As the cool autumn weather sets in, a delightful way to celebrate the season is by visiting a nearby apple orchard or pumpkin patch. These locations offer the opportunity to hand-pick fresh fruits for baking, select the perfect gourd for Halloween decorations, and capture charming photos amid the orchards and fields. Many farms also feature additional attractions like corn mazes, petting zoos, and wagon rides, making them ideal destinations for families and those on a budget.
Apple picking season typically spans from late August to October, while pumpkins are usually available starting in mid-September. It is advisable to check the farm’s website and social media for the most recent information on fruit availability, especially if you have specific preferences.
Here are 10 picturesque spots across Canada to explore this fall:
1. **Ferme Genest** in Lévis, Quebec, offers vast pumpkin fields and a variety of apple orchards just a short drive from Quebec City. Visitors can enjoy the farm’s animals, playground, and purchase artisanal snacks.
2. **Dixie Orchards** in Inglewood, Ontario, located near Toronto, provides access to activities like corn mazes and tractor rides. The farm features over three hectares of pumpkins, squash, and 18 different apple types, including unique varieties like Bubblegum and Macoun.
3. **Prairie Gardens** in Bon Accord, Alberta, close to Edmonton, offers potato, apple, and pumpkin picking on its expansive 14-hectare property. The farm showcases a wide array of pumpkin varieties, including Grey Ghost and Sugar Pie, and hosts farm-to-table dining experiences.
4. **Davison Orchards** in Vernon, British Columbia, is a family-friendly farm where visitors can pick apples, pumpkins, and spaghetti squash. The farm features tractor tours of the apple orchard, interactions with farm animals, and a play area for children.
5. **RiverBreeze Farm** in Upper Onslow, Nova Scotia, presents various fall events, including a festival running from late September to early November. Activities include pumpkin picking, corn maze challenges, and the opportunity to meet kangaroos.
6. **Verger Belliveau Orchard** in Memramcook, New Brunswick, boasts over 110,000 apple trees with 20 apple varieties available for picking. Visitors can sample cider and wines, enjoy live music, and savor food truck offerings on select dates.
7. **Lester’s Farm Market** in St. John’s, Newfoundland, features a diverse selection of fruits and vegetables, including numerous pumpkin varieties. The farm hosts seasonal events like Pumpkinfest and a farm haunt for added entertainment.
8. **Belvedere Orchard** in Brookfield, Prince Edward Island, offers stunning views, more than 10,000 fruit trees, and a range of apple varieties. Visitors can pick favorites like Gala and Honeycrisp along with unique options such as Cox’s Orange Pippin.
9. **Albion Orchards** in Caledon, Ontario, near Toronto, provides apple and pumpkin picking opportunities, along with a country store selling fresh pies, honey, and apple cider. The farm is conveniently located near scenic leaf-peeping spots for a complete fall experience.
10. **Robertson Valley Farm** in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, offers a variety of pre-picked and pick-your-own pumpkins in different colors and shapes. With staff assistance, visitors can choose from the farm’s diverse selection of pumpkins. (Note: Robertson Valley Farm plans to open for the season in late September; it is recommended to confirm their operational hours before visiting.)
Celebrate the autumn season by exploring these charming farms across Canada for a memorable and festive experience.