There’s nothing quite like welcoming the fall with a nice trip to one of Georgia’s amazing apple orchards for a fun day of picking apples, enjoying nature, and so much more!
Whether you’re looking for a classic fall activity to get into the spirit, you’re in search of the perfect crunch, juicy apple, or you just want to peruse the pre-made apple treats made locally at these farm stores, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Keep scrolling to check out all the amazing local farms that are just a day trip from the ATL for all your apple picking desires!
Hillcrest Orchards, Ellijay
Hillcrest Orchards is one of the most popular apple orchards and farm markets in the state. Hillcrest is family owned and operated and has been growing apples and providing fun for children, adults and seniors since 1946.
They are open daily during the picking season, and have lots of other attractions to enjoy while you’re resting from picking apples! Watch one of their in-house bakers make an apple pie from scratch, participate in cow-milking, go zip-lining, and enjoy lots of other fun farm activities!
B.J. Reece Orchards, Ellijay
Another Ellijay gem, B.J. Reece Orchards! B.J. Reece Orchards is perfect for a day of family fun or a romantic date away from the city. Along with apple picking, they offer tons of other activities, like their petting zoo, and tempting bakery, which is open year round.
Make sure to get one of their Apple Cider Donuts, or a world famous fried apple pie!
The Folk Collaborative, McCaysville
The Folk Collaborative is a little slice of heaven, just off a country road, that prides itself on homemade treats and community. Their recipes are all passed down through the generations, and a true celebration of Appalachia.
Spend your day picking apples in the orchards, picnicking with your friends and family, eating a delicious homemade fried pie, or trying out one of their hand-crafted apothecary products. At The Folk Collaborative, you really can’t go wrong!
R&A Orchards, Ellijay
R&A Orchards is a great spot for apple picking and flower picking in the fall. They have tons of varieties of apples to choose from, based on your tastes, and a wide range of awesome products made in house!
R&A is an amazing place to stock up of fresh produce and farm shop goods. They planted their first apple trees over 70 years ago, currently boasting more than 60 acres of trees. And don’t miss out on all the good eats in the cafe!
Red Apple Barn, Ellijay
Red Apple Barn is another Ellijay apple-picking staple! At Red Apple Barn, you can participate in apple and pumpkin picking, along with a wide variety of other activities! Go the classic route and enjoy their tractor ride around the grounds, or mix it up and participate in an empowering yoga flow! There are so many events to check out at Red Apple Barn, it’s truly fun for everyone!
Mercier, Blue Ridge
- Monday – Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
- Friday – Sunday: 9 am to 6 pm
Mercier is an another amazing apple picking orchard in Georgia. Their grounds are so beautiful, making their u-pick experience one for the books! Pick apples, take a tractor ride through the orchard, or, for 21+ visitors, enjoy the hard ciders and wines, which are both made in-house.
Don’t miss out on their shop, with all of their yummy treats and alcohol available for purchase as well!
Aaron Family Orchards, Ellijay
If you’re looking for the perfect apple picking day trip, you’ve gotta check out Aaron Family Orchards! This little slice of apple pie heaven, originally known as ‘Aaron’s Apple House’, has been a cornerstone of Gilmer County since 1944!
Now, they’re a thriving apple orchard with tons of homemade apple-inspired goodies & other farm fresh treats! (Pro tip, try their Apple Cider Slushies… you’ll thank us later!)
Don’t miss out on all the fun, Atlanta! Head to one of these amazing farms for an apple picking day trip!