Massachusetts takes fall seriously. Think corn mazes with new designs each year, hayrides out to pumpkin patches, and cider donuts that seem to show up at nearly every stop.
One orchard in this state is home to the oldest commercially planted McIntosh tree, and it went into the ground back in 1912. I love that a single apple tree can carry that much history.
That same farm sits about 1,250 feet up in the hills. Another spot on this list grows more than 100 apple varieties, which sounds less like an orchard and more like a library.
It is a perfect excuse for a long drive with the windows cracked. So which farm will earn a spot on your weekend plans first?
1. Red Apple Farm
A McIntosh tree planted in 1912 still calls this hilltop home. It’s known as the oldest commercially planted McIntosh tree, which gives your apple picking some serious bragging rights.
The farm sits about 1,250 feet up in Phillipston. It has been a dedicated apple farm since 1912, and the Rose family took over in 1929.
You can pick from more than 50 apple varieties, including McIntosh, Gala, Macoun, and Cortland. In fall, pumpkins join the lineup too.
Then comes the farm store, home of apple cider donuts made daily and tossed in cinnamon sugar. Gluten-free and raspberry glazed versions are on the menu as well.
Pies range from apple and pumpkin to cherry and peach. Homemade fudge, homemade peanut butter, kettle corn, and local honey may tempt you, too.
Kids can meet goats, sheep, pigs, and donkeys. Chickens roam freely, which feels very on brand for a farm.
Want to walk off those donuts? The 7-mile Red Apple Trail offers hiking, and disc golf is another option.
Seasonal festivals keep the calendar busy, including a Pumpkin Festival and a Thanksgiving Harvest Festival. Admission and parking are free.
Address: 455 Highland Ave, Phillipston, MA 01331
2. Carlson Orchards, Inc
Since 1936, this fruit farm has been growing up on the hills of Harvard. Today the second and third generations keep those family traditions going.
That’s nearly 90 years of knowing exactly when an apple is ready. Pretty good credentials for a fall outing.
Apples take center stage in autumn. Earlier in the year, the farm also grows cherries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, and nectarines.
The family is proud of its cider, too. They say they make some of the best around, and that’s a bold claim to test.
The grounds roll gently across the hillside. It’s the kind of view that makes you slow down between trees.
Picnics under the orchard canopy are a big part of the appeal. Pack a blanket and turn your apple run into a whole afternoon.
The farm hosts seasonal festivals and events throughout the year. Fall picking fits right into that lineup.
There’s a food and cider tap room on site as well. You’ll find a spot to refuel after hauling your apples.
Hours run daily from morning to early evening. That gives you room for a slow, unhurried visit.
Harvard sits in a pretty part of Massachusetts orchard country. Make a day of exploring the area.
Address: 115 Oak Hill Rd, Harvard, MA 01451
3. Bartlett’s Orchard
Berkshire hills fill the horizon at this Richmond orchard. Honestly, the view might distract you from the apples for a minute.
Bartlett’s is a family-run orchard and produce market. It sits out in the western part of Massachusetts, where fall color tends to show off.
Pick-your-own apples are the main event in autumn. Flowers are also part of the picking scene here.
Back at the market, signature cider donuts wait for you. Pair one with a cup of cider and you’ve got a classic fall snack.
Fresh baked sweets join the lineup too. It’s tough to leave with just one bag of something.
Produce is a big strength here. Stock up on seasonal fruits and vegetables before heading home.
Early birds have an advantage. The stand opens at 7 AM on weekdays and 8 AM on weekends.
Saturdays tend to bring the biggest crowds. Weekday mornings are usually quieter if you like more elbow room.
This one works well as a quick stop. It’s also a fine excuse for a scenic drive through the Berkshires.
Bring a jacket, since hill country air can feel brisk. Then grab another donut to warm up.
Address: 575 Swamp Rd, Richmond, MA 01254
4. Brookfield Orchards
Apple dumplings don’t get nearly enough attention. At this North Brookfield orchard, they share shelf space with apple pie and apple crisp.
