It’s the most wonderful time of year for apple lovers. The fragrance of ripening apples at the orchards, a scent that has been replicated in candles, air fresheners, and more, is back, which means apples at local orchards are ripe for picking. Even better news – returning this year – Peaches! Locally grown peaches return to many orchards after a poor harvest in 2023.
Local orchards are prepared for big crowds over the next few weekends, and many farms have a full slate of activities, including hay rides, nature trails, cider donuts, and pumpkin picking. Remember to always check social media updates before heading out, as orchards may adjust their hours due to supply and weather issues.
Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown has seen a busy summer and expects big crowds over upcoming weekends. A favorite on Aquidneck Island, they’ve got apples and peaches ready to pick, with pumpkins expected to be ripe by late September. Stop by the cafe for a beverage and visit the farm store for dozens of specialty items. Open daily 9AM-6PM, 915 Mitchell’s Lane, Middletown. Details here.
Rocky Brook Orchards in Middletown features over 80 varieties of apples ripening at different times over the next couple of months – who knew there were that many varieties? Plus, pears, quince, and more at the farmstand. Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10AM-4:30PM, 997 Wapping Road, Middletown. Check their Facebook page here for updates. Details here.
The Young Family Farm in Little Compton opens for the season on September 7 with Honeycrisp, Macintosh, Gala, Smoothie, Mutsu, and Jonagold varieties available. Open Thursday – Monday 10AM-4PM for picking. 260 West Main Rd., Little Compton. Details here.
Old Stone Orchard in Little Compton features up to 13 varieties of apples and five varieties of pumpkins, plus mums, eggplant, honey, and eggs at the farm market. In addition to apples and a field of sunflowers, families can visit goats, pigs, turkeys, ducks, and more. 33 Cole Brook Rd., Little Compton. Details here.
Pippin Orchard in Cranston has several acres and over a dozen varieties of apples available for pick-your-own on weekends and daily at the farmstand. Don’t miss friendly farm animals, farm-fresh eggs, candy apples, and their apple cider donuts, too! Open 9AM-5PM. 751 Pippin Orchard Road, Cranston. Details here.
Opened in 2004, one of the newest orchards in the state is Narrow Lane Orchard, where you can find 20 varieties of apples, peaches, nectarines, blackberries, blueberries and kiwi berries. Open daily 10AM-5PM, 213 Narrow Lane, North Kingstown. Details here.
Phantom Farm in Cumberland grows 15 different apple varieties, most of which are available at the country store and cafe, where you can enjoy a fresh bakery item, like the legendary pumpkin mousse roll. 2920 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland. Details here.
