Apple picking has become a favorite fall tradition for families, couples, and even groups of friends across Illinois. Whether you’re looking for the juiciest Honeycrisp, a peaceful countryside escape, or a day packed with hayrides and cider donuts, Illinois orchards deliver. Below, I’ve highlighted ten of the best apple orchards in Illinois for 2025, each offering something unique.
Located about an hour from Chicago, All Seasons Orchard is one of the biggest apple-picking spots in northern Illinois. With over 15,000 apple trees and more than 12 apple varieties, it’s perfect if you want both quantity and quality. Their famous Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are usually the first to sell out, so plan your visit early in the season.
Massive corn maze (one of the largest in Illinois).
Fresh cider, apple donuts, and a farm market full of local produce.
Family-friendly activities like a petting zoo and wagon rides.
- Location: 14510 IL Route 176, Woodstock, IL
- Visit: All Seasons Orchard
2. Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch – Champaign, IL
Curtis Orchard combines apple picking with a pumpkin patch, making it a must-visit in the fall. They’ve been running since the 1970s and are known for their award-winning apple cider.
30+ apple varieties, from Jonathan to Golden Delicious.
The Flying Monkey Café, famous for its apple fritters and pies.
A fun zone for kids with pony rides, a corn crib, and inflatables.
- Location: 3902 S Duncan Rd, Champaign, IL
- Visit: Curtis Orchard
3. Kuipers Family Farm – Maple Park, IL
Kuipers is a family-owned farm west of Chicago, offering a more laid-back apple-picking experience. With rolling farmland and over 230 acres, it’s an Instagram-worthy destination.
U-Pick apples and pumpkins.
A country store with homemade jams, caramel apples, and cider.
Scenic wagon rides around the orchard.
- Location: 1N318 Watson Rd, Maple Park, IL
- Visit: Kuipers Family Farm
4. Jonamac Orchard – Malta, IL
Jonamac is a family-owned orchard with a reputation for both its apples and its hard cider brewery. If you’re looking for a mix of family fun and adult experiences, this is your spot.
Over 20 apple varieties including Honeygold, Empire, and Red Delicious.
A giant corn maze and haunted maze nights in October.
Freshly baked apple cider donuts (locals say they’re some of the best in Illinois).
- Location: 19412 Shabbona Rd, Malta, IL
- Visit: Jonamac Orchard
5. Edwards Apple Orchard – Poplar Grove, IL
Edwards Apple Orchard is a northern Illinois classic, operating since the 1960s. Known for its warm hospitality and top-quality apples, it’s a local favorite for families.
More than 18 apple varieties, including Cortland, Gala, and Jonathan.
A country barn shop selling fresh cider, honey, and homemade treats.
Petting zoo and wagon rides for kids.
- Location: 7061 Centerville Rd, Poplar Grove, IL
- Visit: Edwards Apple Orchard
6. Tanner’s Orchard – Speer, IL
Tanner’s Orchard is a classic, family-owned orchard in central Illinois, perfect for a full day of apple picking and fall fun. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and variety of apples, including Jonathan, McIntosh, and Red Delicious.
Seasonal U-Pick apples and pumpkins.
A small petting zoo with goats and rabbits.
A farm market with fresh cider, donuts, and baked goods.
Family events in the fall like hayrides and apple festivals.
- Location: 8051 N. Rt. 117, Speer, IL
- Visit: Tanner’s Orchard
7. Alstede Farms – Elgin, IL
Although technically just over the border in Illinois’ northwest suburbs, Alstede Farms offers a huge variety of U-Pick fruits and a very interactive farm experience. Their apple picking is especially popular with families from Chicago.
Over 20 apple varieties including Gala, Honeycrisp, and Fuji.
Fun seasonal activities: corn mazes, hayrides, and pumpkin patches.
Farm market with homemade apple pies, fresh cider, and jams.
Regular workshops for kids like apple decorating and cooking classes.
- Location: 1 Alstede Farm Ln, Elgin, IL
- Visit: Alstede Farms
8. Apple Holler – Sturtevant, IL
Apple Holler is famous for its educational focus. Perfect for families who want to combine apple picking with learning about farm life. Their apples are crisp and flavorful, including McIntosh, Cortland, and Honeycrisp.
Guided farm tours explaining apple cultivation.
Fun activities: hayrides, corn maze, and pumpkin cannon.
A farm store with fresh-baked pies, jams, and cider.
Seasonal events like apple festivals and harvest celebrations.
- Location: 3694 313th Ave, Sturtevant, IL
- Visit: Apple Holler
9. Healy’s Orchard – Lake Geneva, IL
Healy’s Orchard blends scenic beauty with high-quality apple picking. Located in a picturesque part of Illinois, it’s ideal for families and couples looking for a peaceful fall outing.
Wide variety of apples including Gala, Red Delicious, and Fuji.
On-site bakery with cider donuts and apple pies.
Seasonal events such as hayrides, pumpkin patches, and apple festivals.
Beautiful scenery perfect for photography and family outings.
- Location: 3235 Wisconsin Rd, Lake Geneva, IL
10. Double Oak Farm – Yorkville, IL
Double Oak Farm is a family-friendly orchard with a variety of apples and activities for all ages. Known for their fresh cider and crisp apple varieties, it’s a hidden gem for central Illinois visitors.
U-Pick apples and pumpkins with over 15 varieties.
Farm market featuring homemade baked goods, cider, and jams.
Seasonal attractions: corn maze, wagon rides, and petting zoo.
Special fall festivals with live music and kid-friendly activities.
- Location: 1600 E. Route 34, Yorkville, IL
- Visit: Double Oak Farm
Final Thoughts
Illinois is a treasure trove for apple lovers, and 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for apple picking. From the sprawling fields of All Seasons Orchard in Woodstock to the family-friendly charm of Double Oak Farm in Yorkville, each orchard offers its own unique experience.
Whether you’re after the juiciest Honeycrisp, a fun-filled day with kids, or just a peaceful escape into the fall countryside, these top 10 apple orchards in Illinois deliver something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Apple Orchards in Illinois
- 1. When is the best time for apple picking in Illinois?
The peak season usually runs from mid-September through mid-October, depending on the apple variety and weather. Early-season apples like Gala and McIntosh are ready in September, while Honeycrisp and Fuji are usually best in October. - 2. Are the apple orchards family-friendly?
Yes! Most of the orchards listed, such as Curtis Orchard and Kuipers Family Farm, offer family-oriented activities including hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and seasonal festivals. - 3. Do I need to make a reservation to visit?
For most Illinois orchards, walk-ins are welcome, but some popular orchards (like All Seasons Orchard) recommend checking availability or reserving for large groups, especially on weekends. - 4. What types of apples can I expect to pick?
Illinois orchards grow a wide variety including Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Jonathan, Cortland, McIntosh, and Red Delicious. Availability depends on the orchard and the specific week of your visit. - 5. Can I buy other products besides apples?
Absolutely! Most orchards have a farm market or bakery selling fresh cider, apple pies, donuts, jams, and other local produce. Some even offer cider tasting or specialty items like caramel apples.
