GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Apple season is here which means many people will be heading to a nearby orchard for their annual apple-picking outing.
Whether you have a go-to orchard or are looking for something new, there are many orchards in West Michigan to choose from.
ALLEGAN COUNTY
Crane Orchards
Crane Orchards in Ganges Township was voted one of the Top 10 apple orchards in the nation by USA Today, according to the website. It offers U-Pick cherries, peaches and apples. The website offers an explanation of each apple variety it offers and when it is estimated to be ripe. The farm also has a corn maze, hayrides and a cow train.
Overhiser Orchards
Located in Casco Township, Overhiser Orchards offers U-Pick cherries, apricots, peaches, plums, pears and apples throughout the year. Apple picking runs from approximately Sept. 1 to Oct. 31. In addition to apple picking, the farm has farm animals that guests can visit, a pumpkin patch, a corn maze and more.
IONIA COUNTY
Hanulcik Farm Market & Orchard
Located in Easton Township, Hanulcik Farm Market & Orchard offers U-Pick apples on select weekends at its two orchards — U-Pick dates are announced on its Facebook page. The farm produces over 20 varieties of apples. Guests are asked to bring their own ladder and container for the apples, but some containers are available for purchase. Learn more here.
KALAMAZOO COUNTY
Gull Meadow Farms
In Richland, Gull Meadow Farms offers U-Pick apples and pumpkins. The orchard offers over 30 varieties of apples, but not all are available for U-Pick. View which apples are available here.
The farm also has several activities for all ages. From duck races, giant yard games and train rides to a petting farm, pic races and more, there’s something for everyone. General admission varies depending on day and. Learn more here.
Husted’s Farm Market and Cider Mill
Husted’s Farm Market and Cider Mill in Oshtemo Township has U-Pick strawberries, cherries, herbs and apples throughout the year. The website explains each apple variety it offers and an estimated timeframe of when it will be ripe.
KENT COUNTY
Fruit Ridge Hayrides
Fruit Ridge Hayrides in Kent City offers U-Pick apples and pumpkins as well as horse-drawn wagon rides, a corn maze and more.
U-Pick apples open to the public on Sept. 21 and goes until Oct. 27. Hours are Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in October, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations can be made Monday through Thursday for groups.
View the varieties available and what other activities the farm has here.
The Orchards at Red Barn
In Vergennes Township, The Orchards at Red Barn offers U-Pick apple picking in September and October. To participate, you must purchase a Beyond the Barn pass and apple bags. The farm also has a petting farm, yard games, hard cider, a corn maze and more. Learn more here.
Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery
Located in Grand Rapids Township, Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery offers 35 varieties of apples on its 125-acre property. In addition to the orchards, visitors can explore the Apple Haus, winery and enjoy a variety of activities.
Schwallier’s Country Basket
Located in Alpine Township, Schwallier’s County Basket offers U-Pick apples and pumpkins. The orchard frows 15 varieties of apples. The website breaks down the different varieties with a description of each, when they will be ripe and if they are for eating or cooking.
MUSKEGON COUNTY
Kooistra Orchards
Located in Bridgeton Township, Kooistra Orchards offers U-Pick or already-picked apples. U-Pick is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. View the varieties offered and their approximate ripe schedule here.
OCEANA COUNTY
Lewis Adventure Farm and Zoo
In Shelby Township, the Lewis Adventure Farm and Zoo offers U-Pick apples daily. Admission and a U-Pick bag is required to access the orchard. The website explains each apple variety it grows and if it is available in U-Pick, at the market or both. The farm also has a corn maze, a petting zoo and more.
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY
Corey Lake Orchards
Located in Fabius Township, Corey Lake Orchards offers U-Pick apples on Saturday and Sunday with several varieties of apples to choose from. Guests are encouraged to bring a short, kitchen-type stool to help reach the fruit. Bags are provided. Learn more about the orchard here.
If you know of an orchard that offers U-Pick apples that is not included on this list, email it to reportit@woodtv.com.