Ah, autumn in Connecticut! The season of pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and the sweet crunch of a freshly picked apple.
If you find yourself in the Fairfield County, CT area during apple-picking season, you’re in for a treat. The region is brimming with delightful orchards that offer a variety of apple selections.
Whether you are interested in creating a perfect apple pie, a sweet apple crisp, or just enjoying the fruit on its own, here’s a guide to some of the best places where you can indulge in this classic fall activity in and around Fairfield County.
Apple Picking In and Near Fairfield County
1. Silverman’s Farm
451 Sport Hill Rd, Easton, CT 06612
Silverman’s Farm is a fall institution in Fairfield County, and perhaps the one cause of traffic all year in the otherwise sleepy town of Easton. Not only do they boast a variety of apple types (more than 20), but they also offer scenic views, killer cider donuts, a pumpkin patch, an on-site animal farm, and tractor rides.
Silverman’s is often packed on the weekends in September and October, so be prepared for a crowd.
2. Blue Jay Orchards
125 Plumtrees Rd, Bethel, CT 06801
This picturesque orchard is a family favorite. Spanning over 140 acres, Blue Jay Orchards promises a bountiful selection of apples and, after mid-September, a pumpkin patch, too. The farm shop also sells delicious pies, cider doughnuts, and honey made right from their beehives.
3. Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard
278 Leavenworth Rd, Shelton, CT 06484
At Beardsley’s, the apple-picking experience is complemented by their on-site cider mill. Once you’ve filled your basket with your favorite apple varieties, you can enjoy some of the freshest apple cider around. Don’t forget to try their renowned cider doughnuts!
4. Bishop’s Orchards
1355 Boston Post Rd, Guilford, CT 06437
A bit of a drive from Fairfield County, but definitely worth the visit. Bishop’s Orchards boasts a vast variety of apple types and a market filled with fresh produce, baked goods, and wines. Their apple cider and cider doughnuts are some of the best in Connecticut.
5. Lyman Orchards
Lyman Orchards, which has been in operation since the 1700s, is one of the largest Pick-Your-Own apple spots in Connecticut. It’s about an hour from lower Fairfield County, but there’s enough to see and do at Lyman Orchards that it’s easy to make your trek a day trip. In addition to the 27 varieties of apples available for picking, the farm offers its Apple Barrel Farm Market, pumpkin picking, a seasonal creamery, and a pub and grill on-site.
Tips for a Successful Apple Picking Trip:
Check Before You Go: Always check the orchard’s website or call ahead to ensure that they’re open for apple picking. Different apple varieties ripen at different times, so this will also give you an idea of what’s available.
Dress Appropriately: Remember, you’ll be on a farm. Wear comfortable shoes (preferably closed-toed) and bring along a hat or sunglasses. Some orchards can get muddy, so be prepared.
Storage: If you plan to pick a lot of apples, consider bringing storage boxes or containers to prevent them from bruising.
Follow Orchard Rules: Each orchard will have its guidelines about where to pick, how to pick, and any areas that are off-limits. Be respectful of the space and ensure you’re not damaging trees or fruit.