Crisp air, changing leaves, and warm cider donuts can only mean one thing: apple-picking season is here. Luckily, New Yorkers don't have to travel far to experience one of fall's most beloved traditions. From the Hudson Valley to Long Island, these orchards offer scenic views, seasonal treats, and plenty of fresh-picked fruit.
Fishkill Farms, Hopewell Junction, NY
A favorite among city dwellers, Fishkill Farms offers the quintessential Hudson Valley fall experience. The family-owned farm is known for its sprawling orchards, mountain views, and pick-your-own apples, along with an on-site cider bar where visitors can unwind after a day in the fields. For those without a car, take Metro-North to Beacon and grab a short rideshare to the farm.
Pennings Orchard & Cidery, Warwick, NY
Apple picking is only part of the appeal at Pennings Orchard & Cidery. After filling your bag, stay for hard cider, wood-fired pizza, and farm-fresh baked goods. The laid-back atmosphere and beautiful countryside setting make it one of the most popular fall day trips from NYC. While it's possible to reach Warwick via public transportation, visitors will likely need to combine a bus or train journey with a taxi or rideshare to reach the orchard.
Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard, North Salem, NY
For a full autumn experience, Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard delivers. Visitors can pick apples, sip fresh cider, and enjoy hayrides, live music, and seasonal festivities. Just about an hour from Manhattan, it's an easy escape that feels worlds away from the city. Travelers can take Metro-North's Harlem Line to nearby Croton Falls and complete the trip with a short taxi or rideshare.
Apple Ridge Orchards, Warwick, NY
Families will find plenty to love at Apple Ridge Orchards. Beyond apple picking, the orchard features farm animals, hayrides, and local honey, creating the kind of wholesome fall outing that keeps visitors coming back year after year. Like other Warwick-area orchards, it's best accessed by car, though public transportation plus a short rideshare can work with some advance planning.
Outhouse Orchards, North Salem, NY
A longtime favorite in Westchester County, Outhouse Orchards offers everything you'd want from a classic fall farm. Apple picking, corn mazes, homemade pies, and fresh cider combine to create a charming autumn adventure close to the city. It's also one of the easiest orchards to reach from NYC, with Metro-North service to nearby stations and a quick rideshare to the farm.
Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm, Yorktown Heights, NY
Operating for more than a century, Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm pairs traditional apple picking with one of the region's best farm bakeries. Don't leave without trying one of its famous pies or a warm cider donut fresh from the oven. Visitors can take Metro-North to nearby Westchester stations and finish the journey with a short taxi or rideshare.
Harbes Orchard, Riverhead, NY
If you're heading out to Long Island, Harbes Orchard offers a fun-filled fall experience complete with apple picking, farm attractions, and seasonal events. It's a great option for anyone looking to turn a day trip into a full autumn adventure. Take the Long Island Railroad to Riverhead, then use a taxi or rideshare to reach the orchard.
Before you go, check each orchard's website for reservation requirements and current picking conditions. Then grab your favorite sweater, hit the road, and enjoy one of the sweetest traditions of the season.
Need a recipe for all those apples? Check out our apple galette recipe here.
Written by Sabrina Rollings