DeKalb Times

Illinois is home to an array of apple orchards that offer a delicious harvest and fun-filled adventures for the whole family. Across the state, orchards open their gates to visitors eager to enjoy crisp autumn days filled with apple picking, hayrides, and tasty treats.

Illinois’ apple orchards are a significant part of the state’s agricultural landscape. With over 1,000 acres dedicated to apple orchards, Illinois ranks among the top 25 apple-producing states in the country. Popular varieties grown across the state include Honeycrisp, Gala, and Jonathan, which thrive in the state’s fertile soil and temperate climate.

Starting in northern Illinois, Royal Oak Farm Orchard in Harvard is a standout. Boasting over 17,000 apple trees with more than 30 varieties, this orchard is known for its expansive grounds and unique features like the Apple Tree Maze. With activities like a carousel and fresh cider donuts, it’s an ideal destination for families looking for a full day of fun.

Heading to central Illinois, Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch in Champaign is a must-visit. Known for its free admission, this orchard lets visitors enjoy apple picking alongside homemade meals at the Flying Monkey Cafe. From late August through December, families can take in the orchard’s charm, complete with a pumpkin patch and delicious apple treats.

In southern Illinois, Rendleman Orchards in Alto Pass offers an unforgettable experience nestled in the Shawnee National Forest. Known for its picturesque setting, this orchard allows families to pick apples while exploring the beauty of the region. Rendleman also features farm-fresh products like jams, jellies, and cider, making it a perfect spot to stock up on fall favorites.

For those in the western part of the state, Tanners Orchard in Speer has been a family tradition since 1947. This orchard spans over 80 acres and offers 11,000 apple trees to pick from. Families can enjoy wagon rides, a corn maze, and the ever-popular Apple Bin Bakery, famous for its apple cider donuts and freshly baked pies.

Here are some other notable Apple Orchards across the state:

In Woodstock, All Seasons Apple Orchard is a must-visit for those in McHenry County. This family-owned orchard boasts more than 15,000 trees and 12 apple varieties including favorites like Honeycrisp and Fuji. Beyond apple picking, the orchard offers a 10-acre corn maze, barnyard animals, and their famous freshly made apple cider donuts. A family-friendly atmosphere All Seasons also features a pumpkin patch and activities like wagon rides petting zoo even pig races.

Another hidden gem in northern Illinois is Edwards Apple Orchard in Winnebago. This orchard has been family-run for decades and is known for its cozy community-focused vibe. Alongside apple picking Edwards offers delightful range homemade products including butter pies famous cider donuts Visitors can also stop by farm historic barn now shop filled unique local goods

In Calhoun County Ringhausen Apple House offers charming rustic experience heart Great Rivers Country fifth-generation family farm grows variety apples provides fresh-pressed cider baked goods popular spot families looking experience beauty rural indulging seasonal treats

Whether you’re seeking weekend getaway or simply looking enjoy fresh air crisp Illinois offer something everyone With across each visit bring own special memories making treasured fall tradition Learn more explore

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