That’s a lot of apple in one place, and nobody’s complaining. Cider donuts round out the sweet lineup.
You can pick apples straight from the orchard trees. Prefer to skip the ladder work?
Apples are also sold in the store.
The setting is quiet and pretty. It feels like a true country drive out in central Massachusetts.
The orchard opens daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. That makes it easy to fit into a weekday or weekend.
Here’s a fun perk for pet owners. Dogs are allowed inside, so your furry co-pilot doesn’t have to wait in the car.
The prices have a reputation for being fair. That leaves more room in the budget for an extra pie.
Plan your visit around a bakery haul. Apple crisp travels well, and dumplings make a great dessert that night.
The crew here is known for being friendly. It adds a nice small-town touch to your trip.
Bring a cooler bag for treats. You’ll probably need it.
Address: 12 Lincoln Rd, North Brookfield, MA 01535
5. Sauchuk’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
Back in 2007, this farm opened the first large-scale corn maze south of Boston. Getting lost has been a local tradition ever since.
The maze covers seven acres. Best part?
The design changes each year, so returning visitors can’t cheat.
Nearly 50 activities fill the Farm Fun Center. Think two jumping pillows, a log playground, a cow train, and a carousel.
A Barnyard Arcade brings Skee Ball to the farm. Apple Blasters and a Candy Cannon cost extra, but they sound worth it.
Hayrides carry you to the pumpkin patch and apple picking areas. That means less walking and more picking.
Hungry? The Barnyard Grill and food trucks keep fuel on hand.
The farm sits on the old Samson Homestead, farmed since the early 1700s. It was once home to Deborah Sampson, a Revolutionary War hero.
The fun center runs on weekends in fall, plus Columbus Day. Buy tickets in advance before you go.
Plan for a full day, especially with kids. Between the maze and the games, the hours fly.
Wear sneakers you don’t mind dusting up. Corn mazes aren’t known for clean shoes.
Address: 200 Center St, Plympton, MA 02367
6. Connors Farm
Few farms come with their own railroad. Connors Farm in Danvers has the Putnamville Railroad, and that alone might win over your kids.
Fall here is packed. The lineup includes a corn maze, apple picking, and pumpkin picking.
Games and tractors are spread across the grounds. You’ll find something new around nearly every corner.
Got older thrill seekers in the group? The Haunted Corn Field adds a spooky twist to the season.
A farmers market keeps things practical. Grab fresh produce for the week while everyone else looks for pumpkins.
Food is part of the experience too. Nobody has to go hungry between the maze and the patch.
Danvers sits on the North Shore, an easy drive from many towns. It’s a smart pick when you want lots of fun without hours on the road.
This farm also hosts a Strawberry Festival earlier in the year. So you might find yourself coming back next summer.
Pick your pumpkin, then pick your path through the maze. Just remember where you parked.
Address: 30 Valley Rd, Danvers, MA 01923
7. Shelburne Farm
More than 100 apple varieties grow here, beyond the headliners. Honeycrisp, Evercrisp, McIntosh, and Macoun are just the famous names on the roster.
That makes picking day a bit like a taste test. You might walk in for one favorite and leave with three new ones.
The orchards and farm stand open every day in season. Besides apples, you can pick peaches, Asian pears, and pumpkins.
Getting to the trees is an easy walk up from the farm area. That’s handy if you’re carrying a toddler or a stack of empty bags.
Inside the apple shop, cider donuts are made fresh. Homemade pies line the farm store, so dessert planning takes care of itself.
Kids get plenty to do here. Hayrides roll through the property, and farm animals wait nearby, including goats you can feed.
Farm-themed play areas sit right in the orchard. Live music adds a little soundtrack to the afternoon.
The rustic barn gives the grounds a classic New England look. Bring a camera, because your fall photos will thank you.
Weekend hours stretch a bit later than weekdays. Plan accordingly if you want that golden late-day light.
Address: 106 W Acton Rd, Stow, MA 01775
8. Smolak Farms
Llamas, alpacas, and goats greet you at the Animal Playground. It’s open daily, and yes, animal feeding is on the menu.
