That fall feeling is in the air, and few fall traditions can match a visit to a picturesque Wisconsin apple orchard. Whether you're in the mood for a scenic afternoon of apple picking near Madison homes for sale, sampling delicious baked goods, sipping fresh apple cider or simply enjoying a day out with the family, there's no place like an apple orchard on a fall day. So let's dive into some of the best apple orchards to visit for family adventures and cider sipping in and around Dane County.

Fall Stops at These Apple Orchards in Dane County

Sutter's Ridge Farm – Mount Horeb, WI

Address: 2074 Sutter Drive, Mount Horeb, WI 53572

If you're looking for a farm and orchard with fall family activities, then Sutter's Ridge Farm is well worth a visit at its location near these Mount Horeb homes for sale. They've got a 5-acre corn maze, a 6-acre pumpkin-picking patch, wagon rides, a kids' activity area and plenty of fall treats. Try their fresh apple cider donuts, fresh-pressed apple cider, caramel apples or purchase one of their 28 different apple varieties for all of your fall baking needs.

Eplegaarden Apple Orchard & Pumpkin Farm – Fitchburg, WI

Address: 2227 Fitchburg Road, Fitchburg, WI 53575

Eplegaarden Apple Orchard & Pumpkin Farm is your destination for all things apples this fall, with a convenient location right around the corner from Fitchburg homes for sale and a local tradition that dates back generations. Visit the orchard for apple picking as the season gets underway, or stop by later in September when pumpkins, grapes, squash and gourds are in season. Don't have time to pick your own? Their farm store offers fresh-picked items, plus outstanding apple cider and apple cider donuts.

Door Creek Orchard – Cottage Grove, WI

Address: 3252 Vilas Road, Cottage Grove, WI 53527

With a scenic location close to Cottage Grove homes for sale and an orchard that's been thriving for decades, Door Creek Orchard has been family-run since opening in 1984. The orchard welcomes visitors throughout the fall for fresh apples, pick-your-own opportunities when available and seasonal treats. Their fresh cider is extremely popular and available in limited quantities each week, so stop by early if you're looking for cider.

The Appleberry Farm – Cross Plains, WI

Address: 8079 Maurer Road, Cross Plains, WI 53528

The Appleberry Farm typically starts its fall apple season in early September at its small farm near Cross Plains homes for sale. They specialize in pick-your-own apples and also offer freshly-picked apples in their farm store. While you're at the farm store, don't miss the chance to try their pressed apple cider, fresh apple cider donuts and apple hand pies.

Pleasant Springs Orchard – Stoughton, WI

Address: 2722 Williams Drive, Stoughton, WI 53589

Located just south of Madison near Stoughton homes for sale, Pleasant Springs Orchard is a smaller orchard with an excellent farm store where you'll find fresh apples, apple cider and a variety of other fruit when in season. While they don't offer pick-your-own apples, the farm store is well worth a visit for fresh ingredients for fall cooking and baking.

What Should You Know Before Visiting a Dane County Apple Orchard?

When does apple-picking season start around Dane County?

Apple season varies by orchard and variety, but many local orchards begin offering apples in late August or early September. Different varieties ripen throughout the fall, so checking the orchard's website before your visit can help you see what's available.

Which Dane County orchards offer pick-your-own apples?

Several orchards on this list offer pick-your-own apples during at least part of the season, including Sutter's Ridge Farm, Eplegaarden, Door Creek Orchard and The Appleberry Farm. Availability can change as varieties ripen or sell out, so it's best to check current picking conditions before heading out.

Can you visit an apple orchard without picking apples?

Absolutely! Many local orchards have farm stores where you can purchase fresh-picked apples, cider and seasonal treats. Some orchards also offer activities such as corn mazes, wagon rides and pumpkin picking, making them fun fall destinations even if you aren't planning to pick apples.

Find Your Home for Fall Fun in Dane County

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