Let’s face it, living in Essex County means convenience is everything. We’ve got amazing restaurants, parks, schools, and activities right at our fingertips…but one thing we don’t have? Apple orchards.
And listen, fall just doesn’t feel like fall without at least one family apple-picking trip (even if it ends with tired kids, sticky hands, and a car full of half-eaten donuts). The good news? We’re surrounded by incredible farms just a short drive away. Think apple cider donuts, hayrides, pumpkin patches, and yes, the perfect “fall photo op” for the grandparents.
Okay mamas, I’ve rounded up my favorite nearby orchards and farms for every type of family outing. So grab your iced coffee (because let’s be real, that’s your fuel for surviving the car ride) and let’s go!
Best All-Around Family Experience
Demarest Farms (Hillsdale, NJ – 25 min drive)
This is hands-down one of the most family-friendly orchards. You get over 25 apple varieties to choose from (hello, Honeycrisp!), plus extras like a petting zoo and playground. Pro tip: make reservations ahead of time, they do book up! The kids love the animals and you’ll love that it’s not a whole-day trek.
Best for Treats & Market Finds
Sun High Orchards (Randolph, NJ – 35 min drive)
This one’s perfect if your kids are snack-driven (aren’t they all?). Pick your apples and then hit the farm market for their homemade ice cream, pies, and those magical apple cider donuts. Honestly, half the fun is just hanging out in their shop.
Best for the “Classic Fall Festival” Vibe
Riamede Farm (Chester, NJ – 50 min drive)
If you want the full Pinterest fall day experience, Riamede is where it’s at. Historic orchard, hayrides, cider slushies (yes, that’s a thing), and pumpkins galore. It’s a bit more of a drive, but it’s totally worth it if you want that cozy fall farm feeling.
Best for Big Variety & Longer Day Trips
Melick’s Town Farm (Oldwick & Califon, NJ – 55 min drive)
Melick’s is huge. If your family wants to pick all the things– apples, pumpkins, maybe even peaches depending on timing, this is your spot. They even make their own hard and fresh cider. It’s a bit further, but you’ll get that “we really made a day of it” vibe.
Best for Easy PYO & Market Stop
Ort Farms (Long Valley, NJ – 45 min drive)
Ort Farms is the sweet spot if you want great apples without it being overwhelming. Right now they’ve got Honeycrisp and Gala ready to pick, and their farm market has bakery goodies and ice cream (do you sense a theme here?).
Mom Tips Before You Go
- Check online before you head out – apple varieties and hours can change fast.
- Bring wipes + a change of clothes – apple picking = sticky fingers and dusty shoes.
- Snacks + water for the car – because kids.
- Go early in the season for the best pick of apples (Honeycrisp moms, I see you!).
- Don’t stress the “perfect day,” even if you only pick a few apples, the kids will remember running in the orchard and eating donuts in the car.