Best Places to Go Apple Picking This Fall

September is here, and while fall hasn’t officially begun, the apple orchards are already buzzing with activity. It's the perfect time to kick off the season with a visit to a local farm – before the crowds roll in and the leaves start to turn. Whether you're eager to pick your first apples of the year or just simply enjoy festive weekend activities, these local favorites offer a taste of fall fun a little early. Here are some of the best places to go apple picking and make the most of this transitional season!

Keller’s Farmstand – Oswego, IL 

Keller’s Farmstand in Oswego offers a vibrant lineup of seasonal family-friendly activities. Apple picking is now underway and continues through October, with "Apple Alerts" keeping visitors updated on when popular varieties are ripe. Throughout the summer and into fall, the farmstand is stocked with sweet corn, homemade jarred goods, salsas, and sauces. Starting September 6 and running every weekend through October 26, Keller’s hosts its annual Fall Festivities. This includes a sprawling 12-acre corn maze, pedal tractors, wagon rides, and interactive play areas like a chalk house and barnyard ball zone. Admission is available online for $13.95 or at the gate for $15.95. Click HERE to view their fall apple varieties. You can purchase your tickets HERE.

2500 Johnson Rd, Oswego, IL 60543

Windy Acres – Geneva, IL 

Celebrating over 40 years of family farming, Windy Acres in Geneva is a local favorite! As summer ends, the farm gears up for U-pick apple season, beginning August 23 on weekends from 10AM – 4PM, with fan-favorite varieties like Honeycrisp and Zestar. Their highly anticipated Fall Festival begins September 13 and runs through Halloween, offering live music, festive food, a beer garden, and countless attractions for both kids and adults. Tickets are $15.99, which includes 1/4 peck bag of apples + wagon ride* to the orchard (Children under 2 admitted free without picking bag). Plus, they have caramel apple decorating classes and pumpkin painting classes on the weekends. Come have fun down on the farm!

37w446 Fabyan Pkwy, Geneva, IL 60134

Bronkberry Farms & Greenhouse – Plainfield, IL

Experience the magic of fall at Bronkberry Farms! Pick your own apples and treat yourself to a delicious caramel apple. With beautiful mums, festive fall décor, and U-Pick apples, it’s the perfect autumn destination. Bronkberry Farms continues to be a local gem in Plainfield and apple picking kicks off in late August with delicious varieties like Zestar, Honeycrisp, Ruby Mac, and Gala. Admission is just $5 per person, plus the cost of your apple bag - starting at $10. Be sure to check their Facebook page for apple availability updates! Bronkberry Farms Facebook Page. With a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, Bronkberry remains a favorite for those seeking a low-key but charming fall experience.

18061 Bronk Rd, Plainfield, IL 60586

Woody’s Orchard & Fun Farm – Plano, IL

Looking for the perfect fall outing? Starting August 30, head to Woody’s Orchard for a day of fun with family and friends! Pick your own apples with over 20 varieties available, hop aboard the grain train for a scenic ride, and snap some picture-perfect moments along the way. From giant slides to the popular jumping pillow, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone smiling. Don’t forget to grab a cup of fresh apple cider and grab some of their famous apple cider donuts before you leave the orchard!

3223 Creek Rd, Plano, IL 60545

Kuipers Family Farm – Maple Park, IL

Kick off the season with a visit to Kuipers Family Farm, where apple picking runs from August 23 through November 2. If you are up for the drive, Kuipers is a must-visit that is packed with festive fall activities! Stroll through scenic orchards to pick your own apples, then explore the pumpkin patch, navigate the corn maze, take a relaxing hayride, and visit the friendly animals at the petting zoo. Be sure to try their fan-favorite apple cider slushies and fresh apple cider donuts. Apple picking is especially popular here, so plan ahead! Tickets are $15 and include a 1/4 peck bag for picking. With so much to do and see, Kuipers is a fall favorite you won’t want to miss!

To purchase tickets, click HERE.

1N318 Watson Rd, Maple Park, IL 60151

So grab a basket, mark your calendar, and make the most of this apple picking season. Fall is just around the corner – see you at the orchard!