Minnesota in the fall is pure magic—cool, crisp air, fiery foliage, and yes, apples galore. Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend with family, a romantic fall date, or just want the freshest apple cider and warm donuts around, these apple orchards deliver the full autumn experience. As a local explorer and seasonal tradition chaser, I’ve rounded up the 10 best apple orchards in Minnesota to visit this fall, with everything from hayrides to hard cider bars. So grab your flannel, and let’s go orchard-hopping!
1. Afton Apple Orchard – Hastings, MN
🍎 Best For: Family-friendly fun & scenic fall views.
📍 Location: 14421 90th St S, Hastings, MN 55033.
🌐 Visit Afton Apple Orchard
Afton Apple Orchard is a must-visit for fall lovers. With over 200 acres of rolling hills and more than 20 apple varieties—including Honeycrisp, SweeTango, and Haralson—this orchard offers a classic Minnesota autumn experience.
But it’s not just about apples. The orchard has:
A 10-acre corn maze (yes, ten!)
Hayrides through picturesque farmland
A massive pumpkin patch
An epic kids’ playground and petting zoo
Come hungry, because the apple donuts and hot cider are unbeatable. If you’re visiting in October, don’t miss their Fall Festival Weekends for live music, pony rides, and fresh caramel apples.
2. Pine Tree Apple Orchard – White Bear Lake, MN
🍎 Best For: Fresh-baked apple pies & lakeside strolls
📍 Location: 450 Apple Orchard Rd, White Bear Lake, MN 55110
🌐 Explore Pine Tree Apple Orchard
If you’re craving a more relaxed, nostalgic vibe, Pine Tree Apple Orchard is your spot. This orchard has been a local tradition for over 65 years, and they still bake all their legendary pies on-site. Yes, the Dutch apple pie with cinnamon crumb topping is worth the drive alone.
You can:
Pick your own apples (usually starting mid-September)
Stock up on turnovers, muffins, and fresh apple cider
Walk along the peaceful lakeside trail
While it’s smaller than others on the list, Pine Tree’s charm lies in its simplicity. It’s perfect for couples or those looking to slow down and soak in autumn.
3. Apple Jack Orchards – Delano, MN
🍎 Best For: Fall dates, cider tasting & Instagram-worthy views
📍 Location: 4875 37th St SE, Delano, MN 55328
🌐 Visit Apple Jack Orchards
Apple Jack Orchards feels like a full-blown fall festival. Located along the Crow River, this family-owned gem is known for its lively atmosphere and fall photo ops at every turn. Think sunflower fields, apple crates, and hay bales stacked high.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
A cider bar with seasonal drinks (try the apple cider slushie or hard cider flight!)
A cozy bakery café with paninis, donuts, and caramel apple nachos
Pumpkin picking, zip lines, a climbing wall, and kids’ activities
They grow over a dozen apple varieties including Zestar!, SweeTango, and Honeycrisp—all available for picking or purchase in their beautiful farm market.
4. Minnetonka Orchards – Minnetrista, MN
🍎 Best For: Family weekends, weddings & scenic orchard strolls
📍 Location: 6530 County Rd 26, Minnetrista, MN 55364
🌐 Learn more about Minnetonka Orchards
Just west of the Twin Cities, Minnetonka Orchards offers a full-scale fall experience wrapped in Midwest charm. With 40+ acres of apple trees, it’s great for both first-timers and seasoned orchard-goers.
Expect:
A rustic barn-style café with fresh pies and cider donuts
Wagon rides through the orchard
Live music on weekends
Farm animals and yard games for the kids
This orchard is also a popular wedding venue, so don’t be surprised if you spot a bride wandering through the trees. Their apple season usually kicks off in late August and goes strong through October.
5. Whistling Well Farm – Hastings, MN
🍎 Best For: Small-town charm & quiet countryside vibes
📍 Location: 8973 80th St S, Hastings, MN 55033
🌐 Check out Whistling Well Farm
Tucked into the St. Croix River Valley, Whistling Well Farm is a hidden gem with fewer crowds and a peaceful, pastoral feel. If you’re looking to skip the hustle and just enjoy a quiet apple-picking afternoon, this is the place.
What to love:
They specialize in Honeycrisp and Zestar! apples
Freshly baked pies and jugs of orchard-pressed cider
Friendly goats and chickens that roam the property
Whistling Well also supports local charities and veterans’ programs through seasonal sales, giving your visit even more heart.
6. Sweetland Orchard – Webster, MN
🍎 Best For: Craft cider fans & orchard purists
📍 Location: 26205 Fairlawn Ave, Webster, MN 55088
🌐 Visit Sweetland Orchard
Sweetland Orchard is a small but mighty operation that’s all about quality, sustainability, and flavor. If you’re a fan of craft cider, this is your paradise. The owners grow heirloom and traditional cider apples, and their small-batch hard ciders are fermented right on site.
