Apple Picking Near South Orange: 3 Orchards To Visit

SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — If apple picking is on your fall checklist, several New Jersey orchards are still welcoming visitors this October.

Melick's Town Farm in Califon currently lists Macoun, Ambrosia, Jonagold, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Empire, Cortland and Gala among its picking options.

Beyond apple picking, Melick's Town Farm offers weekend tractor wagon rides, a tractor tire playground and picnic tables at its Califon location. The farm market sells fresh-baked goods, pre-picked produce, sweet corn, fresh vegetables, hard cider and wine.

Riamede Farm in Chester offers pick-your-own apples Wednesday through Monday. From apple and pumpkin picking to hayrides, live music and fresh cider donuts, the farm offers plenty of classic fall activities for the whole family.

Beyond apple picking, Riamede Farm offers pumpkin picking, hay wagon rides, live music, a corn trail, kids’ lawn games, an apple slingshot and other fall activities.

Also in Chester, Alstede Farms currently offers apple picking, with varieties including Ace Red Delicious, Fortune, Hampshire McIntosh, McIntosh, Ida Red, Shizuka, Lady, Crimson Crisp, Cameo, Mutsu, Suncrisp, Astec Fuji, Rome Beauty and Stayman. Prices at Alstede Farms depend on the pick-your-own admission and produce-box option selected.

Beyond apple picking, Alstede Farms offers scenic tractor-drawn wagon rides, a corn maze, a giant hay pyramid and an evergreen maze, along with live weekend entertainment and visits with farm animals.

Check each orchard's current picking conditions before making the trip.

Have a correction or news tip? Email dani.sepe@patch.com.