family fun
Let’s Go Apple Picking! These are the top spots to pick your own apples in our area. By Alison Leighton
W
hen September rolls around, I get excited about one big thing (no, not back-to-school season…): apple picking season! The fall brings us cute boots and sweaters, preparing to cozy up by a fire, and pick-your-own apples! I also think a trip to the farm isn’t complete without a cup of delicious apple cider, followed by homemade treats (I’m looking at you, apple cider doughnuts!) to show the fruits of our labor (ha!). If you’re ready for apples galore, then check out these farms on Long Island, plus two great options in New Jersey that make great day trips. Your family will have a blast picking fresh fruit and checking out the various activities offered at each place, such as petting zoos, corn mazes, or sunflower picking. A few things to keep in mind: Opening seasons are approximate as of the writing of this article since crops are based on weather conditions. Always check the farm’s website or call ahead to confirm availability and COVID-19 guidelines given the ever-changing conditions. And don’t forget proper footwear as fields can be muddy or have uneven ground. Most farms don’t allow pets or picnicking (or any outside food, for that matter).
LONG ISLAND Hayden’s Peach Orchard 561 Hulse Landing Road, Wading River haydenspeachorchard.com • 631-929-1115 Hours: Monday, 9am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-6pm. Apple picking season is slated to begin late August/early Septem26
ber, call before visiting to confirm. Cost: $20 fee covers 3 people and the first 10lbs; $2 per additional pound At this orchard, you can pick your own nectarines through late September, peaches through the end of September, and apples through late October. The orchard also has plenty of pre-picked fruits avail-
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able at the farm stand. Visit the website for updates or call for fruit availability.
Lewin Farms 812 Sound Ave., Calverton Apple Orchard: Fresh Pond Avenue, approximately 2 miles east of farm stand lewinfarm.com • 631-929-4327
