Apple picking is tons of fun for families, friends and couples — add an orchard trip to your fall itinerary. Knowing where to go is the first step to your Lancaster apple picking trip. Lancaster has many vast orchards sprinkled throughout the county — here are a few of the best to know.

Planning a trip to Lancaster this fall? The Warehouse Hotel is minutes away from many of Lancaster's best orchards — reserve a room today! 

Brecknock Orchard

Address: 390 Orchard Rd., Mohnton

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Brecknock is a bit outside of Lancaster in Mohnton, but free admission and parking, over 35 types of apples and beautiful scenery are worth the trip into the countryside. 

Cherry Hill Orchards

Address: 400 Long Lane, Lancaster

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Visit Cherry Hill Orchards to pick between three box sizes to fill with apples right from the trees. Cherry Hill grows various types, so look for your favorites or try a new variety. 

Flinchbaugh’s Orchard & Farm Market

Address: 110 Ducktown Rd., Hellam

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Flinchbaugh's is across the Susquehanna from Lancaster in York County. Fill a bag with one of many apple varieties grown at the orchard, but keep the date in mind — each weekend features a different apple. 

Kauffman’s Fruit Farm & Market

Address: 53 S Weavertown Rd., Ronks

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Kauffman's invites guests to pick apples from the 50-acre orchard within their fruit farm. Either pick from numerous varieties at the orchard or visit their market at 3097 Old Philadelphia Pike in Bird-in-Hand for a pre-picked selection. 

Masonic Village Farm Market & Orchard

Address: 310 Eden View Rd., Elizabethtown

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Over 60 apple varieties are at Masonic Village. Pick your own or stop inside to try apple dumplings, cookies, pies and other goods. 

Weaver’s Orchard

Address: 40 Fruit Lane, Morgantown

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One of the region's oldest orchards, Weaver's has been growing apples since 1932 and has even brought entirely new apples to the world — the Star Gala, for one. See what you can pick and stick around to try some award-winning cider. 

Plan for a Memorable Apple Picking Adventure

While you consider which orchard to visit, here is some other information that can help you enjoy your day of apple picking:

• How long is apple picking season? Most varieties have a peak season somewhere between August and November.
• When is the best time to go apple picking in PA? You'll find more ripe apples in PA between September and late October. 
• How do you know when an apple is ready to be picked? Ripe apples will pop right off the branch if you lift them toward the stem and twist. 
• What are the best foods to make with fresh apples? Make apple pies, crisps, or dumplings, or fry one for a glazy treat.
• Can I freeze apples? You can freeze an apple, skin and all, for three to six months. Frozen apples taste great in smoothies, too!