There’s nothing that screams autumn more than spending a day apple picking. Surprisingly, this was the first year that we actually ventured out to a farm, usually we are too busy planning our next trip.
This year was different though. This year, we have a toddler and are desperate to find ways to entertain him. We also have a toddler that hates being in the car for longer than 30 minutes without having constant entertainment.
After doing some research and asking around, we started making the rounds to different farms for some apple picking fun.
Downey’s Farm
I’ll admit we didn’t actually decide to go to Downey’s to pick apples, instead we went for pumpkin-fest. The whole place is basically a fall amusement park, there is so much to do for kids!
Picking apples is one of many activities offered on the farm. They also have a section where you can feed animals, tons of jumping castles, another number of playgrounds scattered around and a delicious market / bakery.
Cost: $18 / per person over 2 years old
Drive from Toronto: 45-60 minutes depending on traffic
Carluke Orchard
With over 16 different types of apples to choose from, this orchard is worth the trip. They are open from mid-September until the end of October for picking your own apples.
This is the best orchard for those serious about apple picking. Once you’ve finished picking your apples, be sure to check out the delicious bakery with all kinds of baked goods.
Cost: $17 / 10lb bag and $33 / 20lb bag
Drive from Toronto: 60-75 minutes depending on traffic
Applewood Farm
Applewood was definitely my favourite, I was really impressed with the farm. They didn’t have a lot of the frills that Downey’s but there was still a lot to do.
There are 13 different kinds of apples to pick from. Once you’re done wandering around and picking your own apples, you can take the free tractor ride (kids are big fans) and pick your own pumpkins! Also, for those that love sunflowers, you can also wander around a sunflower farm taking pictures.
Cost: $10 admission per adult and $25 / 25lb bag
Drive from Toronto: 60-75 minutes depending on traffic
Pingle’s Farm
As Pingle’s puts it on their website, you book an experience when you enter Pingle’s farm. In the fall you can pick your own pumpkins and apples. They also have Harvest Festival in the autumn where you can partake in lots of activities like a corn maze, live music and lots of food / drink options.
Pingle’s Farm is open all year around and does have activities and things to do for all ages. In the autumn they also have the option for a “date” package which incldues admission, funnel cake, apple cider and two hot meal tickets.
Cost: $15 admission 2 years+ $24/10 lb bag
Drive from Toronto: 45-60 minutes depending on traffic
Albion Orchard
With 12 different varities of apples, Albion Orchard is another great option for apple picking. The farm is famous for their Paula Red apples which are generally available at the start of the season. Some of their trees are even 40 years old!
The best time to visit the Orchard is in October when apple picking season is in full swing. Due to the pandemic the crops are slightly more limited this year but don’t worry there will be plenty of apples to choose from! Don’t forget to go back in December to get a Christmas tree!
Cost: $20 / 10lb bag and $40 / 25lb bag
Drive from Toronto: 45-60 minutes depending on traffic
