A row of trees in an apple orchard in Georgia. There are red apples on the ground under the trees. — Ah, fall.

Map: Georgia’s best picks for apple orchards, in time for fall

Where it comes to autumn excursions, behold some of the best destinations around Atlanta this October.

By Michael Kahn Sep 29, 2017, 11:00am EDT

View as Map

Ah, fall.

| Odyssey

By Michael Kahn Sep 29, 2017, 11:00am EDT

With October upon us and the promise of weekend highs in the mid-70s, it’s decidedly apple picking season in Georgia!

Whether you like hitting the field to pick them yourself, or prefer just buying a (few) dozen apple cinnamon doughnuts and cider for the drive home, there's fun to be had—and food to be eaten.

While Ellijay may be home to the most well-known orchards in the state, apple-picking attractions can be found across North Georgia. And for those who don’t like apples, many of the orchards offer plenty of autumn activities, from hayrides to corn mazes.

Here are some of Georgia’s best-known apple orchards. Remember, given the nature of apple operations, it's best to call the orchard ahead of time to make sure they have what you want and are open.

2017 Best Places for Apple Picking in Georgia [Atlanta Parent]

Red Apple Barn

Copy Link

Apple picking at Red Apple Barn is available only on the weekends, with the orchards open Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Open in Google Maps

3379 Tails Creek Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540

(706) 635-5898

Visit Website

Red apples and green leaves on a tree branch.

B.J. Reece Orchards

Copy Link

The apple orchards are open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for picking. The last tickets for picking are sold at 5 p.m. In addition to apple picking, the farm also boasts pig races, a petting farm, racing ziplines, and pony rides.

Open in Google Maps

9131 Georgia 52 East, Ellijay, GA 30536

(706) 276-3048

Visit Website

Hillcrest Orchards

Copy Link

A 90-minute drive from Atlanta, the apple orchards are open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day for self-picking. With dwarf apple trees, Hillcrest Orchards offer the chance for kids to get in on the apple-picking action without the need for a back-breaking boost by parents.

Open in Google Maps

9696 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536

(706) 273-3838

Visit Website

Rows of green and red applies in an orchard in Georgia.

Mercier Orchards

Copy Link

Open for more than 70 years, Mercier Orchards boasts an expansive farm and store. Apple orchards are open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. And for those adults looking for something refreshing after apple picking, there’s also a hard cider tasting room.

Open in Google Maps

8660 Blue Ridge Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 30513

(706) 632-3411

Visit Website

Dark red apples and green leaves on the branch of a tree in an orchard.

Hillside Orchard Farms Country Store

Copy Link

Located near Tiger, home to many of Georgia’s vineyards and wineries, Hillside Orchard Farms offers apple picking, gem mining, a corn maze, and train rides. The store is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 1 to 6 p.m. on Sundays. Apple picking is “limited,” so call beforehand.