Autumn Means Apple Picking in New England; Here are Some Fun Farms

Every Autumn, thousands of New England families round up the troops and head out for a day of apple picking.  Anyone would agree that there’s something special about the scent of ripe apples combined with a cool breeze that’s reminiscent of every childhood.  With so many choices of places to pick, it’s not easy deciding where to go, but no matter what you decide, you’ll be ensured a great day filled with sticky faces and many memories.

1. Belkin Family Lookout Farm - One of the country’s oldest operating farms, a day at Belkin in Natick is more than just an experience in apple picking.  With fresh fruit and lots of fun spread over 180 acres of land, Belkin is a giant paradise for families.  After paying your admission, jump on a train and wind your way through the trees.  Hop on and off for a variety of fruit including apples, peaches, pears, and of course a pumpkin patch where visitors can lose themselves.  After picking, ride the train to the last stop where kids can enjoy the playground, climb the haystacks, or get lost in the burlap maze.  Everyone will love the farm animals and fall weekend events that include face painting, live entertainment, pony, camel, and hayrides.

2. Tougas Family Farm - Located in Northboro, Tougas Farm is among the finest orchards Ma. has to offer.  With no general admission (fruit is

sold by weight), it is also affordable.  Arrive early to beat the crowd and ride the wagon until you reach the perfect spot.  Fill your bags with over 10 varieties of apples during the height of the season, and of course pick a pumpkin for carving.  Visit the barnyard and greet pygmy goats, pot belly pigs,  Indian runner ducks, and more.  Run the kids around the big playground while you grab their famous cider donuts to take home (have patience, the line can be long).

3. Honey Pot Hill Orchards - Hit Honey Pot Hill in Stow for apples, pears, a tour through both a hedge maze and a tunnel maze, and a hayride.  Visit the animals, including bunnies, the “three little pigs”, goats, roosters, and ducks and on weekends, mascot Henry the Bear greets visitors.  A 200 acre family-owned and operated farm, you can still find family members working different areas of the farm.  Don’t miss the Appleshop, serving up farm fresh fruit and veggies, fudge, jams, butters, and honey, and sweet stuff too (pies, cider donuts, caramel apples…).

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