Autumn Activities: Apple Picking & Vineyards to Visit

Even though Autumn doesn’t officially begin until September 22, the start of the month always brings a festive fall mood, making us eager to dive into seasonal activities like apple picking, vineyard visits, watching cozy fall movies, and cooking comforting meals. To kick off the festive Autumn season, we have created a list of the best vineyards and apple orchards in Virginia.

Apple Picking in Virginia

Virginia is the sixth largest apple-producing state in the U.S., and most, if not all, of the apple orchards are open to the public for apple picking. 

Apple Picking Season in Virginia

Apple picking season in Virginia runs from mid-August through early November. The exact timing can vary depending on the location and the specific apple varieties being grown. Early-season apples, like Ginger Gold and Gala, are usually ready in August, while later varieties, such as Fuji and Pink Lady, can be harvested in October and early November. Many orchards offer a variety of apples throughout the season, so there’s usually something ripe and ready to pick from late summer into fall.

Types of Apples Grown in VA / the most grown types

• Fuji

• Ginger Gold

• Granny Smith

• Golden Delicious

• Jonathan 

• Red Delicious

• Rome

• Stayma

• Winesap

• York

Apple Picking Orchards in VA

• Stribling Orchard, Markham, VA

• Great Country Farms, Bluemont, VA

• Carter Mountain Orchard, Charlottesville, VA

• Crooked Run Orchard, Purcellville, VA

• Marker-Miller Orchards, Winchester, VA

• Hartland Orchard, Markham, VA

• Hollin Farms, Delaplane, VA

• Mackintosh Fruit Farm, Berryville, VA

• Morris Orchard, Monroe, VA

• Valley View Farms, Delaplane, VA

• Rinker Orchards, Stephens City, VA

Apple Picking Orchard Highlight: Stribling Orchard

1587 Poverty Hollow Lane, Markham VA (1 hour from Alexandria driving)

Stribling Orchard, located just an hour's drive from Alexandria in Markham, VA, is a charming destination for apple picking, with the season running from mid-August to early November. On weekends, the orchard comes alive with live music from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the bakery opens, offering a delightful selection of fresh baked goods. Visitors can also explore several vendors selling wine, kettle corn, and ice cream (weekends only). The Harvest House, a highlight of the orchard, offers a variety of local products including cider, honey, jams, jellies, salsas, hot sauces, and cookbooks. Don't miss their famous Apple-Cinnamon Bread, Peach Pie, Apple Pie, and Apple Cake, all freshly baked and perfect for a taste of the season.

After a day of apple picking head home and make some Apple Crumble, try this delicious recipe. Pair it with a fresh glass of apple cider from the orchard, and settle in for a cozy evening with your favorite fall movies. It’s the perfect way to savor the season!

Vineyards in Virginia

Virginia Wine

Virginia is home to eight AVAs (American Viticulture Areas) and over 4,000 acres of vineyards, primarily located in Northern and Central Virginia. The region cultivates 28 grape varieties,  evenly split between red and white. Signature varietals like Viognier and Cabernet Franc flourish in Virginia's rich soils. Virginia has earned its place on the global wine map, particularly for its masterful red blends crafted from Bordeaux varieties, capturing the essence of this historic and evolving wine region.

A collection of the best vineyards in VA that offer wine tasting:

• Barboursville Vineyards, Charlottesville, VA

• Boxwood Estate, Middleburg, VA

• King Family Vineyards, Crozet, VA

• Blenheim Vineyards, Charlottesville, VA

• Early Mountain Winery, Madison, VA

• Ankida Ridge Vineyards, Amherst, VA

• Linden Vineyards, Linden, VA

• Rappahannock Cellars, Huntly, VA

• Gabriele Rausse Winery, Charlottesville VA

• Potomac Point Winery, Stafford, VA

• RdV Vineyards, Delaplane, VA

Highlighted Winery: Early Mountain Vineyards, 6109 Wolftown-Hood Road, Madison VA 22727 (about 2 hours from Alexandria by car)

Early Mountain Vineyards offers 55 acres dedicated to Bordeaux-type varietals like Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Their philosophy centers on crafting wines that truly reflect the character of the grapes. Visitors can enjoy a tasting room experience complemented by an on-site restaurant known for its excellent food. For a more relaxed setting, there’s a casual picnic area with a small menu and walk-up bar for wine. Nearby, the Inn at Willow Grove (named by Travel + Leisure one of the best resorts in the South) provides convenient and comfortable accommodations for those looking to extend their visit.

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SEE ALSO: Travel Around Virginia: Unique Resorts for an Unforgettable Stay