As the air becomes crisp and the countryside is dressed in shades of red and gold, there’s no better time to explore the beauty of apple orchards in Wisconsin. Oh, how I love exploring apple orchards with the fam in autumn.  A time for slowly strolling along rows of trees heavy with fruit , wearing oversized hoodies. The scent of sweet apples filling the air, kids scaling trees for that one perfect apple they’ve got their eye on.  

In today’s post, I will bring you all the best Wisconsin apple orchards have to offer. Perhaps you’re looking for the best Wisconsin apple orchard for unique varieties of apples? Or the best apple orchard to entertain your wild-spirited little ones? Maybe you’re trying to figure out which apple orchard has the best fall-inspired baked goods? If you’re looking for a Wisconsin apple orchard offering a side of adult themed beverages, I’ve got you too! 

Luckily, Wisconsin has something for every kind of apple enthusiast and so does today’s post. So let’s get your mouth watering and talk Wisconsin apple orchards!  

When To Go Apple Picking in Wisconsin  

Apple picking season in Wisconsin typically starts in mid-August. Many farms allow visitors to pick their own apples in the orchards typically through the end of October.  Apple season can shift by as much as a few weeks depending on the weather and variety of apple. Be sure to check with the apple orchard you are visiting to ensure their season is underway.  

One note about visiting Wisconsin apple orchards is that they can become extremely crowded. Apple picking is very popular with Sconnies in fall. October can be especially crazy when orchards cater to both pumpkin and apple picking customers. Similarly, weekends become a nut house when families with kids flock to the orchards. To preserve a little sanity, consider apple picking in September and/or on a weekday.  

Quick disclaimer: Wisconsin is home to too many awesome apple orchards to name. Also, I have yet to explore them all. This is my list of apple orchards I know, love and think you should explore too. Feel free to comment below with your favorites. Sharing is caring and I’m happy to add new spots to my future apple-exploring bucket list. Without further ado friends, let’s talk  

Alright friends, without further ado, let’s talk awesome apple orchards.   

1) Apple Holler

Sturtevant, Wisconsin 

Let’s kick this list of apple orchards in Wisconsin off with something of an institution. Located halfway between Milwaukee and Chicago is where you’ll find the sprawling 78 acre orchards of Apple Holler. Apple Holler is perhaps the OG of the Wisconsin-mega orchard experience. Can you even claim to be a Wisconsinite if you haven’t experienced the joy of Apple Holler? This place is so revered, it was previously named one of the 1- best orchards not in the state, not in the Midwest, but in America. You heard that right; one of the 10 best orchards in America by USA Today.  

So, what sets Apple Holler apart? Honestly, a lot. First, Apple Holler offers a ton of apple varieties with more than 30 different kinds. Among apple orchards in Wisconsin, Apple Holler has one of the better offerings you’ll find.     

Second, Apple Holler is one of the best Wisconsin apple orchards with activities to keep your littles busy. Let the little humans expend all their energy at Apple Holler’s massive Farm Park. Kids will have all day access to the Kids Korral Play Area with corn maze, straw mountain, train, cow maze, and a variety of play structures. Additionally, Apple Holler’s golden goat bridge with goat viewing and feeding is always a crowd favorite.  

Lastly, if you love indulging in fall-flavored goodies like me, Apple Holler is the place. Come hungry and stop at the Red Barn Restaurant for the best breakfast goodies around. You haven’t had breakfast in Wisconsin without trying their ironic cider donut bread pudding breakfast or drunkin apple pancakes. Alternatively, pass the time at the Biergarten and Hard Cider Bar with their freshly made ciders. Or grab a tasty lunch of their smoked BBQ at the Applewood Grill.  Before you go, pick up all your favorite homemade goodies in the Country Store such as warm apple cider donuts and homemade pies.   

If you haven’t checked Apple Holler off your Wisconsin Fall Bingo card, hop to it. It’s the apple orchard to do if you can only do one.  

Best pick for: most well-rounded apple orchard in Wisconsin, onsite cider bar, best apple-themed breakfast dishes, convenient location right off I-94 

Could be better: the crowds because everyone is probably at Apple Holler  

2) Apple Barn Orchard and Winery

Elkhorn, Wisconsin 

Venture a bit further about an hour southwest of Milwaukee for another of Wisconsin’s best apple orchards. Apple Barn Orchard and Winery in Elkhorn Wisconsin offers a slightly more refined apple picking experience.  

