Top 6 Spots for Apple Picking in Northern Virginia in 2025

As the crisp autumn air settles in, the annual tradition of apple picking calls. Northern Virginia, with its rolling hills and scenic landscapes, offers a wealth of orchards perfect for a family outing, a romantic date, or a peaceful solo trip. But not all orchards are created equal. Some boast sprawling family festivals with corn mazes and wagon rides, while others provide a quiet, traditional farm experience focused purely on the harvest.

This guide cuts through the noise to bring you a curated list of some of the best apple orchards in Virginia, each with its unique charm and offerings. We'll explore what makes each location special, from heirloom apple varieties and farm-fresh cider donuts to stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views. Our goal is to provide the practical details you need to choose the perfect spot for your ideal fall adventure, ensuring your day is filled with fun, flavor, and lasting memories.

When is Apple Picking Season?

Apple picking season in Northern Virginia usually runs from early September through late October, when apple orchards in places like Winchester, Bluemont, and Delaplane burst with crisp varieties like Gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady. The timing can shift slightly each year depending on weather, but mid-fall weekends are typically prime time for families looking to enjoy the cool air, mountain views, and fresh-from-the-tree fruit.

1. Great Country Farms

Nestled in the scenic foothills of Bluemont, Virginia, Great Country Farms offers one of the most comprehensive experiences for apple picking in Virginia. This 200-acre working farm elevates a simple harvest day into a full-blown autumn festival, making it an ideal destination for families and anyone seeking more than just a trip to the orchard. The apple picking season typically runs from late August through early November, featuring a rotating selection of over 20 distinct apple varieties.

Beyond the orchard, Great Country Farms is an agritourism hub. It’s known for its extensive play areas, farm animals, and seasonal events that provide entertainment for all ages. This combination of a traditional pick-your-own farm and a family entertainment venue is what sets it apart, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each fall and earning features in publications like the Washington Post.

Why It's a Top Pick

Great Country Farms is perfect for those who want an all-day adventure. The farm’s commitment to family fun is evident in its giant jumping pillows, pedal carts, and the famous "Cow Train." During the fall, the experience is amplified with their annual Fall Festival, complete with a corn maze, pig races, and P-Rex, the pumpkin-munching dinosaur. This makes it a fantastic choice if you're looking to entertain children while getting your apple-picking fix.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

To make the most of your trip, consider these practical tips:

• Visit on a Weekday: Weekends, especially during the Fall Festival, can be very crowded. A weekday visit offers a more relaxed atmosphere and a better selection of apples.
• Arrive Early: Get there when they open to enjoy cooler temperatures and be the first to the best-looking fruit.
• Check the Ripening Schedule: Before you go, visit the Great Country Farms website to see which apple varieties are currently ripe for picking.
• Dress Appropriately: You'll be doing a lot of walking. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and consider dressing in layers as the weather can change throughout the day.

2. Marker-Miller Orchards

Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Marker-Miller Orchards in Winchester offers a more traditional and fruit-focused experience for apple picking in Northern Virginia. This expansive 400-acre family-owned farm, established in 1983, is dedicated to sustainable farming and producing high-quality fruit. Visitors can choose from over 25 varieties of apples, making it a paradise for those who appreciate the nuances between different types.

The orchard's emphasis is squarely on the harvest itself, providing a quieter, more authentic agricultural atmosphere compared to farms centered on entertainment. Marker-Miller is a respected name in Virginia agriculture, known for supplying local markets and partnering with schools for educational trips. This focus on cultivation and community provides a genuine connection to the land and the food it produces, making for a refreshingly straightforward and rewarding day trip.

Why It's a Top Pick

Marker-Miller Orchards is the ideal choice for apple purists and anyone seeking a less crowded, more intimate picking experience. If your primary goal is to gather a variety of high-quality apples directly from the tree without the hustle of a large-scale festival, this is your destination. The knowledgeable staff and serene environment allow you to focus on the simple joy of harvesting. It's also perfect for those interested in learning more about different apple varieties and their best uses, from baking pies to making sauce.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

To enhance your visit, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Call Ahead for Varieties: The apple selection changes weekly. Call before you go to confirm which types are ripe for picking.
• Don't Miss the Bakery: Their on-site bakery is famous for its fresh apple cider donuts, pies, and other homemade treats. It's a must-visit before you leave.
• Ask for Recommendations: The staff are experts. Ask them for suggestions on the best apples for eating, baking, or long-term storage.
• Visit on a Weekday: For a truly peaceful experience and more personalized attention from the staff, plan your trip for a weekday.

