Fall in Connecticut brings one thing everyone seems to agree on: apple picking season is the best time to get outside. From family farms that have been growing fruit for generations to orchards with sweeping hilltop views, the state is packed with places where you can fill a bag with crisp apples and grab a warm cider donut on the way out.
Some of these spots add hayrides, farm stores, and pumpkin patches to make a full day of it. Others keep things simple and let the fruit do the talking.
Whether you live nearby or you are planning a weekend road trip, these seven orchards give you a real reason to pack the car and head into the countryside. Here are the picks worth putting on your fall map this year.
1. Lyman Orchards, Middlefield
Few Connecticut farms carry the history that Lyman Orchards does. It has been run by the Lyman family since 1741, which makes it one of the oldest family businesses in the entire country.
The orchard grows apples, peaches, pears, and plums across its property, so pick-your-own season stretches through much of the year. In fall, apples take center stage with several varieties available for picking.
Beyond the fruit, Lyman is known for The Apple Barrel farm market, where you can grab baked goods, local products, and their popular pies. The famous corn maze also draws big crowds each autumn with a new design every year.
Golfers can even work in a round at the on-site golf courses. It is one of those places where you can easily lose a whole afternoon without meaning to.
2. Bishop’s Orchards, Guilford
Family roots run deep along the shoreline at Bishop’s Orchards, which has been operated by the Bishop family since 1871. Six generations later, it remains a go-to fall destination in Guilford.
The pick-your-own season here covers a wide range of fruit, including apples, pears, and pumpkins depending on the time of year. Their large farm market is a highlight all on its own.
Inside, you will find fresh produce, a bakery, and prepared foods that make it easy to grab lunch or dessert. The cider donuts and pies are a common reason people stop in.
Being close to the coast, it is an easy add-on if you are already exploring the shoreline towns. That location makes it one of the more convenient orchards for a quick weekend trip.
3. Blue Jay Orchards, Bethel
Down in Fairfield County, Blue Jay Orchards has grown into one of the largest apple orchards in the region. The Bethel farm spreads across hundreds of acres of rolling land.
Visitors come for pick-your-own apples in the fall, with a wide selection of varieties across the property. Hayrides out to the orchard rows are part of the classic experience here.
The farm market stocks cider, baked goods, and seasonal treats, and the cider donuts are a big draw. Pumpkins are also available when autumn arrives.
Because it sits in the southwestern corner of the state, it is an easy reach for folks coming from the New York area. That makes Blue Jay a popular first stop for people crossing into Connecticut for a fall day.
4. Rogers Orchards, Southington
Talk about staying power. Rogers Orchards has been in the same family since the 1700s, making it one of the oldest continuously operating orchards in Connecticut.
The Southington farm operates two farm stands, Home Farm and Sunnymount, where you can find their well-known pies and baked goods. Apples are the star, and the family grows an impressive number of varieties.
Pick-your-own apples are available in season, giving visitors the chance to walk the rows and choose their own. The pies here have earned a loyal following over the years.
If you appreciate a place with real history behind it, this is a strong pick. The combination of heritage and quality fruit keeps people coming back season after season.
5. March Farms, Bethlehem
Families with young kids tend to gravitate toward March Farms in Bethlehem for good reason. The farm packs plenty of activities alongside the fruit.
Pick-your-own options change with the season, including apples and other produce grown on the property. The setting in the Litchfield Hills adds scenic countryside views to the visit.
Kids can enjoy the play areas and animals, which turns a simple apple run into a full outing. Hayrides and seasonal fun round out the fall experience.
The farm store offers baked goods and local products to take home. For parents looking to keep everyone entertained, this stop hits the mark without feeling overwhelming.
6. Belltown Hill Orchards, South Glastonbury
South Glastonbury sits in some of the best fruit-growing land in the state, and Belltown Hill Orchards makes the most of it. The area is well known for its farms and orchards.
Belltown Hill grows a variety of fruit including apples, peaches, and cherries, so there is something to pick across the warmer months. Fall brings the apple harvest into full swing.
The bakery is a highlight, turning out pies, breads, and other treats that pair well with a bag of fresh apples. Their baked goods have built a strong reputation locally.
The hillside location gives visitors nice views while they pick. It is a rewarding stop for anyone touring the Glastonbury farm belt.
7. Scott’s Orchard and Nursery, Glastonbury
Rounding out the Glastonbury area is Scott’s Orchard and Nursery, a family-run spot that blends an orchard with a nursery and farm stand. It has served the community for decades.
Apples take the spotlight in fall, with pick-your-own available and plenty of varieties to choose from. Pumpkins and other seasonal produce are part of the mix too.
The farm store sells cider, cider donuts, and baked goods that make a visit worth the trip alone. Fresh cider is a signature item here.
Because it is close to Belltown Hill, you can pair the two for a full day of orchard hopping in South Glastonbury. That combination makes this corner of the state a favorite for fall visitors.
Enjoyed this story?
Add Fast Food Club as a preferred source to see more of our reporting on Google.