Fall in New Jersey is apple-picking season. Crisp air, fresh apples straight from the tree, hayrides, cider donuts, corn mazes, and full-on family farm vibes. The Garden State has some of the best U-pick orchards in the Northeast, with dozens of apple varieties and activities for every age.
Here’s our updated 2026 guide to the 20 best apple-picking orchards in New Jersey, ranked by variety, farm experience, scenery, and local favorites.
Pro tip: Go mid-week or early in the season for the best selection and fewer crowds. Always check farm websites before you go. Apple varieties ripen at different times.
The 20 Best Apple Picking Orchards in New Jersey
Alstede Farms – Chester
40+ apple varieties, hayrides, corn maze, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, and full fall festival weekends.
Demarest Farms – Hillsdale
Pick-your-own apples, hayrides, petting zoo, and family-friendly fall events.
Wightman’s Farms – Morristown
Classic orchard with hayrides to the fields and famous cider donuts.
Terhune Orchards – Princeton
35+ varieties on 200 acres. Pony rides, corn maze, live music, and a great farm store.
Melick’s Town Farm – Oldwick / Califon
Multiple locations, historic charm, cider mill, and scenic rolling hills.
Battleview Orchards – Freehold
One of NJ’s oldest orchards (since 1908). Reliable picking and legendary pies.
Riamede Farm – Chester
Old-school, no-frills apple picking with beautiful hills and quiet vibes.
VonThun Farms – Monmouth Junction
Hayrides, corn maze, pumpkin slingshot, and a lively fall atmosphere.
Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm – Jobstown
Historic Burlington County farm with seasonal events and apple picking.
Eastmont Orchards – Colts Neck
Peaceful orchard with apples, pumpkins, and homemade treats.
Sun High Orchard – Randolph
Apples, peaches, pumpkins, and classic fall activities.
Mackey’s Orchard – Belvidere
Scenic northwest NJ orchard with great views and a farm market.
Ort Farms – Long Valley
Apple picking plus train rides, corn maze, and big kid-friendly attractions.
Abma’s Farm – Wyckoff
Pick-your-own apples, barnyard animals, greenhouse, and bakery items.
Heaven Hill Farm – Vernon
Huge fall festival energy with apples, maze, food trucks, and mountain views.
Giamarese Farm – East Brunswick
Solid apple picking, hayrides, and a well-stocked farm market.
Hillview Farms – Gillette
Family-friendly orchard known for apples and cider donuts.
Stony Hill Farms – Chester
Corn maze, corn cannon, apple picking, and fall games.
Happy Day Farm – Manalapan
Festival-style orchard with sunflower fields, maze, and photo ops.
Farms View – Wayne
Roadside stand, apple picking, and classic fall snacks.
Why Apple Picking Is Classic New Jersey Fall
Apple picking in NJ isn’t just about fruit. It’s about traditions. Pies, school lunches, fall photos, and weekends that feel like fall is supposed to feel. Many orchards pair apple season with pumpkin patches and corn mazes, making it easy to turn a quick stop into a full day.
Pro tip: Bring reusable bags and some cash for extras. Pair your trip with a fall foliage drive for a perfect Jersey autumn day.
What’s your favorite NJ orchard or apple variety? Drop it in the comments.
