Northeast Farms Let Guests Make Their Own Cider

Local Orchards in Midwest and New England Offer Fun Fall Activities

Oct 12, 2009

Farms and orchards offer many enjoyable autumn activities. Some Midwest and New England farms even allow and teach patrons to make their own cider using a cider press.

In the fall many have made it a family tradition to visit either a farm or an orchard. It is a way to enjoy and celebrate the fall harvest, and to spend a little time outdoors before the winter cold and snow settles in.

Several farms throughout the northeast offer their patrons the opportunity to pick their own fruit during the harvest season, and for an even more hands on experience, some now give their guests a chance to also make their own cider on site.

Farms and Orchards in the Midwest

Lake Ida Apple Farm in Minnesota—Only about 40 minutes from Fargo, North Dakota, Lake Ida Apple Farm allows patrons to come and pick their own apples as well as make their own cider using the farm's cider press. The farm is extremely serene and peaceful, and many guests simply enjoy just walking the grounds and spending a little quiet time. It is important to call ahead as it can be quite cold and snowy in the area (sometimes even in October). For a weekend getaway, stay overnight in Fargo. Other activities to enjoy over the weekend include visiting the Red River Zoo, canoeing or fishing.

Farms and Orchards in New England

Prospect Hill Orchards in New York—Within close proximity of Albany, Prospect Hill Orchards is a favorite of many in New York state. During the fall months, guests to the farm can pick their own apples, pumpkins, or pears. Afterwards, they can enjoy making their own cider, taking a hayride or shopping at the farm's market. Consider making it a relaxed weekend with an overnight stay in either Hyde Park or Poughkeepsie. Some other activities or attractions to enjoy while in the area include a river boat tour, hiking, horse back riding or a visit to one of the many local museums.

Apple Crest Farm in New Hampshire—Looking for a complete weekend of fall fun and activities? Apple Crest Farm near Hampton Beach is the ideal destination. Throughout October, farm guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor events including fruit picking, hayrides, cider making, live music and great food. Lodge overnight in Hampton Beach and spend the entire weekend enjoying the farm.

Green Mountain Orchards in Vermont—This farm and cider mill is a little over an hour from Montpelier (the capitol of Vermont), and less than an hour from northern Massachusetts. During the fall, patrons of the farm enjoy picking their own fruit, making fresh apple cider and horse drawn wagon rides. Make it a complete weekend with an overnight stay in either Montpelier or Springfield, Massachusetts (about an hours drive).

Some farms and orchards also offer corn mazes, scarecrow making and haunted houses or barns during the fall season.

The copyright of the article Northeast Farms Let Guests Make Their Own Cider in NE U.S. Travel is owned by Dee Dee Smith. Permission to republish Northeast Farms Let Guests Make Their Own Cider in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.