Most notably, Apple Barn is not just an orchard, but also a winery! Apple Barn specializes in non-grape wines made from other home-grown fruits and berries. Some of the their most loved fruit wines include Apple Barn Blush, Backyard Blueberry and Country Rhubarb. If you love a good light fruity wine like me, you will love the offerings at Apple Barn!  

Awesome winery aside, Apple Barn offers apple picking and apple-themed treats in its Country Store and Bakery. Favorites include their fresh baked apple cider and strawberry donuts, caramel apples, apple jellies and strawberry pies.  

If you’re looking for more of a grown-up refined apple orchard in Wisconsin, head to Apple Barn. Apple Barn Orchard and Winery is a perfect place to enjoy a low-key afternoon with some home-baked goodies, and a bottle of wine with a couple girlfriends on the patio.  

Best pick for: an afternoon fruit wine tasting with girlfriends 

Could be better: not the most kiddo-friendly   

3) Peck & Bushel Organic Fruit Co.

Colgate , Wisconsin 

While we’re talking about classy apple excursions, let me introduce you to Peck & Bushel, Wisconsin’s premier certified organic apple orchard. The orchard is currently one of the largest organic apple orchards in the Midwest! 

Peck & Bushel Organic Fruit Co. offers a more rustic and organic apple-picking experience, perfect for those looking to connect with nature. If clean aesthetics are your thing, Peck’s classic white barn, darling country store and stunning orchard might be for you. The grounds are so charming, it has become a popular booking venue for special events.  Peck & Bushel is Insta-pretty perfection.  

First and foremost, this family-owned orchard is committed to organic farming practices and sustainable practices. Peck & Bushel is home to more than 50,000 dwarf apple and fruit trees where you can choose from more than 35 different apple varieties. After picking your own organic apples, stop by the barn for some treats such as their apple cider, applesauce and apple butter which are also certified organic.  

While not the most robust in the experiences offered, Peck & Bushel is a wonderful stop for those looking for a more aesthetic and peaceful apple picking experience.  

Best pick for: organic apples, Instagram aesthetics, couples photos 

Could be better: limited fun for kids  

4) Elegant Farmer

Mukwonago, Wisconsin 

Are you even from Wisconsin if you didn’t spend a part of your childhood at the happy face barn of Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago?  

Elegant Farmer is likely the most iconic apple farm on this list due to its wildly well-known and beloved happy face barn. I mean, if that doesn’t capture the spirit of Wisconsin hospitality, I don’t know what does…If you don’t have photos of your children in front of The Elegant Farmer’s smiley barn, I recommend rectifying that right now.  

Above all, Elegant Farmer is best known for its shamefully delicious baked goods. More specifically, its award-winning Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag. Seriously friends, the Wall Street Journal, Gourmet Magazine and Food Network have dubbed it “the best pie in America.” It’s so beloved, Bobby Flay from the Food Network was in town for a little throwdown on it. Is Elegant Farmer home to the best gourmet apple pie in America? Quite possibly. But you should come judge for yourself.  

Bring the family to check out Elegant Farmer for Harvest Fest taking place on weekends from early September to the end of October. During this time families can pick their own apples while enjoying the onsite corn maze, hay and animal rides. While there stock up on their apple-inspired can’t miss items like apple blossom gourmet popcorn and cider baked hams. Yum!   

Elegant Farmer is something of a Wisconsin apple orchard institution and should be on every Wisconsinite’s bucket list.  

Best pick for: the gold standard for fall-themed food items such as apple pie and other unique farm market foods 

Could be better: Limited hours and children’s activities  

5) Appleland Farm Market

Fredonia, Wisconsin  

Just a 20-minute drive north from Milwaukee is the Appleland Farm Market located in the hilly countryside of Fredonia. Appleland is a third-generation family owned operation spanning 130 acres offering more than 15 varieties of apples.  