3. Stribling Orchard

Located in the picturesque town of Markham, Stribling Orchard offers a truly historic setting for apple picking in Northern Virginia. This family-owned farm, which has been in operation for over 200 years, provides a timeless and authentic orchard experience against the backdrop of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Spanning 30 acres, the orchard invites visitors to wander through rows of fruit trees that have been nurtured for generations, creating a serene and classic picking adventure.

Stribling Orchard focuses on a traditional, no-frills approach, allowing the beauty of the landscape and the quality of the fruit to take center stage. The season typically runs from mid-August through early November, featuring a diverse selection of apple varieties. The orchard's long-standing history and commitment to quality have made it a beloved local landmark, celebrated for its delicious apples and breathtaking views.

Why It's a Top Pick

Stribling Orchard is the ideal choice for those who appreciate history, scenery, and a peaceful picking environment. It’s perfect for couples, photographers, and families looking to escape the festival-like atmosphere of larger farms. The on-site Harvest House adds to the charm, offering fresh-baked goods, local honey, preserves, and their famous apple cider donuts. The focus here is on the simple joy of harvesting fruit directly from the tree in a beautiful, historic setting.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

To ensure a memorable and smooth experience, keep these suggestions in mind:

• Bring a Camera: The panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the orchard are spectacular, especially during the golden hours of late afternoon.
• Call Ahead for Conditions: As a historic working farm, picking conditions and fruit availability can vary. A quick call or a check of the Stribling Orchard website will ensure you know what to expect.
• Explore Beyond Apples: Depending on the season, you may also find peaches and pumpkins available for picking.
• Pack a Picnic: The orchard has several scenic picnic areas, making it a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy a meal with your freshly picked apples.

4. Westmoreland Berry Farm

Situated in historic Oak Grove, Virginia, Westmoreland Berry Farm offers a picturesque and diversified agricultural experience. While renowned for its berries, the farm also provides a charming opportunity to pick apples in Northern Virginia, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Northern Neck peninsula. This farm stands out for its commitment to sustainable farming and agricultural education, offering a more tranquil and informative alternative to larger, festival-focused venues.

Westmoreland Berry Farm's approach is centered on showcasing a variety of crops throughout the seasons. This allows visitors to see a working farm in action, with a focus on how different fruits are cultivated harmoniously. The farm has been featured in Virginia tourism publications for its scenic beauty and educational value, making it a rewarding destination for those interested in the origins of their food.

Why It's a Top Pick

Westmoreland Berry Farm is ideal for visitors seeking a peaceful day in the countryside combined with an educational twist. It’s perfect for those who appreciate seeing a diverse range of crops beyond just apples. The on-site café, serving delicious farm-fresh meals, adds a delightful culinary element to the visit. Its focus on sustainable practices also appeals to eco-conscious individuals and families who want to support responsible agriculture while enjoying a classic autumn activity.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

To ensure a great experience, keep these suggestions in mind:

• Check Seasonal Availability: Apple availability can be more limited than at apple-centric orchards. Visit the Westmoreland Berry Farm website or call ahead to confirm the apple crop status.
• Combine Your Harvest: The farm’s diverse offerings often overlap. You may be able to pick apples and another late-season fruit on the same day.
• Plan for the Drive: Located in the Northern Neck, the farm is a longer drive from the D.C. metro area, so plan accordingly and make it a full-day trip.
• Enjoy the Café: Don't miss the opportunity to have lunch or a snack at the farm's café, which features ingredients grown right on the property.

5. Rinker Orchard

For those seeking a more traditional and no-frills experience, Rinker Orchard in Stephens City offers authentic apple picking in Northern Virginia without the bustling festival atmosphere. This family-owned and operated orchard has been a local institution for generations, focusing purely on high-quality apples and a peaceful, back-to-basics farm experience. It’s a place where the fruit is the star, appealing to those who want a quiet day in the orchard focused on the harvest itself.

Rinker Orchard's charm lies in its simplicity and deep-rooted history. As a long-standing vendor at local farmers' markets and a trusted supplier to area bakeries, its reputation is built on the quality of its produce. Visitors appreciate the uncrowded rows of trees and the genuine, friendly service that comes from a family deeply connected to their land and their craft, offering a genuine taste of Virginia's agricultural heritage.