What makes Sweetland special:
Tasting room with dry, semi-sweet, and funky cider blends
Unique apple varieties like Liberty and Chestnut Crab
Peaceful picnic areas nestled among the trees
No gimmicks—just good apples and great drinks
7. Emma Krumbee’s Orchard & Farm – Belle Plaine, MN
🍎 Best For: Fall festivals, baked goods & kids’ activities
📍 Location: 31186 Co Rd 31, Belle Plaine, MN 56011
🌐 Explore Emma Krumbee’s
This orchard is practically a fall theme park—and we mean that in the best way. Emma Krumbee’s is famous across the state for its Scarecrow Festival, which runs through late September and October, featuring over 100 life-size scarecrow displays around the property.
Highlights:
10+ apple varieties for U-pick
A cozy bakery with famous apple pies and turnovers
Tractor-pulled rides and a pumpkin patch
Garden center and on-site restaurant
Kids will love the vintage tractors and farm animals, while adults can relax with a pie and hot cider on the patio.
8. Deer Lake Orchard – Buffalo, MN
🍎 Best For: Peaceful apple picking & organic vibes
📍 Location: 1903 10th St SW, Buffalo, MN 55313
🌐 Check out Deer Lake Orchard
For those seeking a low-key day in nature, Deer Lake Orchard offers a peaceful, dog-friendly experience surrounded by countryside views. With a mix of traditional and heritage apple varieties, they cater to pickers looking for quality fruit without all the carnival-style crowds.
What to expect:
Pick-your-own apples (no reservations required!)
Organic growing practices
Live music and local food vendors on select weekends
Pet-friendly policies—leashed pups are welcome!
9. Fireside Orchard and Gardens – Northfield, MN
🍎 Best For: Garden lovers & peaceful strolls
📍 Location: 2225 Lonsdale Blvd E, Northfield, MN 55057
🌐 Visit Fireside Orchard
This quiet orchard offers more than just apples. It’s also home to beautifully maintained flower and sculpture gardens, making it ideal for leisurely visits, dates, or a solo afternoon recharge. They’re best known for their Fireside apples, a variety that stores exceptionally well and tastes deliciously crisp.
Why go:
Garden paths lined with roses and perennials
A charming gift shop with local jams, cider, and crafts
Homemade apple crisp and ice cream available on-site
Quiet and uncrowded, even in peak season
10. LuceLine Orchard – Watertown, MN
🍎 Best For: Weekend events, walking trails & family fun
📍 Location: 2755 Rose Ave, Watertown, MN 55388
🌐 Explore LuceLine Orchard
If you’re looking for a weekend experience packed with everything fall has to offer, LuceLine Orchard delivers. With 155 acres of apple trees, vineyards, and walking trails, this is more than just an orchard—it’s an autumn escape.
Top features:
U-pick apples, pumpkins, and grapes
Live music, food trucks, and wine tastings
Free walking trails and fat-tire biking paths
A rustic-chic barn perfect for photos and private events
They grow over 10 apple varieties including fan-favorite First Kiss, developed right here in Minnesota.
Final Thoughts: Why Minnesota Apple Orchards Are Worth the Trip in 2025
Minnesota’s apple season isn’t just about fruit—it’s about celebrating the harvest, creating memories, and indulging in all things fall. These orchards each offer something different—whether it’s peaceful countryside walks or bustling weekend markets. Wherever you go, expect crisp apples, warm smiles, and the coziest vibes the Midwest has to offer.
Plan early, especially for October weekends—many orchards now require online reservations for apple picking or corn mazes. And don’t forget your camera (and an extra tote bag—you’ll need it for all those apples!).
🍏 FAQs About Apple Orchards in Minnesota (2025)
Q1: When is apple picking season in Minnesota?
A: Apple season in Minnesota typically runs from early September through late October, with peak picking in mid to late September.
Q2: What are the best apple varieties grown in Minnesota?
A: Popular Minnesota-grown apples include Honeycrisp, First Kiss, Haralson, Sweet Tango, and Zestar!—all known for their crispness and flavor.
Q3: Do Minnesota apple orchards charge an entry fee?
A: Most orchards are free to enter, but charge by the pound for picked apples. Some offer paid activities like hayrides or corn mazes.
Q4: Are dogs allowed at Minnesota apple orchards?
A: Many orchards are pet-friendly, including Deer Lake Orchard and LuceLine Orchard, but dogs must be leashed. Always check ahead.
Q5: What should I bring for a visit to an orchard?
A: Bring a reusable bag or basket, wear comfortable shoes, and dress in layers for the fall weather. Some orchards are cash-only, so bring small bills.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
