North Carolina and South Carolina orchards are among the most beautiful in the South, with a variety of apples each season. Some of them are U-pick orchards, while others have roadside markets where you can buy already-picked apples and other products. Several variables go into the ripening dates, but most apples are ready for picking from July through mid-October each year.
Chattooga Belle Farm in Long Creek, SC
This 198-acre working farm is nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They offer U-pick apples and a general store full of a variety of items. They also have a bistro where you can have lunch and a distillery to grab a drink. You can play disc golf and schedule a full farm tour. Make a weekend out of it – they offer several lodging options and campsites.
Justus Orchard in Hendersonville, NC
This fifth generation family-owned farm in the beautiful Western North Carolina Mountains offers U-pick or already-picked apples along with other fruits and homemade goodies. They have a bakery, taproom, and tons of activities for children, including a playground, cow train rides, a jumping pillow, goats, a pond with ducks, and an apple cannon.
MacGregor Orchard in Travelers Rest, SC
This family-owned orchard is located off the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway and grows 11 different fruits with 111 different varieties. They make their own fresh fruit preserves and fruit butters. They press fresh apple cider and make their own apple sauce. In addition, they carry a variety of local vegetables and other fruits from selected South Carolina farms while in season.
Sky Top Orchard in Flat Rock, NC
Nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, Sky Top Orchard has been a family tradition since 1967. From hayrides and apple cannons to their famous cider donuts, every visit is filled with adventure, sweetness, and memories in the making.
The Orchard at Altapass in Spruce Pine, NC
This small-batch heirloom orchard sells over 30 apple varieties throughout the season. There is a restaurant that serves lunch daily, and many local restaurants nearby. They offer hayrides, hiking trails, and it’s pet friendly. Visit their general store for locally made jams and jellies, honey, pickled veggies, salsas, and dips. Check out the events calendar before you go – they often have live music.
Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill in York, SC
This family-owned boutique apple orchard and hard cider producer is located in the upstate of SC. Stop in for a tasting of their hard cider or pick your own apples. There are several varieties to select from, or check out their market for already picked apples. Throughout the fall, they have special activities such as music, hayrides, and festivals.