Autumn is finally here, and there’s a host of different activities that are perfect for the changing of tree colors. One of the most popular activities in fall is apple picking because it’s fun for the whole family, and there are often other events happening at apple orchards in the autumn months.
Maryland is the perfect place for visiting an apple orchard because there are so many farms to choose from, and a few hold festivals in the fall. However, there are a few orchards in Maryland that you should prioritize visiting, due to their high reviews and unique events. Here are the three best farms for apple picking in Maryland, and their autumn events.
Butler’s Orchard
Located in Montgomery County, Butler’s Orchard has been an important staple in Maryland for decades, and they host a variety of events every year. Between September 21st and November 3rd, they will be hosting their 44th Annual Pumpkin Festival. This event is exciting for children and adults alike who wish to celebrate the spooky season.
During the fall season, you can pick Crimson Crisp apples at Butler’s Orchard on the weekends. You can make a reservation after Thursday at 5 pm prior to the weekend you’d like to pick apples. A 7 lb bag of apples costs $17, while a 12 lb bag is $28.
You can also pick other fruits throughout the year at Butler’s Orchard, such as strawberries and blueberries. If you’d like to visit Butler’s Orchard for a day of farming fun, then you can travel to 22222 Davis Mill Rd, Germantown, MD 20876.
Homestead Farm
Homestead Farm is located in Montgomery County and hosts apple picking every day between 9 am to 5 pm during autumn. You can pick an array of delicious apples, including Crimson Crisp, Fuji, and Jonagold. The fee is $2.19 per lb of apples, as opposed to selling you specific bag sizes like most apple orchards.
Although Homestead Farm doesn’t have as many activities as other orchards, it’s a great location for picking Fuji and Jonagold apples. The address for Homestead Farm is 15604 Sugarland Road, Poolesville, MD 20837.
Gaver Farm
Gaver Farm is worth a visit because it’s hosting its Annual Fall Fun Fest event between August 30th and November 5th. The festival includes dozens of exciting activities for kids. Children can swing from a zipline, race down giant slides, and eat delectable apple donuts. Once you’re finished enjoying the festival, you can take a hay ride to the orchard.
Apple picking should be on your itinerary if you visit Gaver Farm. During the 2024 fall season, you can pick five types of apples, including Crimson Crisp, Empire, Buckeye, Blondie, and Ultra Gold. Picking hours are 12 pm to 6 pm if you visit on a Friday or 10 am to 6 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
You can choose between buying two bag sizes when entering the apple orchard at Gaver Farm. A peck of apples will cost you $25 and half bushel bags are available for $40. Gaver Farm has a strict no-eating policy while you’re picking apples, so be careful to adhere to this rule.
If you’re looking for an apple orchard with a high level of variety, then Gaver Farms is one of the best farms in Maryland to pick apples. You’ll find this orchard at 5501 Detrick Rd, Mt Airy, MD 21771.
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