The first day of fall was officially Friday so that means we can do ALL things Fall, even if it is still a bit warm.  So buy your pumpkin spice whatever, make your chili and yes, let’s go pick apples and eat doughnuts!

I don’t know why, but this year, I really want to go to an orchard and do all that basic fall stuff people do. Question is where to go, then I realized there were a lot of choices, so I Googled “apple picking west Michigan” then went through all the choices and found the top 5 based on the number of reviews, having at least 4 stars left, and proximity to the Grand Rapids area.  I was looking for 4 stars and above.

Here are the 5 best places to pick apples, from what I found; Happy fall!

 

 

  • 1

    Klackle Orchards LLC

    466 W Carson City Rd, Greenville, MI 48838

    This seems to be “the” attraction when it comes to picking apples, hayrides and more. You can pick apples and pumpkins and their website says they also have a corn maze, wagon rides, petting zoo, and a carousel.  So this would definitely be a full afternoon visit.

    A few of the 260+ reviews on Google said:

    Violent Marshmallow: Wonderful for families and groups. Pick your own apples, grab some donuts, pet some animals, and go on a hay ride this fall!

    Michaiah Reynolds: Love going here. Great cider.

  • 2

    Robinette's Apple Haus & Winery

    3142 4 Mile Rd NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525

    This is another large operation.  Right off the bat, I notice it says winery as well, so extra attention paid for me.  Their website boasts plenty of things to do when at the Apple Haus; including of course picking apples, but they have a corn maze, hayrides, and petting zoo.  They also have the jumping pillow, which the kid in me would love to play on.  And yes they have wine tastings as well, which could be a good spot to spend a few hours.

    Victor Bennett: It was a good visit, got honey crisp apples, sweet tangos, apple cider, honey, and donuts - making for a great beginning of September.

    Kera Sharpe: A great local spot to grab amazing cider and donuts. The hay ride was so much fun. There is also a corn maze, wine tasting, and lots of toys for the kids. Definitely recommend.

  • 3

    Crane Orchards U-Pick and Corn Maze

    6054 124th Ave, Fennville, MI 49408

    They do a bunch of different fruit picking throughout the year, but Apples and pumpkins are in now. Not only can you do u-pick but they have a corn maze and hayride along with a cow train for the kids.  From what I gather, their pies are very delicious.

    Tatianna Spencer: I'd recommend the pie flight! They have some fun and interesting ciders as well.

    Jenna Kastran: We love going here! I have great memories of my childhood going to pick apples here, having lunch, donuts and can't wait to do that same thing with my own children. Great food, good people! We even used Cranes for our wedding as we did wedding pies. Delicious!! I also thankful for all of their new gluten free items!

  • 4

    Moelker Orchards & Farm Market

    9265 Kenowa Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534

    It’s a smaller farm from the first few, but still offers apple picking and during October, you can also pick pumpkins. They also have a bakery on site that makes donuts, fudge, fruit breads, and muffins.  And you can do a horse-drawn wagon ride while you’re there.

    David Appel: Grandson went here last year on a field trip. Since then we h as ve been back numerous times. Bakery is limited, but amazing. Breads and donuts are fabulous. Staff is very friendly.

    jman grostick: Fresh dounuts , not as crowded like most orchards, parking can be an issue if you go during a busy time, horse ride is worth the money because they tour the whole farm, never overpriced on anything

  • 5

    Wells Orchards

    9009 Kenowa Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534

    This is really getting back to the farm.  While not as flashy as the locations above, they still have a high rating and quite a few reviews.  They have apples and pumpkins as well, but they also harvest sweet corn, tomatoes and winter squash as well.  It appears they have salsa and maple syrup they sell (from the reviews) and a wagon ride around the farm.  Just looking at the pictures of the farm, it reminds me more of where my great grandparents used to live, which was always a fun place to visit.

     Sally Joseph: Great, fresh grown food! Love their maple syrup too. Helpful and friendly staff. Play set for kids to play on while there. Highly recommend!

    gibby reynhout: Great apples and cider. Best atmosphere you will find for a family run orchard.

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