Forget pumpkin spice

Last year wasn’t kind to our apple farmers and picking enthusiasts due to the crop shortage and nonstop rain, so fingers, ears and eyes crossed that everyone wins this year–and packs on some winter insulation from cider donuts! Here’s a look at some of our favorite places. Please visit their websites or call ahead for hours and varieties of apples. 
 
Lakeview Orchard, Lanesborough, MA | Small but charming, in September, visitors can pick apples, peaches, plums, and pears. The store also sells baked goods and, most importantly, pierogies!
 
Hilltop Orchards, Richmond, MA | This family-owned cidery and winery offers tastings of both beverages, plus pick-your-own apples, sweet cider, cider donuts, apple pie, and other apple products.
 
Indian Ladder Farms, Altamont, NY | This isn’t just an orchard; it’s a theme park dedicated to Mother Earth with a cidery and brewery, dining options including Troy’s famous pizzeria DeFazios, and a large selection of apple varieties to pick. 
 
Samascott Orchard, Kinderhook, NY | With over a thousand acres, it’s no surprise that visitors can pick from more than 70 varieties of apples in addition to kale, green beans, peppers, squash, pumpkins, and pears. 
 
Bartlett’s Apple Orchard and Farm Market , Richmond, MA | Family-owned and open since 1947, Bartlett’s offers 13 varieties of apples, house-made cider, cider donuts, and a selection of apple pastries. 

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