This post was updated on August 28, 2019, to reflect current information
The leaves are starting to change, pumpkin is taking over every menu in town, and that familiar chill has returned to the air. Fall is upon us again! We look forward to this season every year for the fun traditions it provides, such as picking your own apples. A day in the orchards gathering a fresh harvest with loved ones is the perfect way to ring in the new season — and there's no denying that apples straight from the tree just taste better. Thankfully, the gorgeous Ohio countryside is filled with orchards and farms filled to the brim with juicy, crisp apples ripe for picking. Below, we rounded up some of our absolute favorites. Enjoy!
At Patterson Fruit Farm, producing fresh fruit is a way of life. The team here enjoys providing food for their local community and sharing the farming experience with families who stop by for a day of adventuring. During apple season (August through early winter), the farm invites you to take a wagon ride and pick your own apples from more than 30 varieties grown on-site. Fun Fest runs from September 14th through October 27th, and boasts a full gauntlet of family-friendly activities, including horse-drawn wagon rides, giant haystacks, a corn maze, pumpkin painting and more!
Photo courtesy of Bauman Orchards
If you make the hour-long journey to Bauman Orchards in Rittman, you will be treated to more than 40,000 apple trees and 18 different varieties (10 available to pick yourself). Guests are invited to pick their own apples from September 2 through October 14. After a long day in the orchard, reward yourself with some fresh-pressed apple cider (and maybe a few baked goods) in the market. Looking for a pumpkin, gourd or squash for eating or decorating? You can find those in the market as well.
This family-owned market is a favorite year-round, but especially during the fall months. Starting in September, bring the family and pick your own apples in the scenic orchards. After your arms are full, peruse the market for fresh pastries, baking supplies and more! You're going to need some apple pie materials, after all.
Photo courtesy of Monroe's Orchard
Monroe's Orchard is a must-visit location for families looking for a fun day out in the sun. You'll find fresh fruits year-round, but it would be a shame to miss the sight of the bountiful apple orchards during the fall months. Stop in for a pick-your-own experience you won't soon forget.
Photo courtesy of Rittman Orchards
Rittman Orchards is known far and wide as one of the most gorgeous settings to spend an afternoon with loved ones. The market is open year-round and offers a wide variety of baked goods and fresh produce, but fruit-picking is the real draw of this location. Strawberries, peaches, apples and more are all available for you to grab straight from the source!
Photo courtesy of Sage's Apples
This local favorite is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and it's no wonder it has been so successful for so long! The farm grows more than 50 varieties of apples and sells a wide range of fresh produce in its market year-round. While you aren't actually able to pick your own apples at this location, the market offers several delicious varieties that you won't be able to find anywhere else. It's certainly worth a visit.
Photo courtesy of...
Photo courtesy of Jeff Gibson via The Winery at Wolf Creek
The Winery at Wolf Creek was founded in 1980 by Andrew Wineberg on his parents' property with nothing but 10 acres and a dream. The winery has since grown and fallen under new ownership, but continues to be family owned and operated. The current owner Andy Troutman and his family live on the vineyard year round, and Troutman ensures that the wines produced are top-notch and served with a smile. Locals know that the welcoming atmosphere at this local spot is second to none, and typically flock to the vineyard for fun events like the dog-friendly Yappy Hour and live music Mondays and Wednesdays.
Photo courtesy of Sarah's Winery
Husband-and-wife team Mike and Margaret opened the doors of Sarah's Winery in 2007, realizing a years-long dream and honoring their late daughter, Sarah. The vineyard and tasting room is an incredible homage to their loved one — boasting shaded picnic tables among picturesque gardens, a rustic chic vibe in the tasting room, a cozy loft, a deck and (of course) excellent wines made from the grapes grown on-site. The newest addition to the property, an elegant pavilion, opened this April, and offers stunning views of the grape vines season to season. Rumor has it that this is a fantastic venue for watching the Cleveland Browns during the fall!
Photo courtesy of Silver Run Winery
If you find yourself in Doylestown, don't miss this family-owned boutique winery. Husband-and-wife duo Ed Sunkin and Christine Sabo bought the property in 2003, pursuing a dream to build and operate a family-friendly farm to host celebrations and special events. The couple pursued a wine education, working through the Ohio State University Agriculture Research and Development Center, and coupled that with winemaking knowledge they gained from traveling across the world. Their expertise has earned them a number of accolades, including "Editor's Choice" awards in 2006 and 2007 from Wine Maker Magazine. Taste the winning wines for yourself by visiting the tasting room, and make sure to strike up a conversation with one of the owners.