Lancaster County’s Best Spots for Apple Picking & Farm Tours (2025)
Planning a classic Lancaster fall day? Here’s a simple guide to the best pick-your-own apple orchards and family farm tours—plus what to bring, when to go, and a few easy day-trip itineraries.
When Is Apple Season in Lancaster County?
Apple season typically runs from late August through mid-November. Early varieties start in late August; most snacking and baking favorites peak in late September and October. Always check each farm’s website or social media the morning you go—hours and availability change with weather and crop conditions.
Top Pick-Your-Own Orchards
Cherry Hill Orchards (South Lancaster City)
Why go: Closest full PYO orchard to Lancaster City with a large variety selection and a year-round farm market.
Quick facts: 400 Long Lane, Lancaster, PA 17603. PYO hours change seasonally—verify before you go.
Tip: Arrive early on peak weekends and review their variety ripening list so you hit your favorites at the right time.
Kauffman Orchards (Ronks / Bird-in-Hand)
Why go: Two convenient check-in locations, clear signage, and a day-of info hotline.
Quick facts: East Check-in: 48 S Harvest Rd; West Check-in: 53 S Weavertown Rd, Ronks, PA. Apples generally August–October.
Tip: Call the hotline the morning of your trip for ripeness and weather updates. As of 2025, posted PYO pricing is often per container (for example, a peck or half-bushel). Confirm day-of.
Masonic Village Orchard & Farm Market (Elizabethtown)
Why go: Scenic hilltop orchard with PYO apples and pumpkins, plus a market and seasonal café.
Quick facts: Typical PYO days run Thu–Sun in season; no pets allowed in orchard or market.
Tip: They grow dozens of varieties and are well known for fresh apple cider—worth a post-picking taste.
Brecknock Orchard (Mohnton, just over the county line)
Why go: A longtime favorite for Lancaster families with 30+ apple varieties and a longer picking window.
Quick facts: PYO usually runs August through mid-November; no reservations needed; pay by pound or container.
Tip: Check the harvest update page each week—different apples peak at different times.
Farm Tours & Fall Experiences (Beyond Picking)
Old Windmill Farm (Ronks)
Hands-on tours of a working Amish farm. Expect bottle-feeding calves, milking a cow, gathering eggs, and seasonal add-ons like cider pressing.
Typical tour: About 60 minutes, small group format. Check their site for current pricing and options.
Oregon Dairy (Lititz)
A local staple with fall weekends featuring a corn maze, rides, and family activities.
Note: Seasonal hours and special event dates change annually—review their calendar before you go.
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm (Ronks)
Famous corn maze and packed fall festival schedule with weekend activities, food, and games.
Note: They host themed weekends—scan their events page for what’s happening when you visit.
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum (Lancaster)
Living-history museum with Pennsylvania-German farm life demonstrations.
Highlight: Harvest events often include apple butter and cider demos, wagon rides, and hands-on activities.
What to Bring (and What to Know)
Footwear: Fields can be muddy—wear boots or shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Payment: Most markets accept cards, but some field check-ins prefer cash.
Bags: Many orchards provide containers; a reusable tote is handy for the car ride home.
Pets: Most orchards do not allow pets in the fields or markets due to health regulations.
Weather & crops: Same-day conditions matter—always confirm PYO hours before you drive.
Easy Day Plans
Ronks Family Fun
Morning: Kauffman Orchards for PYO apples
Midday: Old Windmill Farm tour
Afternoon: Cherry Crest Adventure Farm corn maze and eats
City + Orchard Afternoon
Lunch in Downtown Lancaster
Afternoon: Cherry Hill Orchards for PYO and sunset photos in the rows
Elizabethtown Views
Brunch in E-town
PYO at Masonic Village + farm market treats and a stroll
FAQ
Do I need a reservation?
Usually no. Most local orchards operate first-come, first-served during posted PYO hours.
How much does it cost?
Pricing varies by orchard and container (per pound, peck, or half-bushel). As a general guide, expect family-friendly pricing; verify day-of for current rates.
When is peak season?
Late September through October is prime for most varieties, with some picking continuing into November depending on weather.
Moving to Lancaster County After Your Orchard Weekend?
Start here:
Moving to Lancaster, PA: Pros, Cons, Cost of Living & Best Places to Live
https://albertlinsdell.com/post/moving-to-lancaster-pa-pros-cons-cost-of-living--best-places-to-liveTop 5 Neighborhoods in Lancaster for First-Time Buyers (2025)
https://albertlinsdell.com/post/top-5-neighborhoods-in-lancaster-for-first-time-buyers-2025How to Buy a Home in Lancaster: Step-by-Step
https://albertlinsdell.com/post/how-to-buy-a-home-in-lancasterBest New Construction Communities (2025 Edition)
https://albertlinsdell.com/post/new-construction-homes-lancaster-pa
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Final Call to Action
If Lancaster County already feels like home (or you want it to), let’s make a plan. Grab a free 15-minute consult on my calendar and I’ll help you map neighborhoods, school districts, commute times—and show you the best fall listings before they hit the market.
