APPLE PICKING

Tis the season pick apples and devour cider doughnuts! See our guide to pumpkin patches and corn mazes for more fall fun.

General tips:

šŸŽ Go early. Most orchards are packed by mid-day. Weekdays are less crowded but the hay rides, music etc. won't be happening.

šŸŽ Be prepared for lots of walking in uneven, possibly muddy terrain. Think boots, layers and baby carriers instead of strollers.

šŸŽ Bring cash, lots of it. Some farms don't take credit cards (though some are cashless); all the food and activities can add up quickly.

šŸŽĀ Call or check the farm's website to confirm apples (sometimes they are picked out) and activities are available.

šŸŽĀ Find more country fun including farms, zoos & outdoor museums in our beyond NYC guide plus great podcasts for the drive (and fall festivals in NYC).

šŸŽĀ Watch this video before you go (without the kids) and start gathering apple recipes.

Westchster/Hudson Valley

Hudson Valley

LONG ISLAND

New Jersey