The air feels crisp, and the leaves are officially changing color. That can only mean one thing…Autumn is officially here! My favorite fall activity to do with my family is to go apple picking. Apple farms are exceptional for family outings or can be used as a good idea for a romantic date. They are of great inspiration and use if you are into canning, baking, or crafting. Apple farms can be used as cheap and beautiful backdrops for family photos, selfies or even wedding and maternity shoots. Just a little something to keep in mind as we get ready to dust off those cute boots from last year.

Fuji, Gala, Red Delicious, Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Washington or whatever your favorite apple is you can find them on a picturesque farm in Georgia. Here in Georgia we have multiple locations to pick these sweet, mouthwatering, delicious fruits. So let’s get into it.

1. Red Apple Barn

3379 Tails Creek Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540 -click on addresses of each farm to be taken to their site

Red Apple Barn is definitely a fan favorite. Red apple barn is sectioned off for the different varieties of apples that they grow here. When you arrive they tell you which apples are currently best for picking. For the price of admission you are able to take a safe ride on their wagon up to the orchard to pick the apples as well as a cold cup of apple cider and a delicious apple cider flavored sugar donut. They do charge an additional fee for the bags or baskets of apples but the total charge is very reasonable for the experience.

One of the cool things that the orchard has are the cute horses and donkey that you are able to feed with some of the small apples you pick. They are always hungry and I personally think their diet only consists of apples from all of the children and adults pushing apples in their faces (in a good way of course). Red Apple Barn also offers pumpkin picking, pumpkin painting, a playground for the kids and a small picnic area to utilize.

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2. Hillcrest Orchards

 9696 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536

Hillcrest Orchards is a remarkable farm with plenty to keep your loved ones entertained. As if the apple picking isn’t an enjoyable experience in itself this farm also offers an abundance of thrilling family packed activities. For instance, their jumping pillow allows for your kids to jump until their little hearts get tired. There is an apple and corn maze on the farm for the mini tripper in your group which is sure to please. The petting zoo they have is unlike any I have ever seen. You are actually allowed to get up close and personal with the animals and these animals are so cute and ready for your affection. There is always something going on at Hillcrest so be prepared for fun and excitement when you visit.

The activities are great but the food is better! Do not forget to visit the market for some of their homemade apple fritters and ice cream. They offer a good variety of bakery items made fresh in-house daily. You are able to see the homemade goods being prepared right in front of you through a big window in their cafe. Don’t forget to take home some of their fruit butters, jellies, and sauces.

3. Mercier Orchards

8660 Blue Ridge Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Mercier Orchards not only offers a u-pick apple experience but a well versed guided tour of the farm to accompany it. While there enjoy the absolutely breathtaking views of the lake and orchard. The grounds of Mercier are so stunning that they have been known to hold a beautiful wedding ceremony or two. I will say that Mercier possesses more of a romantic feel than that of a family atmosphere, not to say that this is not a family location. The market here not only contains the usual jams and jellies and sweet treats like the others but what sets them apart is their appreciable selection of wine which is brewed directly from their own harvest. The orchard hosts educational wine tasting experiences and hard apple cider events so be sure to check their website for their schedule.

4. B.J Reece Apple Orchard

9131 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536

B.J. Reece has the best views of an apple orchard that I have ever seen. There is nothing like a beautiful fall day overlooking the beautiful mountains of Ellijay, GA. Out of all of the farms I will definitely say this farm excels in picture perfect views for selfies and photo shoots. Their property is so well maintained that it makes you want to whip out your camera and snap away. “Reece” offers 80 different varieties of apples, peaches and melons on their premises. You can find a nice, little petting zoo that is filled with cute, docile animals for your enjoyment on the farm. “Reece” offers a nice range of delectable eats. While there do not forget to try their apple inspired bakes as well.

5. C&C Mountain View Orchard Cafe and Market

2984 Mobile Rd. McCaysville, GA

What can I say about Mountain view other than it is absolutely beautiful. It is the type of place that if you weren’t looking really hard you would probably pass it. It is unquestionably a hidden gem in McCaysville, GA. The cider here is what makes you keep coming back for more, and more, and more. Their cafe definitely has some good homemade eats. Mountain View is geared more towards keeping their orchards clean and providing their customers with a family-friendly atmosphere. You can truly feel the love at this budding orchard. If you are looking for peace and serenity during your apple picking encounter then Mountain view is the place for you.

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