We spend a lot of time on the road in the Fall capturing family photos amidst changing foliage of New Jersey (have you booked yours? Our fall portfolio is simply spectacular. We still have a few sessions available in September) keeps us busier than almost any other time of year. But there is one thing I always make time for because I think children benefit tremendously from learning where their food comes from and when possible- getting it for themselves! Apple picking is a fantastic way for little ones of all ages to spend the day outdoors on a working farm. Our favorite apple picking spot is Dr Davies Farm (Congers, NY) set on Lake Deforest with a beautiful scenic backdrop. The girls love to use the picking pole and we usually make a batch of blackberry and apple jam from our pick. Here are some other favorite spots with tons of apple varieties to choose from in multiple areas around Northern NJ (please check the websites for farm hours and admission fees).
Sun High Orchards (Randolph, NJ)
Activities: petting zoo & hayrides Apples: Cortland, Macintosh, Honeycrisp and Empire Don’t Miss: Homemade ice cream
Demarest Farms (Hillsdale, NJ)
Activities: hayride, playground & farm animals Apples: 14 kinds! Saturday and Sunday, beginning in early September Don’t Miss: Cider Donuts
Alstede Farms (Chester, NJ) Activities: corn maze, pony rides, hayrides, & a bouncy house daily Apples: 45 different varieties Don’t Miss: Moonlight Corn Maze and Hayrides
Giamarese Farm and Orchards (East Brunswick, NJ)
Activities: Hayrides, pony rides and a corn maze. The farm is closed on Mondays. Apples: More than 12 varieties including Mollie’s Delicious Don’t Miss: All produce is non-GMO
As we always pick more than we need I’d love to know how you use your apples. Please let me know!