Apple picking is one of those New England fall traditions we look forward to every year. Whether you want a quick trip close to home, cider donuts and a few bags of apples, or a full fall day with hayrides, farm animals and plenty to keep the kids busy, there are so many great orchards within an easy drive of NWN.

Dowse Orchards, Sherborn

One of the closest options for many NWN families, Dowse Orchards is perfect when you want a classic, low-key apple-picking experience without turning it into an all-day excursion. Pick your own apples and stop by the farm stand for seasonal produce, cider, pumpkins and other fall favorites.

Best for: Easy, close to home apple picking.

Tangerini , Millis

 In addition to pick-your-own apples, the farm has seasonal flower and pumpkin picking, farm animals, a farm stand, ice cream, and The Farmer’s Porch, its on-site farm-to-table restaurant. Apple picking is currently open daily from 9am–5pm, with Ginger Gold, Macintosh and Gala among the varieties available right now.

Best for: Apple picking + lunch + plenty to do with the kids

Lookout Farm, Natick

One of the most convenient options in MetroWest, Lookout Farm offers much more than apple picking. Families can make a day of the play areas and corn maze, while the farm also has a market, dining, drinks and live entertainment throughout the season.

Best for: A full fall outing close to home.

Tougas Family Farm,  Northborough

If the kids want more than just apples, Tougas is a great choice. In addition to pick-your-own apples, you’ll find barnyard animals, a large farm-themed playground, wagon rides, a farm store, baked goods and plenty of cider donuts. There are also food, ice cream and drinks available, making this an easy place to spend a few hours.

Best for: Younger kids and a full family day.

Honey Pot Hill Orchards, Stow

A classic Massachusetts apple-picking destination, Honey Pot Hill grows more than two dozen apple varieties. Beyond picking, families come for the cider donuts, hayrides, farm animals and hedge mazes. It’s one of the bigger orchard experiences on our list and a fun choice when you want to really lean into fall.

Best for: The quintessential New England apple-picking experience.

Carver Hill Orchard, Stow

Also located in Stow, Carver Hill offers a smaller and more relaxed alternative to some of the larger orchards. Stop in for pick-your-own and seasonal produce, and don’t forget the cider donuts.

Best for: A more laid-back orchard experience.

Bolton Spring Farm, Bolton

The beautiful orchard views alone make Bolton Spring Farm worth the drive. The longtime family farm offers pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, plus a country store and bakery filled with fall treats. Save room for their apple dumplings, apple crisp and cider donuts.

Best for: Fall treats + beautiful scenery.

Fairmount Fruit Farm,  Franklin

Fairmount Fruit Farm offers seasonal pick-your-own apples along with a farm market and special fall events throughout the season. It’s a convenient option for families coming from the southern side of MetroWest.

Best for: Families south of Needham and Wellesley.

The Big Apple, Wrentham

The Big Apple is another great option if you’re heading south. Pick your own apples, then visit the farm store for cider, donuts, pies, seasonal produce and plenty of other fall goodies. You can also find pumpkins as the season progresses.

Best for: Apple picking + stocking up on fall treats.

Berlin Orchards,  Berlin

Berlin Orchards combines traditional apple picking with just enough extra fall fun. Families can enjoy tractor rides, visit the farm animals and stop at the farm store for seasonal treats, including those all-important cider donuts.

Best for: A classic family orchard day without feeling overwhelming.