Where to Go Apple Picking Nearby

When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a visit to an apple orchard. Apple picking is one of the Midwest’s most beloved fall activities—whether you’re planning a family outing, a date-day escape, or a scenic road trip. If you’re searching for where to go apple picking nearby, Eckert’s Farms offers the ultimate autumn experience.

What Makes a Great Apple Picking Experience?

A trip to the orchard isn’t just about filling your bag—it’s about making memories. The best apple picking spots combine beautiful views, fresh produce, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re looking for specific apple varieties, a place to enjoy cider and donuts, or fall activities like hayrides and fall fun, a well-rounded orchard experience makes all the difference.

The Top Apple Picking Destination in the Midwest

Eckert’s is proud to be one of the largest and most-loved apple picking farms in the Midwest. With convenient locations in Belleville, Grafton and Millstadt, Illinois and Versailles, Kentucky, we welcome visitors from St. Louis, Southern Illinois, Central Kentucky, and beyond to enjoy the magic of the harvest season.

Here’s why Eckert’s is your go-to spot for apple picking:

Convenient Locations Close to the City

Our Belleville farm is just 30 minutes from downtown St. Louis, and our Versailles orchard is a quick 20-minute drive from Lexington. That means less time in the car and more time making memories.

A Wide Variety of Apples

We grow over a dozen apple varieties throughout the season, including favorites like:

• Honeycrisp

• Jonathan

• Fuji

• Gala

• Granny Smith

• Jonagold

Each variety ripens at a different time, so there’s always something new to enjoy from early August through October.

Pick-Your-Own Tradition

At Eckert’s, we’ve made apple picking an experience to remember. Hop on a tractor-pulled wagon to the orchard, pick apples at your own pace, and take in the views of our working family farm. Our team is always available to help you identify varieties and find the ripest fruit.

Farm Fun for All Ages

Apple picking is just the beginning. Depending on your location and timing, you can also enjoy:

• Live music and seasonal festivals

• Kids’ attractions like petting zoos and playgrounds

• Fall treats like cider donuts, kettle corn, and fresh-pressed apple cider

• Hard cider flights and seasonal cocktails at Eckert’s Illinois locations (for guests 21+)

Farm Store and Bakery

Don’t forget to stop by our Country Store and bakery for homemade pies, jams, caramel apples, apple butter, and more—all made with fresh apples.

Why People Choose Eckert’s Year After Year

While there are many orchards throughout the region, families return to Eckert’s because we offer more than just apples—we offer a full fall experience. With decades of farming tradition, a strong community connection, and plenty of activities to make the day special, Eckert’s is a place where memories are made.

Plan Your Visit

Our apple picking season typically begins in early August and continues through late October, though timing can vary slightly each year depending on the weather. We recommend checking our Crop Update page for current availability and variety schedules before your visit.

Visit One of Our Locations:

• Eckert’s Belleville Farm – 951 South Green Mount Road, Belleville, IL 62220

• Eckert’s Grafton Farm – 20995 Eckert Orchard Road, Grafton, IL 62037

• Eckert’s Versailles Orchard – 1396 Pinckard Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

Whether you’re traveling from St. Louis, Edwardsville, Paducah, Lexington, or Louisville, there’s an Eckert’s orchard just a short drive away.

Ready to Pick Your Perfect Apple?
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of apple season at Eckert’s. Pick your own, enjoy the food, sip some cider, and spend the day surrounded by fall beauty. We can’t wait to welcome you to the farm.

Learn more or reserve your field access at www.eckerts.com