Best Apple Orchards Near the Twin Cities to Visit This Fall

Few things say “Minnesota fall” quite like a trip to an apple orchard. Crisp autumn air, colorful leaves, fresh-picked apples, warm cider, homemade donuts, corn mazes, hayrides, and pumpkin patches make apple orchards one of the most beloved family traditions of the season.

Whether you’re introducing your little ones to their first orchard or continuing an annual tradition with teens who still secretly love fresh apple cider and caramel apples, the Twin Cities area offers dozens of incredible destinations within an easy drive.

Here’s our guide to some of the best apple orchards near Minneapolis and St. Paul that are perfect for making unforgettable fall memories.

1. Aamodt’s Apple Farm

Location: Stillwater

Nestled in the beautiful St. Croix Valley, Aamodt’s Apple Farm has been a Minnesota favorite for generations.

Families can enjoy:

Pick-your-own apples (seasonal)
Fresh apple cider
Bakery treats
Apple slushes
Caramel apples
Beautiful fall scenery

It’s also located next to the popular Saint Croix Vineyards, making it a wonderful stop for families with older kids while parents enjoy a local tasting.

Best For: Families, couples, and photographers

2. Pine Tree Apple Orchard

Location: White Bear Lake

One of the closest orchards to the Twin Cities, Pine Tree Apple Orchard is famous for its incredible bakery.

Don’t miss:

Fresh apple pies
Apple cider donuts
Caramel apples
Honey
Fresh apples
Gift shop
Scenic orchard views

Many families make this an annual tradition simply for the baked goods.

Best For: Families with young children

3. Pleasant Valley Orchard

Location: Shafer

Located near Taylors Falls, Pleasant Valley Orchard combines beautiful scenery with plenty of family fun.

Activities include:

Pick-your-own apples
Corn maze
Hayrides
Pumpkin patch
Farm animals
Bakery

This orchard is ideal if you’re planning a full fall day trip.

4. Minnesota Harvest Apple Orchard

Location: Jordan

This orchard is packed with family activities throughout the fall season.

Expect to find:

Apple picking
Corn maze
Hayrides
Pumpkin patch
Petting zoo
Giant jumping pillow
Farm playground
Live entertainment on select weekends

Older kids and teens especially enjoy the corn maze and outdoor games.

5. Apple Jack Orchards

Location: Delano

Apple Jack Orchards has become one of the most popular fall destinations west of the Twin Cities.

Highlights include:

Fresh apples
Bakery
Apple cider donuts
Wagon rides
Corn maze
Pumpkin patch
Children’s play areas
Weekend activities

Their warm donuts are worth the trip alone.

6. Fall Harvest Orchard

Location: Montrose

This family-owned orchard offers a quieter experience while still providing plenty of fall charm.

Families enjoy:

Apple picking
Bakery
Apple cider
Pumpkin patch
Farm market
Scenic countryside

Perfect for families looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.

7. Whistling Well Farm

Location: Hastings

If your family loves trying different apple varieties, Whistling Well Farm is a fantastic choice.

Known for growing dozens of apple varieties, the orchard also offers:

Fresh cider
Local honey
Jams
Bakery treats
Beautiful views of the Mississippi River Valley

8. Minnetonka Orchards

Location: Minnetrista

Minnetonka Orchards is one of the largest and most family-friendly apple orchards in the Twin Cities area. It’s easy to spend an entire day here thanks to the wide variety of activities, delicious food, and beautiful countryside views.

Families can enjoy:

Pick-your-own apples (when available)
Pumpkin patch
Corn maze
Hayrides
Farm animals
Sunflower fields (seasonal)
Apple cannons
Jumping pillows
Bakery treats
Fresh apple cider
Hard cider for adults
Live music and seasonal weekend events

Whether your kids want to race through the corn maze, feed the goats, or sip fresh apple cider while enjoying the fall colors, there’s something for every age.

Best For: Families with kids of all ages, teens, and full-day fall adventures.

9. Deardorff Orchards

Location: Waconia

This hidden gem offers:

Fresh apples
Apple cider
Pumpkins
Bakery items
Family-friendly atmosphere

Its smaller crowds make it a great option for families looking to avoid the busiest orchards.

10. Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest

Location: Jordan

Another wonderful destination south of the Twin Cities, Ferguson’s offers:

Apple picking
Pumpkin patch
Corn maze
Farm market
Family activities
Seasonal events

There’s plenty to keep children entertained for several hours.

What Apples Are in Season?

One of the fun parts of visiting multiple orchards is trying different apple varieties throughout the season.

Late August

Paula Red
Zestar!

September

Honeycrisp
SweeTango
Wealthy
First Kiss®

Late September into October

Haralson
Fireside
Sweet Sixteen
Regent
Honeygold

Many orchards post daily picking updates on their websites and social media pages, so check before visiting if you’re hoping to pick a specific variety.

Don’t Leave Without Trying…

No orchard visit is complete without a few Minnesota fall favorites.

Be sure to sample:

Fresh apple cider
Apple cider donuts
Homemade pie
Caramel apples
Apple crisp
Apple slushies
Fresh-baked cookies
Local honey

Many visitors leave with bags full of apples—and boxes of baked goods!

Tips for Visiting with Kids

Go Early

Weekends become extremely busy during September and October.

Morning visits often mean smaller crowds and cooler temperatures.

Dress in Layers

Minnesota fall weather changes quickly.

A cool morning may become a warm afternoon, so layers are always a good idea.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You’ll likely walk through orchards, gravel paths, grassy fields, and farm attractions.

Comfortable shoes make a huge difference.

Bring a Wagon

If you have younger children, a wagon can help transport little ones, pumpkins, and bags of apples.

Bring Your Camera

Apple orchards offer some of the most beautiful family photo opportunities of the year.

Between colorful trees, pumpkin displays, red barns, and rows of apple trees, you’ll find countless Instagram-worthy backdrops.

Make It a Full-Day Adventure

Many of these orchards are located near charming Minnesota towns, making it easy to extend your trip.

After visiting the orchard, consider stopping for:

Ice cream
Local shopping
Hiking
Scenic overlooks
River walks
Historic downtown districts

A simple apple-picking trip can easily become one of your family’s favorite fall traditions.

Visiting an apple orchard is one of the simplest—and most memorable—ways to celebrate autumn in Minnesota. Whether you’re sipping fresh apple cider, picking Honeycrisp apples straight from the tree, getting lost in a corn maze, or enjoying warm cider donuts fresh from the bakery, these experiences create traditions that families cherish for years.

From Stillwater and White Bear Lake to Jordan, Delano, and Hastings, the Twin Cities are surrounded by incredible orchards that offer something for every age. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, school-age kids, or teens who still can’t resist a warm donut, there’s an orchard waiting to welcome your family this fall.

So grab your favorite flannel, pack the camera, and plan a day filled with crisp air, colorful leaves, delicious apples, and unforgettable Minnesota memories.