Best Apple Picking Spots

10 Best Apple Picking Spots in Massachusetts (2025)

There’s something magical about apple picking in Massachusetts—especially when the air turns crisp, the leaves begin to glow, and fresh cider donuts are warm out of the oven. As someone who’s visited countless orchards across the state, I’ve narrowed it down to my top 10 apple picking spots in Massachusetts for 2025. Whether you’re heading out with kids, planning a fall date, or just want that perfect autumn Instagram photo, these farms are the real deal. Let’s dive into where you can find the sweetest apples, best fall vibes, and unforgettable New England charm.

1. Honey Pot Hill Orchards – Stow, MA

If there’s one place that captures the heart of fall in Massachusetts, it’s Honey Pot Hill Orchards. This family-run farm has been around since 1926 and is hands-down one of the most beloved apple picking spots in the state.

  • Over 20 varieties of apples including McIntosh, Honeycrisp, and Cortland

  • Famous hedge maze and mini mazes for kids

  • Apple cider donuts that are so good, you’ll regret not buying two dozen

  • A friendly petting zoo and hayrides on weekends

  • Website: Honey Pot Hill Orchards
  • 📍 138 Sudbury Rd, Stow, MA 01775

2. Tougas Family Farm – Northborough, MA

Tougas Family Farm is one of my go-to places when I want a peaceful, scenic picking experience. It’s a working family farm that focuses on sustainability, quality, and community.

  • Beautiful hilltop orchard views that are stunning in late September

  • A barnyard play area and goats that kids love

  • Their farm store sells homemade pies, caramel apples, and fresh apple cider slushies

  • You can also pick peaches, pumpkins, and other seasonal fruits

  • Website: Tougas Family Farm
  • 📍 234 Ball St, Northborough, MA 01532

3. Red Apple Farm – Phillipston, MA

Red Apple Farm feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie set during fall. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but totally worth the drive if you want the full rustic New England experience.

  • Pick-your-own apples, pumpkins, and even blueberries (in early fall!)

  • On-site BBQ, beer barn, and hard cider—yes, this is an adult-friendly orchard too

  • Home to the annual Apple Blossom Festival and Harvest Jam

  • Amazing views of rolling hills, especially at sunset

  • Website: Red Apple Farm
  • 📍 455 Highland Ave, Phillipston, MA 01331

4. Cider Hill Farm – Amesbury, MA

Located in the charming town of Amesbury near the New Hampshire border, Cider Hill Farm offers a modern, clean, and downright beautiful apple picking experience.

  • Over 40 apple varieties grown across lush, rolling hills

  • Farm store loaded with local goods, honey, and fresh-baked items

  • Incredible hard cider tastings with small-batch flavors like lavender honey and cranberry ginger

  • Instagrammable fall décor and photo ops everywhere

  • Website: Cider Hill Farm
  • 📍 45 Fern Ave, Amesbury, MA 01913

5. Russell Orchards – Ipswich, MA

Just minutes from Crane Beach, Russell Orchards is where you go when you want to pair a beach day with apple picking. It’s an old-school, laid-back kind of place that’s deeply rooted in local tradition.

  • Orchard sits on 120 scenic acres of preserved farmland

  • Offers pick-your-own apples, peaches, blackberries, and pumpkins

  • Their scratch-made apple cider donuts are among the best in the state

  • Offers a cute farm stand, wine shop, and farm animals

  • Website: Russell Orchards
  • 📍 143 Argilla Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938

6. Shelburne Farm – Stow, MA

Tucked in the same town as Honey Pot Hill, Shelburne Farm is a hidden gem with a more relaxed, less commercial vibe. If you want a charming, no-frills apple picking experience with top-tier fruit and fewer crowds, this is your spot.

  • Dozens of apple varieties, including lesser-known heirlooms

  • Cozy farm stand with apple cider, local honey, and homemade treats

  • Kids play area and scenic tractor rides on weekends

  • Staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming

  • Website: Shelburne Farm
  • 📍 106 W Acton Rd, Stow, MA 01775

7. Berlin Orchards – Berlin, MA

This farm strikes the ideal balance between peaceful and fun. Nestled in Central Massachusetts, Berlin Orchards is family-owned and offers a great selection of apples in a beautiful rural setting.

  • Hayrides to the orchards are a fun touch for kids and couples alike

  • Friendly farm animals and corn maze

  • Their apple crisp and hot cider are absolute must-haves

  • The trees are low-hanging, so it’s super accessible for all ages

  • Website: Berlin Orchards
  • 📍 310 Sawyer Hill Rd, Berlin, MA 01503

8. Parlee Farms – Tyngsboro, MA

If you’re looking for a clean, picturesque, and well-run farm with a ton of extra activities, Parlee Farms is a standout in northern Massachusetts near the New Hampshire border.

  • Over 20 apple varieties, including crisp Macouns and juicy Fujis

  • Flower picking, pumpkins, and pony rides for kids

  • Their Farmstand Bakery serves famous apple crisp, cider donuts, and fresh pies

  • Perfectly maintained orchard rows and stunning fall views

  • Website: Parlee Farms
  • 📍 95 Farwell Rd, Tyngsboro, MA 01879

9. Lookout Farm – Natick, MA

Dating back to 1651, Lookout Farm is one of the oldest continuously working farms in the U.S.—and one of the most unique apple picking experiences in Massachusetts.

  • Offers apple picking by train ride through the orchards

  • Home to a craft cider bar and farm-to-table restaurant

  • Plenty of kids’ activities: train rides, farm animals, play structures

  • Live music and seasonal events like Oktoberfest and Harvest Weekends

  • Website: Lookout Farm
  • 📍 89 Pleasant St S, Natick, MA 01760

10. Nashoba Valley Winery, Distillery, Brewery & Orchard – Bolton, MA

This one is for the grown-up crowd. Nashoba Valley Winery offers apple picking with a side of wine tastings, gourmet food, and panoramic views of rolling hills.

  • Pick-your-own apples plus wines, beers, and spirits made on-site

  • Award-winning restaurant (J’s) with seasonal menus and orchard views

  • Weekend tastings and tours of the winery and distillery

  • Scenic picnic tables where you can enjoy a bottle under the trees

  • Website: Nashoba Valley Winery
  • 📍 100 Wattaquadock Hill Rd, Bolton, MA 01740

Final Thoughts

There’s no shortage of apple picking spots in Massachusetts, but the farms above truly offer something extra—whether it’s peaceful views, wine tastings, or just unbeatable cider donuts. These experiences make fall in New England unforgettable.

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