(Updated for Fall 2025–2026)
Apple-picking season in Chicagoland is more than just a weekend activity — it’s a Midwest tradition. The crunch of a Honeycrisp fresh off the tree, the scent of warm cider donuts, and the sight of kids darting through corn mazes make for a perfect autumn day. These three orchards, all within reach of Chicago, are worth the trip for fresh fruit, fun, and fall memories.
1. All Seasons Orchard – Woodstock, IL
Just an hour northwest of Chicago, All Seasons Orchard is one of the largest U-pick apple farms in Northern Illinois, with over 15,000–16,000 trees spread across scenic orchards. This is more than just an apple-picking stop — it’s a full-on fall festival.
Drive time: ~1 hour from Chicago.
Apple varieties: Honeycrisp, Gala, Liberty, Fuji, Jonagold, and more.
Extra fun: 10-acre corn maze with lookout bridges, petting zoo, pony rides, apple cannons, ropes course, and more.
Food & drink: Freshly pressed cider and daily-made apple cider donuts are a must-try.
Photo spot: Capture sweeping views from the corn maze’s lookout bridge, or hop on the horse-drawn wagon for a classic fall family shot.
Nearby attraction: Woodstock Square — a charming historic downtown with shops, cafés, and a famous filming location from Groundhog Day.
Tip: Weekends draw large crowds — arrive early for the best picking and shorter lines.
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2. Kercher’s Sunrise Orchards – Goshen, IN
A little farther from the city but worth the drive, Kercher’s Sunrise Orchards has been in the same family for more than a century. This sixth-generation, 300-acre farm blends tradition with hands-on fun, making it a great destination for families who want a genuine apple-picking experience.
Drive time: ~2.5 hours from Chicago.
Apple varieties: More than 19 kinds, from tart early-season apples to sweet late-season favorites.
Beyond apples: Pumpkins, sweet corn, squash, cabbage, and peaches—plus a farm market stocked with cider, jams, jellies, maple syrup, honey, baked goods, and more.
Activities: Free weekend hayrides in fall, guided apple tours (with cider tasting), a trip through the “Corny Side” with cornstalks, sunflowers, and a scarecrow, and seasonal pumpkin patch visits.
Photo spot: Climb aboard the hayride for a classic wagon-through-the-orchard shot, or capture the farm-fresh bounty outside the market’s colorful produce displays.
Nearby attraction: Downtown Goshen — known for its historic architecture, artisan shops, and locally owned cafés.
Tip: Check their online picking schedule before heading out — varieties change quickly as the season moves along.
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3. Tanners Orchard – Speer, IL
For more than 70 years, Tanners Orchard has welcomed visitors from across Illinois and beyond. Today, the fourth generation of the Tanner family runs this 11,000-tree orchard. They offer 17 apple varieties and a mix of traditional charm and modern family fun.
Drive time: ~2.5 hours from Chicago.
Apple varieties: Honeycrisp, Jonamac, Jonathan, Golden Delicious, and more.
Family traditions: Wagon rides (festival days), barrel train rides, a corn maze, pedal carts, farm animals, and playgrounds in the “Back 40 Fun Acres.”
Food & drink: A bakery and country farm market stocked with caramel apples, pies, cider, and other homemade treats.
Photo spot: Snap a fun shot on the barrel train in the Back 40 Fun Acres, or pose with your apple haul in front of the Apple Bin Bakery.
Nearby attraction: Peoria Riverfront — offering restaurants, riverwalk views, and seasonal events.
Tip: Save room for dessert! Their caramel apples are legendary.
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Make core-fall memories picking Honeycrisps, exploring corn mazes, and sipping cider at Chicagoland orchards. Peak season mid-September to early October—bring an extra bag for all the moments you’ll treasure.
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