kids – Sometimes less is more. If your budget doesn’t allow for the pony rides, pumpkin picking, or an ice cream treat at the end, then stick to the still very fun, no- frills, apple-only orchards.

Looking for a guide to help you plan your apple picking this fall?

New England Fall Events has done all the research for and compiled guide, features, maps, and contact info for your local or vacation-area New England PYO apple orchards. 

Here are your quick links to the apple picking guides:

Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Rhode Island.

We've got you covered with Hayrides, Corn Mazes, Food Festivals, and Fall Events guides for every New England State! Visit New England Fall Events for a complete list of great fall events and family activities.