Head to Appleland to pick your own apples around the scenic orchards or let the kids run wild for a few hours before resting for a picnic lunch. Appleland is home to a large playground area the kids are sure to love featuring an old-fashioned tractor, corn maze, horse swings and sand tire pyramid. After a day of playing, fill up on some of the goodies from their Farm Market. Some local favorites include their homemade apple butter, apple fritters and unique apple cider slushies!   

Best pick for: apple slushies and well-rounding offerings with lesser crowds 

Could be better: varieties of apples are limited 

6) Barthel Fruit Farm

Mequon, Wisconsin 

Barthel Fruit Farm is one of the longer-running farms on the list, having been in operation since the 1840s! Located a short drive outside Milwaukee, Barthel Fruit Farm offers a more low-key apple picking experience. It has some food and fun offerings, but less than the mega-orchards. As such, it is often overlooked and is a great choice to pick apples in relative peace.    

Barthel is a lovely spot to spend an afternoon exploring the orchard and picking your own apples. While the farm isn’t geared toward little people there is an onsite corn maze to help keep the kids occupied.  Other offerings at Barthel include a beer garden open on weekends, an Oktoberfest celebration in September and a bakery food truck offering a rotating menu of homemade treats such as apple cinnamon scones, and mini-apple crisps along with more traditional fall baked goods.    

Best pick for: a low-key apple picking experience  

Could be better: activities for kids  

7) Honey Creek Orchard

Cedarburg, Wisconsin 

Honey Creek Orchard is a newer apple orchard in Wisconsin but is quickly becoming a go-to destination for apple enthusiasts.  This charming orchard is set in adorable Cedarburg, and is home to more than 2500 apple trees. Perhaps the coolest thing about Honey Creek Orchard is that they offer a whopping 75 varieties of apples. Who even knew that many kinds of apples were even a thing!?!?! 

Unique apple varieties aside, Honey Creek is also a great choice for an afternoon with the family. There is plenty to keep the whole family busy with wagon rides, corn mazes, play structures, Western play buildings and a small animal farm. Be sure to stop by the farm stand for apple donuts made onsite and a fresh pressed apple cider among other treats.  

Best pick for: finding obscure and unique varieties of apples not found elsewhere 

Could be better: The food options aren’t as extensive as other Wisconsin apple orchards  

8) Basse’s Taste of Country

Colgate, Wisconsin  

Basse’s is well-known as being the gold standard for fall fun in Wisconsin with their annual Pumpkin Fest. Similarly, Basse’s offers an annual Apple & Sunflower Fest that kicks off at the end of August. While Basse’s has a great apple picking offering, visitors should not expect the bells and whistles offered during Pumpkin Fest.  

During Apple & Sunflower Fest, visitors can pick their own apples, and explore the sunflower and zinnia mazes, in addition to riding the grain train, and playing games such as the bubble bin, bag toss and box maze. In addition, visitors can pick their own flowers for an extra fee. Basse’s also has a variety of fall-themed food options available onsite for purchase.  

One thing to keep in mind is that the selection of offerings both of food and activities for kids are substantially scaled down from the Pumpkin Fest offerings. Basse’s is a wonderful place to visit for Apple & Sunflower Fest, just keep your expectations reasonable…and then come back for Pumpkin Fest.  

Best pick for: variety of experiences including unique flower picking    

Could be better: apple season pales in comparison to their Pumpkin Fest offerings 

9) Jelli’s Market

Helenville, Wisconsin 

Located about 40 minutes west of Milwaukee is Jelli’s Market in Helenville. Jelli’s is one of the newer apple orchards in Wisconsin, but has so much to offer.   

First, Jelli’s offers some of the more robust fruit picking options including apples, raspberries, blueberries, peaches and plums. They also have sunflower fields where you can pick your own sunflowers as well! In terms of stuff you can pluck from their fields, there’s a lot to choose from.  

Additionally, don’t think twice about bringing the little ones along for a day at Jelli’s. The kids will keep busy riding the Blue Barrel Train or playing Angry Birds Slingshot while mom and dad indulge their taste buds with treats from the farm store.  

Lastly, consider visiting Jelli’s in spring or summer too. During summer, Jelli’s is home to a greenhouse loaded with vegetable plants and herbs to take home with you. In summer, they’ve got a great crop of peas, beans and sweet corn for sale.  

Best pick for: variety of you pick fruits available  

Could be better: could expand their kitchen options