Best Apple Orchards Near NYC (Hudson Valley, Catskills, Jersey, Hamptons & Beyond | Fall 2025 Guide)

When fall hits New York, the urge to escape the city for crisp air, fiery leaves, and a bag of freshly picked apples is irresistible. Luckily, within a few hours of the George Washington Bridge, you’ll find some of the best orchards in the Northeast — perfect for apple picking, cider sipping, and fall day-tripping.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly farm, a hard-cider tasting room, or a scenic stop on your camping weekend, here are our favorite orchards near NYC.

New Jersey (Easy Day Trips from NYC)

Perfect for when you want a quick apple picking fix without a long drive.

  • Riamede Farm (Chester, NJ) — Classic, low-key orchard with hayrides and “old-school” vibes. ~1 hr from GWB.

  • Apple Ridge Orchards (Warwick, NY—near NJ border) — Family-friendly with cider donuts; no reservations required. ~1 hr 15 min from GWB.

Hudson Valley (Classic Orchards & Farms)

The Hudson Valley is apple country — rolling hills, river views, and some of the best apple orchards and cider donuts in New York.

  • Fishkill Farms (Hopewell Junction, NY) — Gorgeous views, Pick-Your-Own by reservation, plus Treasury Cider bar for hard-cider flights. ~1 hr 20 min from GWB.

  • Lawrence Farms Orchards (Newburgh, NY) — Big variety and family-style setup. ~1 hr 20 min from GWB.

  • DuBois Farms (Highland, NY) — Warm cider donuts, farm animals, and The Tavern pouring local hard cider and beer. ~1 hr 45 min from GWB.

  • Rose Hill Farm & Rose Hill Ferments (Red Hook, NY) — Historic orchard with holistic-grown fruit, plus a cidery and wine bar. ~2 hrs from GWB.

Catskills (Apple Picking + Fall Foliage)

The Catskills are one of the most popular NYC escapes in fall — fiery foliage, crisp mountain air, and cozy cabins set the scene. Adding an orchard stop to your weekend means you can pair scenic drives with apple picking, cider sipping, and farm-fresh treats. If you bring home a jug of cider, try one of our easy recipes for hot or sparkling apple cider to keep the Catskills vibe going.

  • Saunderskill Farm (Accord, NY) — One of the oldest family-run farms in the country, with pick-your-own apples, a bakery, and a farm market. Relaxed vibe and gorgeous views.

  • Westwind Orchard (Accord, NY) — Organic apples, house-made hard ciders, and wood-fired pizza on weekends. Cozy, boutique orchard experience.

  • Kelder’s Farm (Kerhonkson, NY) — A bigger, activity-rich stop with U-pick apples, a corn maze, and 35+ attractions — perfect for families or groups.

  • Wright’s Farm (Gardiner, NY) — Classic apple picking with a bakery and on-site brewery.

Albany & Capital Region (Weekend Adventures)

Heading north? These apple orchards make a great stop on a foliage drive or longer upstate getaway.

  • Indian Ladder Farms (Altamont, NY) — Apple picking, cidery + brewery on site, and stunning fall views. We’ll be heading here during our October 3–5 campout for a fall foliage ride and motorcycle meetup (non-riders welcome too!). ~2 hrs 30 min from GWB.

Hamptons & Montauk (Fall by the Sea)

Perfect if you’re stretching apple season into an off-season Montauk trip.

  • Milk Pail Fresh Market (Sagaponack, NY) — Quaint Hamptons farm market near Wolffer Estate Vineyard. U-pick apples and pumpkins, plus cider and seasonal treats. ~2 hrs 30 min from GWB.

Poconos (Pennsylvania Mountain Escape)

Heading west instead of north? The Poconos offer mountain views with your apple picking adventure.

  • Heckman Orchards (Effort, PA) — Classic Pocono orchard with U-pick apples, pumpkins, and a market stocked with jams and cider. Great as a stop before or after a cabin weekend. ~2 hrs from GWB.

Bonus: Union Square Greenmarket (NYC)

Not leaving the city? The Union Square Greenmarket has fresh New York apples and cider — and the Cider Village in October is a must.

Pro Tips for Apple Picking

  • Check before you go: Some orchards (like Fishkill) require reservations on peak weekends.

  • Go early: Popular varieties can sell out by afternoon.

  • Try the hard stuff: Treasury Cider (Fishkill), The Tavern (DuBois), Rose Hill Ferments, and Indian Ladder all pour on-site.

  • Pair it with camping: Orchards make the perfect stop on the way to a Catskills weekend — nothing beats fresh cider by the fire.

  • Bring home cider: Stock up on a jug and make one of our crowd-friendly cider recipes — perfect for your next bonfire or NYC rooftop night.”

Whether you’re planning a quick day trip from NYC, a Hudson Valley foliage drive, or a full Catskills camping weekend, these orchards deliver the flavors (and photos) that make fall in New York unforgettable.

So grab a jug, pack a sweater, and hit the road.

 

Keep Exploring

Erin Hollon

Wellness Educator, Business Coach, and CEO of Ivy+Light.

https://www.ivyandlight.com
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Apple Cider Recipes for a Crowd + Favorite Orchards Near NYC (Hudson Valley & Catskills Fall 2025 Camping Guide)