Apple picking is one of those New England traditions that never seems to get old. A crisp fall afternoon, a bag of just-picked apples, warm cider donuts and changing leaves are hard to beat. And fortunately, some of Massachusetts’ best orchards are right here north and west of Boston.
Whether you’re looking for a full day of family activities or a quieter, old-fashioned orchard experience, there’s something for everyone. From hayrides and farm animals to hard cider, live music and beautiful fall views, these ten local favorites are well worth a visit this season.
Parlee Farms – Tyngsborough
There’s plenty to make a day of at Parlee Farms. Pick your own apples, stop by Annie’s Animal Barns, then visit the farmstand or Mary’s Country Kitchen for cider donuts, apple crisp and other seasonal treats. The farm also hosts special events throughout the fall season.
Carlson Orchards – Harvard
Set on 100 acres in Harvard, Carlson Orchards grows a wide variety of apples for pick-your-own. After a trip through the orchard, adults can stop at the Cider Barn to sample orchard-made hard cider, making this a particularly good choice for a grown-up fall outing.
Drew Farm – Westford
Drew Farm offers a relaxed apple-picking experience on 32 scenic acres atop Providence Hill. The farm’s new barn is stocked with cider, cider donuts, baked goods and other local favorites, and live music and community events add to the atmosphere throughout the season.
Russell Orchards – Ipswich
Head toward the North Shore for apple picking at Russell Orchards, where the apple season typically runs from September into October. You can also visit the barnyard animals, browse the farm store or stop by the winery while you’re there.
Honey Pot Hill Orchards – Stow
Celebrating its 100th year in 2026, Honey Pot Hill is a longtime local favorite for apple picking and family fall outings. Along with pick-your-own apples, visitors can explore one of the farm’s three mazes, meet the farm animals or take a hayride through the orchard.
Brooksby Farm – Peabody
Apple picking is just the beginning at Brooksby Farm. Its fall activities include a play yard, barnyard animals, a Fairytale Trail, hayrides and a maze, with cider donuts, apple cider, pumpkins and plenty of other seasonal favorites available at the farm.
Autumn Hills Orchard – Groton
For a somewhat quieter orchard experience, head to Autumn Hills in Groton. Along with pick-your-own apples, the farm grows a wide selection of fruit, including many heirloom apple varieties, and its hilly setting makes it a lovely place to spend a fall afternoon.
Shelburne Farm – Stow
Shelburne Farm has plenty to keep younger visitors busy, including hayrides, farm animals and John Deere tractor and farm-equipment playgrounds. Adults can enjoy hard cider and craft beer, while everyone can stop for freshly made cider donuts and fruit from the orchard.
Boston Hill Farm – North Andover
This 12-generation family-owned farm offers apple picking along with a year-round farmstand, bakery and deli. Kids can visit the goats, chickens and rabbits, making it an easy choice for a relaxed family outing.
Doe Orchards – Harvard
If you prefer apple picking without quite as many bells and whistles, Doe Orchards is a great option. This traditional Harvard orchard keeps the focus on the fruit, with varieties including Honeycrisp, McIntosh, Cortland and Gala among those available during the 2026 season.
Apple varieties and picking conditions can change quickly throughout the season, so it’s always worth checking with the orchard before you head out.
Looking for more ways to enjoy fall locally? Ask our agents. From favorite farms and trails to restaurants, events and hidden gems, our team’s in-depth knowledge of the communities we serve goes well beyond real estate. That local perspective is part of what they bring to every client relationship.