Perched high above Charlottesville, Carter Mountain Orchard is a fall favorite with breathtaking views and plenty of family fun. You can pick your own apples in the orchard or stop by the country store for pre-picked fruit. Don’t leave without trying their famous apple cider donuts and refreshing apple cider slushies. Starting September 13, 2025, weekend visits require a ticket, so plan ahead. Bonus: pumpkins, crafts, and seasonal treats make it a true fall destination.

Graves Mountain Lodge – Syria, VA

205 Graves Mountain Lane, Syria, VA 22743

Graves Mountain Lodge turns apple season into a full-blown festival. During their annual Apple Harvest Festival, you can stroll through the orchards to pick your own apples, then stay for pony rides, hayrides, a petting zoo, hay maze, and even a pumpkin patch. It’s the perfect place to make fall memories with kids while enjoying the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Great Country Farms – Bluemont, VA

34345 Snickersville Turnpike, Bluemont, VA 20135

At Great Country Farms, apple picking is just the beginning. Hop on a wagon ride out to the orchards to gather your fruit, then explore all the farm fun this spot has to offer. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Great Country Farms pairs apple picking with seasonal events, games, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Hartland Orchard – Markham, VA

3064 Hartland Lane, Markham, VA 22543

Hartland Orchard is a more traditional, no-frills apple picking experience—and that’s exactly why people love it. Grab a basket, wander the rows of apple trees, and fill up on farm-fresh goodness. Be sure to bring cash or a check, as cards aren’t accepted here. Sometimes, the simplest experiences are the sweetest.

Stribling Orchard – Markham, VA

11587 Poverty Hollow Lane, Markham, VA 22643

With more than 200 years of history, Stribling Orchard is a timeless favorite. Families can pick their own apples, say hello to the farm animals, and enjoy a picnic with mountain views. Don’t miss their bakery, where you’ll find fresh cider, pies, local honey, and other homemade treats that capture the flavors of fall.

Apple picking season around Fredericksburg is more than just an outing—it’s an experience filled with tradition, flavor, and family fun. Whether you want a simple orchard stroll or a festival-style celebration, these local farms offer something for everyone. So grab a basket, pack your flannel, and get ready to bite into the sweetest taste of autumn.