As the leaves turn and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by spending a day at a local orchard. Connecticut offers some of the most picturesque apple-picking spots, where you can enjoy the bounty of the harvest while soaking in the beauty of New England fall. At Piper and Dune, we love celebrating everything local, so here are some top picks for the larger apple orchards in Connecticut, but there’s plenty of hidden gems too like: Hidden Gem Orchards in Southbury, Averill Farm in Washington, March Farms in Bethlehem and more!
Here’s some of the bigger orchards:
Lyman Orchards – Middlefield
Located in the scenic countryside of Middlefield, Lyman Orchards has been a local staple for over 275 years. You can pick from more than 30 varieties of apples and explore their incredible corn maze 🌽, take a hayride, and indulge in their famous apple cider donuts 🍩. Whether you're looking for a day of family fun or a romantic fall date, Lyman Orchards has something for everyone.
Pro Tip: After apple picking, stop by their Apple Barrel Market for freshly baked pies, cider, and local products to take fall home with you!
Belltown Hill Orchards – South Glastonbury
Belltown Hill Orchards is a family-run farm that offers an array of apple varieties, from the classic McIntosh 🍏 to the lesser-known Cortland and Northern Spy. They make apple picking easy with pre-picking reservations, ensuring you have plenty of room to roam. The orchard is beautifully nestled in the hills of Glastonbury, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle 🍂.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave without visiting their farm store for freshly pressed cider, homemade apple butter, and other seasonal treats 🍯.
Silverman’s Farm – Easton
Silverman’s Farm has been a favorite for generations of Connecticut families. Their hillside orchard offers stunning views as you pick from their rows of apple trees 🌳. The farm also features a petting zoo 🐐, so it's a great spot for kids. Depending on the time of your visit, you might even get to pick pumpkins, pears, or peaches too!
Pro Tip: If you’re bringing little ones, grab a few bags of animal feed and spend some time with the farm’s friendly goats, alpacas, and other animals 🦙.
Rogers Orchards – Southington
For a truly authentic apple-picking experience, head to Rogers Orchards. This historic orchard has been family-owned and operated for over eight generations 👨🌾. You’ll find a wide variety of apples perfect for baking, snacking, or making homemade cider. Rogers Orchards is also known for its farm market, where you can purchase homemade apple pies 🥧, fresh donuts, and local honey 🍯.
Pro Tip: Plan your trip for early October to pick crisp, tart varieties like Honeycrisp and Mutsu – perfect for fall recipes! 🍂
Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard – Shelton
Beardsley’s is a smaller, family-run orchard that offers a more laid-back apple-picking experience. With 10 apple varieties, including favorites like Fuji, Gala, and Jonagold, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect apples 🍎. In addition to picking apples, Beardsley’s also offers freshly pressed cider and homemade pies.
Pro Tip: The cider from Beardsley’s is a must-try. Pick up a gallon to take home, or enjoy a fresh glass right there at the orchard 🍏.
🍂 Wrap Up Your Day at Piper and Dune 🍂 Once you’ve picked your apples and soaked in the fall beauty, stop by Piper and Dune to shop our new Fall sweaters 🧶—perfect for keeping you cozy all season long. Pair your fall look with our beautiful leather purses 👜, and don’t forget to take the smell of the orchard home with you by picking up one of our scented candles 🕯️ inspired by autumnal notes like apple, cinnamon, and cedar.
And of course, bring home some of our locally-made goodies to enjoy with your apples 🍎. Try our Wonderland Jams for a delicious spread, or pair your apples with Hannan Honey’ 🍯 or Pure Connecticut Maple Syrup for a sweet treat!
🍁 Follow Us on Instagram (@piperanddune) for more fall inspiration and updates on new arrivals!
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Emma, Chris, and The Piper and Dune Family
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