What’s better than a freshly picked, perfectly ripe, locally grown apple? (Maybe a fresh-from-the-oven apple pie?) And with apple varieties ripening soon, it’s a great time to try out your favorite fall recipes. Use this apple orchards guide to help plan a perfect autumn’s day and maybe a perfect meal too.
Here’s our Apple Orchard and U-Pick Guide. Pick one and start a new family tradition this fall!
*Don’t forget that most farms only accept cash or check, so call ahead to confirm!
A&M Farm Orchard
A&M is one of the closer U-Pick orchards in Cincinnati, especially if you’re on the East Side. This beloved family farm boasts apples all season long, starting with Early Blaze and Galas. 22141 State Route 251, Midland, OH 45148, 513-875-2500
Apple Country Farm Market
This wonderful place is family-owned and operated business that offers a unique experience the whole family can enjoy. Follow along on Facebook for u-pick updates. Whether you’re looking for fresh home-grown fruits and vegetables, seasonal farm market products such as pumpkins and gourds, straw bales, or unique craft items, this Ohio farm has it all. 2323 U.S. Route 42, Spring Valley, OH. 937-862-4376
Brumbaugh Fruit and Fun Farm
It’s no misnomer — this fruit farm is loads of fun! Brumbaugh Fruit and Fun Farm specializes in class field trips and group outings, as its apple and pumpkin orchards offer guests the full farm experience. At Brumbaugh’s Johnny Appleseed Hiking Trails, you’ll get an up-close look at the many varieties of apples they grow. Find the latest happenings and events on Brumbaugh’s Facebook page. 6420 Arcanum-Hollansburg Road, Arcanum, OH 45304, 937-692-8084
Hidden Valley Orchards
Hidden Valley Orchards offer a variety of U-PICK crops. These crops are evaluated daily for public picking availability. Watch for updates on social media or call the HVO Market to confirm hours and available produce for U-PICK before heading to the farm. 5474 N. State Road 48, Lebanon, 513-932-1869
Hollmeyers Orchard
Irons Fruit Farm
Located in Lebanon, Irons Fruit Farm has the largest selection of apples around. Depending on when you go, you’ll choose from McIntosh, Red Delicious, Gold Delicious, Jonathan, Melrose and Stayman Winesap varieties.  1640 Stubbs Mills Rd, Lebanon, OH 45036, 513-932-2853
Karnes Orchard
This family-owned farm boasts an impressive selection of apples, including several heirloom varieties and honeycrisp! Get the scoop on apple availability here. 8200 Worley Mill Road, Hillsboro, OH 45133, 740-239-3007
McGlasson Farms
This Kentucky farm stand sells some of the most picturesque, pre-picked produce in town; however, be sure to check McGlassen’s Facebook page for special U-Pick opportunities throughout the season, usually starting in September. 5832 River Road, Hebron, KY 41048, 859-689-5229
Monnin’s Fruit Farm
Monnin’s offers over 20 varieties of apples to pick — go green and bring your own containers! Follow them on Facebook to stay up-to-date on the various U-pick schedules. 8201 Frederick Pike, Dayton, OH 45414, 937-890-4536
Peifer Orchards
U-Pick apples begin in September and run through October. Orchard will be open for U-Pick on most Saturdays and Sundays. Apple varieties available for pick-your-own will be updated through the Crop Report weekly. Subscribe to our e-mailing list to have the Crop Report sent directly to your email each week during the season. For updates on u-pick dates please check their website or join their mailing list. 4590 US 68 N.Yellow Springs, OH, 937-767-2208
Tüken’s Orchard & Farm Market
Tüken’s is Cincinnati’s U-Pick destination for all the fruits of the rainbow: apples, strawberries, cherries, plums, blackberries and peaches. There’s also a free petting zoo and farm market. Check Facebook for U-Pick hours and updates. 15725 Eaton Pike, West Alexandria, OH 45381, 937-687-3848
Pringles Orchard
The orchard at Pringles offers many varieties of fresh apples for fall baking and snacking. U-Pick usually begins towards the middle to end of September, follow along on their socials for updates. 2697 Pringle Road, Goshen OH 513-625-9866
We highly recommend you call before you go, as weather and crowds can affect U-Pick conditions and hours. With most of these orchards on social media, be sure to also check those outlets for pictures and updates, too!