Smolak Farms has deep roots in North Andover. The current family bought the farm in 1927.
In 1982, 107 of its 160 acres were preserved through a state agricultural program. That means these fields should stay fields.
Fall brings pick-your-own pumpkins. Hop-on hayrides and cow train rides keep the little ones grinning.
Pumpkin decorating and face painting add more fun. These activities usually run from 10 AM to 3 PM.
The farm stand opened in 1985 along with the bakery. Cider donuts are the big draw here.
You’ll also find pies, apple crisp, coffee, and meals to go. Mac, Gala, and Cortland apples fill the produce bins.
Here’s a clever twist. Cider donut ice cream exists here, so your two favorite treats can share a cone.
Live music often shows up on festival weekends. It adds a fun buzz to the day.
The farm stand opens at 7 AM. Early risers can beat the crowd and grab donuts warm.
Address: 315 S Bradford St, North Andover, MA 01845
9. Tougas Family Farm
Newsweek once named this Northborough spot the top pick-your-own fruit farm in the country. That’s a big title for a family farm.
It started in 1981 with 53 acres of peach and apple orchards. Today, the founders’ son keeps the family story going.
Apple season here is serious. More than 30 varieties grow on the farm, including Honeycrisp, Macoun, and Fuji.
The pumpkin patch offers a wide selection too. Check the farm’s daily picking updates before you leave home.
Inside the farm store, cider donuts lead the bakery lineup. Seasonal versions include pumpkin, which feels very fitting for fall.
Apple dumplings, fruit crisps, and scones are also tempting. Ever had an apple cider donut ice cream sandwich?
Now’s your chance.
The Farm Kitchen handles lunch. Options include a cranberry walnut chicken salad sandwich and mac and cheese.
Kids can visit goats, guinea fowl, and an alpaca. A farm-themed playground and wagon rides add more fun.
The Donut Hut opens on weekends. Picnic tables help you enjoy your treats outside.
Plan for half a day or more. It’s easy to lose track of time here.
Address: 234 Ball St, Northborough, MA 01532
10. Marini Farm Stand
Ipswich is famous for its coastline, but Marini Farm proves the town knows its way around a field too. This family-run market mixes produce with plenty of play.
Fresh vegetables and fruits fill the stand. Baked goods sit alongside them, ready to tempt you.
Apple cider is a standout here. Grab a jug for the ride home, or just sip it right away.
Fall means a corn maze. Kids can also climb on the play equipment while grownups catch their breath.
Hayrides are part of the seasonal fun. Rolling across the farm by tractor feels like the most fitting way to see it.
Earlier in the year, the farm offers pick-your-own strawberries. Cut-your-own flowers come straight from the field too.
The stand stays open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. That’s handy for a late afternoon visit after a beach walk.
Saturdays and Sunday afternoons tend to be busiest. Weekday mornings are calmer if you want space.
Free wi-fi is available at the stand. Not that you’ll need it with all that open sky.
Bring a big tote for produce. The baked goods will need room too.
Address: 259 Linebrook Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938
11. Bolton Spring Farm
Two sides of the road, two kinds of fun. The farm store and cafe sit on one side, while the orchard and pumpkin patch wait across the way.
Bolton Spring Farm is family-owned. It’s a classic stop in this part of Massachusetts.
Pick-your-own apples are the big draw. Wander the orchard rows and you’ll get a mini hike out of it.
The pumpkin and gourd patch adds color to your haul. Those funky gourds make great table decorations.
Back at the store, cider donuts are a must. A warm drink pairs nicely if the air turns crisp.
Apple cider is on the shelves too. You’ll also find baked pies and frozen pies to bake later at home.
The store has plenty of other fall goodies. It’s hard to leave with only what you planned.
Weekend hours start at 9 AM. On weekdays, doors open at 10 AM.
Saturday afternoons tend to be busiest. Visit during the week for a calmer stroll.
This one works as a quick stop or an easy afternoon. Either way, you’ll head home smelling like cinnamon.
Address: 159 Main St, Bolton, MA 01740