Why It's a Top Pick

Rinker Orchard is the ideal destination for purists and anyone looking to escape the commercialized side of agritourism. It’s perfect for a serene afternoon spent picking classic and heritage apple varieties directly from the tree. The focus here is entirely on the quality of the apples and the simple joy of harvesting them. This makes it a fantastic choice for serious home bakers, canners, or anyone who wants to connect with where their food comes from in a calm, authentic setting.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to this classic orchard, keep these tips in mind:

• Call Ahead: As a traditional family operation, hours and picking conditions can vary. A quick call beforehand will confirm availability and hours of operation.
• Bring Cash: While some small farms now accept cards, bringing cash is always a good idea to ensure a smooth transaction.
• Ask for Recommendations: The family knows their apples best. Don’t hesitate to ask which varieties are ideal for pies, applesauce, or eating fresh.
• Don't Miss the Cider: If their fresh-pressed apple cider is available, be sure to grab a jug. It’s a seasonal favorite that often sells out quickly.

6. Cross Keys Vineyards

Situated in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley in Mount Crawford, Cross Keys Vineyards offers a sophisticated twist on the traditional fall outing. While renowned for its award-winning wines, the estate also provides a unique opportunity for apple picking in Northern Virginia against the stunning backdrop of vineyard rows and rolling hills. This pairing creates a refined agritourism experience that appeals particularly to adults and couples looking for a scenic and relaxing day trip.

Cross Keys merges the rustic charm of an orchard with the elegance of a winery. Visitors can spend part of their day picking crisp, juicy apples before settling in for a wine tasting or a gourmet meal at the on-site bistro. This distinctive combination of agriculture and hospitality has made it a popular destination, often highlighted in wine and travel publications as a premier venue for weddings, events, and upscale rural escapes.

Why It's a Top Pick

Cross Keys Vineyards is the ideal choice for those who want to combine a classic fall activity with a more grown-up experience. It’s perfect for a date, a weekend getaway with friends, or anyone who appreciates fine wine as much as fresh-picked fruit. The ability to enjoy a tasting flight of Virginia wines just moments after leaving the apple orchard provides a memorable and elegant alternative to the more family-centric farm festivals in the region.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Book in Advance: The winery and bistro are popular, especially on weekends. Making reservations for tastings or dining is highly recommended.
• Plan Your Transportation: If you plan to participate in wine tasting, be sure to designate a sober driver for a safe return trip.
• Check the Calendar: Visit the Cross Keys Vineyards website to check their event schedule, as they often host special harvest celebrations or live music.
• Dress for the Occasion: Opt for comfortable, practical footwear for the orchard, but consider bringing a change of clothes or a smart layer if you plan to dine at their upscale bistro.

Apple Picking Sites Comparison in Northern Virginia

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Make the Most of Your Harvest

From the sprawling, family-friendly fields of Great Country Farms to the historic, rolling hills of Stribling Orchard, the journey of apple picking in Northern Virginia offers more than just fresh fruit; it’s an opportunity to create lasting autumn memories. We’ve explored a variety of destinations, each with its own distinct charm. Whether you sought the bustling market atmosphere of Marker-Miller Orchards or the serene, picturesque setting of Rinker Orchard, the perfect fall backdrop was waiting for you.

The experience doesn’t end when you leave the orchard. The true reward comes from transforming your hand-picked treasures into something delicious. Now, with bushels of apples at your disposal, the culinary adventure begins. From classic apple pies and crisps to homemade applesauce and cider, the possibilities are endless. For modern home cooks looking to make the most of their fresh apples, exploring various top recipe apps can provide endless culinary inspiration and guidance, helping you turn your harvest into unforgettable meals.

Key Takeaways for a Perfect Orchard Outing:

• Plan Ahead: Always check the orchard’s website or social media for crop availability, picking conditions, and current hours before you leave home.
• Dress Smart: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain and dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
• Pack Accordingly: Bring water, sunscreen, and a cooler to keep your freshly picked apples crisp and cool on the drive home.
• Embrace the Experience: Beyond the apples, many orchards offer hayrides, corn mazes, and farm stores. Take your time and enjoy all the seasonal activities available.

Ultimately, a successful day of apple picking in Northern Virginia is about savoring the simple pleasures of the season. It’s about the crisp autumn air, the vibrant colors of the landscape, and the satisfaction of harvesting your own food. You’ve not only gathered ingredients but also crafted a memorable experience. Now, go enjoy the fruits of your labor and the sweet taste of a day well spent.

After a wonderful day in the fields, don't let a pile of dirty clothes diminish the fun. Let Columbia Pike Laundry handle the cleanup with our convenient wash-and-fold pickup and delivery service, so you can focus on baking pies and savoring your harvest. Schedule your pickup today and keep that perfect autumn feeling going