These last few months have been challenging for everyone and now that the weather is getting colder, the options for fun things to do outdoors have been limited.
So much uncertainty has been around picking your own produce this summer, and I am very happy apple picking was not completely scratched from the list, because it is one of my family’s favourite things to do.
Spend quality family time outdoors, soaking in some sun and fresh country air while enjoying the most beautiful scenery as the season changes. You will even support local family business while savouring delicious apples.
Whether you want to enjoy it with your kids or fur babies, we’ve got you covered.
225 Howell Rd, Saint George
This farm is very well known by dog owners of the region for providing a dog-friendly backdrop for the most beautiful fall pictures of your fur baby.
It’s open every day until the end of October and has great COVID-19 measures in place.
Brantview Farms doesn’t just have delicious apples, they also have apple cider, and a bakery with apple pies, butter tarts, apple crisp and apple cider donuts for the win.
9528 Regional Rd 25, Milton
It’s a bit of a drive to this farm but it’s worth a visit because it’s one of the most complete farms around, with so much to do. This year picking your own apples will look different, which means not bringing your own bags, and buying tickets in advance. On Chudleigh’s website, you can even check when your favourite apples are ready to be picked up. You can choose from the more than 22 varieties they grow. Bring your inner child along because the playground here is guaranteed fun for all ages.
235 Howell Rd, Saint George
Get lost in the rows of apple trees at Orchard Home Farm. If you are looking to solely pick your own apples and pears without the huge crowds the other orchards are getting, this is the farm for you. It’s a simpler farm making it super easy to just pick up the apples available, and check out at the exit — a little market with local products.
1668 ON-6, Hamilton
Bring your furry friends along to this pet-friendly orchard for anyone looking to have a fun day outside with the puppers. Although this family-owned farm is only open from Thursday to Monday, they offer a slew of activities to try: wagon rides, a hay barn with ponies, a corn maze and trails to get lost in. Some restrictions apply, so give their website a look before you visit The Apple Orchard.
MAPLE CRISP ORCHARDS (no website)
1888 Listowel Road, Elmira
If you’re looking to get some crisp local deliciousness without getting dirty in the muddy orchards, considering a local family market might be the best choice. This smaller, eight-acre orchard has a cute little market with maple syrup products and everything apple-related.
1420 Lobsinger Line, Waterloo
You can’t get any more local than Martin’s apples. This award-winning family orchard has been in the Martin family since planting the first trees back in 1820, and has over 20 varieties of apples growing today. Known for their crispy apple chips, their beautifully renovated market shop near St.Jacobs is filled with canned goods, maple syrup and other seasonal produce.
1235 Martin Creek Rd, Waterloo
Here you can find already picked apples in their family store, along with other local produce of seasonal vegetables, fresh chicken and duck eggs and maple products.
251 Powerline Rd, Brantford
Last but not least, if you haven’t made apple picking a tradition already, Brantwood Farms will make you want to. Founded over 100 years ago in 1905, this expansive acreage has many choices of apples varieties. It has everything needed to make your day with the family memorable with plenty of stuff for the kids: tractor rides, train rides, a jungle gym, corn maze and more! Bring your dogs, and enjoy the friendly staff and beautiful settings to take those cute fall pictures.
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