Apple picking starts in early September around here and runs into October. It is one of the best reasons to visit the lakeshore in fall. The air turns crisp, the leaves start to change and the orchards fill up with families.
Here are my favorite orchards and farm stops, from Fennville to South Haven to Holland. Some have apples, some have berries and pumpkins, and all of them are worth a stop.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: What Ripens When: The U-Pick Calendar
My Favorite Fall Orchards
1) Crane's Orchards
Crane's Orchards in Fennville has u-pick fruit, a fall corn maze and the famous Pie Pantry. If you only do one orchard, make it this one.
Pick, get lost in the maze, then get pie.
It is right in the middle of Fennville orchard country, so you can easily pair it with a winery stop or a farm to table lunch.
2) Overhiser Orchards
Overhiser Orchards in South Haven offers u-pick fruit and fall fun. It is a great choice if you are staying on the south end of the shore.
Wear shoes you do not mind getting muddy.
It pairs well with an afternoon in South Haven.
3) Riverbend Farms
Riverbend Farms in South Haven grows raspberries and blackberries, mid June to late October. Not apples, but a fall berry stop is a nice surprise.
Mix it into an orchard day for a little variety.
It is a fun option if your group wants something a little different from the usual apple day.
READ: A Weekend in Fennville
4) Visser Farms Country Market
Visser Farms Country Market in Holland has u-pick strawberries, blueberries and pumpkins, plus a country market. In fall, it is all about the pumpkins.
Pick out a pumpkin for the porch while you are there.
It is a great spot for little kids who want to pick their own pumpkin.
5) Crisp Country Acres
Crisp Country Acres in Holland runs a farm store that is open all year, with u-pick berries in season. It is an easy stop for fall produce on the way back to the house.
Good to know about if the weather turns on picking day.
It is the kind of place I like to have in my back pocket for a quick, easy stop.
Call ahead or check social media before you go. Picking conditions change with the weather, and the orchards can get busy on fall weekends.
Fennville River View is surrounded by orchard country, so you can pick in the morning and be back at the house by lunch. Come stay with us this fall.
More favorites in my Saugatuck area guide.