Is there any better signifier of fall than crisp, freshly picked apples? When apple-picking season gets underway, you know you’re in for cooler temperatures and pleasant autumn days — which can come as a pure godsend after a blazing-hot Texas summer. And, not to mention, apple picking is a fantastic idea for an outing whether you’re a parent, babysitter, or nanny hoping to keep the kids entertained. Think about it! You get in a little exercise and plenty of fresh air, you’ll be doing your part to support local farms, and the whole thing is like one giant treasure hunt with a yummy, healthy prize at the end. What’s not to love?
And no, apple picking isn’t just for New Englanders. Luckily for us Texans, there are a few awesome picking operations in the Austin area. We’ve selected our five favorites. As a general note, though, make sure to call or contact the places on this list before planning a visit. Hours vary, and some farms may operate on an appointment-only basis. Happy apple picking, ya’ll!
1. Apple Valley Orchard
Facebook: Apple Valley Orchard
Address: 12340 S. State Highway 16, Llano, TX 78643
Hours: Contact the farm for current hours
Phone: 325-247-3979
Spread out over 32 acres in Oxford, about 10 miles south of Llano, Apple Valley Orchards is an incredibly scenic and lovely spot for apple picking. There are over 500 apple trees at Apple Valley and plenty of all the best varieties — from Gala, to Pink Lady, to Fuji, and many more. Gather up the fam and swing by to pick as many Texas-grown apples as your heart desires. Just don’t forget to sample some of Apple Valley’s famed fresh-pressed apple cider while you’re at it!
2. Love Creek Orchards
Website: lovecreekorchards.com
Address: 14024 State Highway 16, North Medina, TX 787055
Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Phone: 830-589-2202
Fun fact: Love Creek Orchards in Medina (deemed the “Apple Capital of Texas,” no less) has the only tree-ripe apples available in the country. This pick-your-own orchard is definitely one of the most well-known in the Hill Country, thanks to its 12 different apple varieties and dazzling array of home-baked goods, including apple butters and apple pie. And, if you make it to Love Creek, make sure to pop into the Apple Store in downtown Medina for even more baked apple specialties.
3. Sweet Berry Farm
Website: sweetberryfarm.com
Address: 1801 FM 1980, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Closed on Wednesdays; closed in summer)
Phone: 830-798-1462
Sweet Berry Farm is a hometown favorite when it comes to apple picking. Just an hour northwest of downtown Austin and nestled in the heart of the Hill Country, Sweet Berry has all the luscious apples you could want and endless charm to boot. Plus, the kiddos will love all the super-fun activities here. There’s a petting zoo, a giant maze, and even freshly-crafted ice cream made with fruit from the farm. There’s never a dull moment at Sweet Berry Farm!
4. Sonlight Apple Orchard
Website: sonlightappleorchard.com
Address: 517 Austin St., Mason, TX 76856
Hours: Pick-Your-Own Apples open Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Phone: 325-347-1808
Located right outside Mason (about a two-hour drive from Austin), Sonlight Apple Orchard is quaint and beautiful with six different varieties of apples on the property. Get ready for some seriously sweet produce. According to Sonlight’s website, Texas tree-ripened apples have a 14% higher sugar content than most apples grown in other parts of the country. Keep in mind, too, that if you’d like to include apple picking in an overnight getaway, Sonlight has lodging on site. Stay at either the Apple Cottage or Villa Victoria, and make a weekend out of it!
