Best Apple Orchards within 90 Minutes of the Twin Cities for Families with Kids
Wondering where to pick apples near Minneapolis and Saint Paul with kids? Apple orchards around the Twin Cities offer seasonal activities and fresh, local produce just a short drive away! These family-friendly spots are bursting with exciting things to do—think apple picking, hayrides, corn mazes, and cider tastings. Whether your little ones are eager to hand-pick the perfect apple or explore a pumpkin patch, this guide features the best apple orchards near Minneapolis for families with kids. Many of these orchards offer farm-fresh treats, petting zoos, and beautiful picnic spots, making it easy to turn a simple outing into a full day of fall fun.
So, grab your favorite cozy sweaters, pile the kids into the car, and head out to one of these top apple orchards within 90 minutes of the Twin Cities. It’s the perfect way to savor the season and create lasting family memories!
Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest Craft Cider Bar & Orchard, Jordan
Head to Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest in Jordan for a day packed with festive fall fun. Voted the #1 apple orchard in the Minnesota Family Favorites Awards, it is just 45 minutes southwest of Minneapolis. This family-owned orchard offers a pick-your-own experience for apples and pumpkins, plus an array of activities in Apple Blossom Park. In fact, this apple orchard boasts some of the best fall activities near the Twin Cities for kids of all ages!
Kids will love exploring the giant corn maze, jumping in the corn pit, trying the apple cannons, and riding the cow train! Each cozy corner across Apple Blossom Park is packed with kid-friendly activities. After you’ve worked up an appetite, savor treats from the farm market. Meanwhile, parents (21+) can also sip craft cider at the Cider Barn. As one of the best apple orchards near the Twin Cities, all the activities offered at Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest Orchard are included with admission (except the apple cannons and gem mining).
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest Orchard can be found here.
Find the entire Minnesota Parent Apple Orchard Directory here.
Aamodt’s Apple Farm, Stillwater
One of the best apple orchards near the Twin Cities, Aamodt’s Apple Farm in Stillwater is an excellent option for families looking to embrace the fall season and all of its magic. The orchard is only about 30 minutes from Minneapolis.
This beloved, family-owned orchard offers a full day of fun with pick-your-own apples, wagon rides, and a charming goat farm. Kids will love the swing set and Honeycrisp Express barrel train, which is open every weekend and during MEA. Meanwhile, parents can indulge in fresh apple pies, Aamodt’s famous Apple Brats, and local honey from the Apple Barn & Bakery. Then, visit St. Croix Vineyards at Aamodt’s for wine tasting and hard cider sampling (21+). Whether you’re navigating the hay bale maze or saying hello to the goats, Aamodt’s is the perfect east-metro destination for those wondering where to pick apples near Saint Paul with kids.
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Aamodt’s Apple Farm are available here.
Related Topic: Guide to Fall Fun in Minnesota
Pine Tree Apple Orchard, White Bear Lake
Just 30 minutes from Minneapolis, Pine Tree Apple Orchard in White Bear Lake is a fall favorite for many Minnesota families. Known for its commitment to high-quality, sustainably grown apples, this orchard offers more than just fresh fruit.
As one of the top apple orchards in the Twin Cities, you can pick your own pumpkins, get lost in a corn maze, or take a relaxing stroll through the orchard. Be sure to check out the farm’s delicious bakery products, like caramel apples and fresh cider. With live entertainment on weekends and a variety of apple types to choose from, Pine Tree Apple Orchard is a fantastic spot for a fun-filled autumn day with your kids.
Admission pricing and current Pine Tree Apple Orchard hours can be found here.
Apple Jack Orchards, Delano
Apple Jack Orchards in Delano is your go-to spot for family fun, just 40 minutes from Minneapolis. This west metro gem offers more than just apple picking—explore a corn maze, enjoy wagon rides, and let the kids conquer the newly expanded ropes course and Spider Web.
With over a dozen fun farm attractions, including Farm Ball, Gaga Ball, and the Wooden Train Climber, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Take advantage of the bakery’s frozen pies and crisps or the gift shop stocked with jams, jellies, and everything apple-themed. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect peck of apples or browsing fall goodies, Apple Jack Orchards has it all! No wonder Minnesota families consider it one of the best apple orchards near Minneapolis with kids!
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Apple Jack Orchard can be found here.
LuceLine Orchard, Watertown – Twin Cities Apple Orchards
Located in Watertown, LuceLine Orchard is the perfect west-metro destination for a family adventure this fall, just 45 minutes from Minneapolis. Sprawling across 155 acres, this orchard offers endless activities for kids and parents alike.
Pick apples, climb Hay Mountain, and navigate the 30-acre corn maze before relaxing with some live music. The kids will also love the Bee Train, Pony Rides, and Zip Lines. Meanwhile, everyone can indulge in mouthwatering treats like caramel apples and award-winning apple fritters. Adults (21+) can also visit the Dog House Pub for a warm autumn cider or a signature Caramel Apple Sangria. Whether exploring the nature trail, feeding the farm animals, or shopping in the charming barn gift shop, LuceLine Orchard is undoubtedly one of the best apple orchards near the Twin Cities.
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for LuceLine Orchard can be found here.
Related Topic: Guide to Fall Fun in Minnesota
AppleHouse at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska
Just 30 minutes from Minneapolis, the AppleHouse at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska offers an idyllic fall outing for families. The AppleHouse, located 1.5 miles west of the main entrance, is a seasonal treasure trove featuring Minnesota-grown apples, many from the Arboretum’s Horticultural Research Center.
As one of the best apple orchards near Minneapolis with kids, the AppleHouse also offers gourmet treats, frozen apple pies, pumpkins, and more. While you’re there, grab some hot apple cider mini donuts or a cider slushie from North Star Donuts, available Tuesday through Sunday until October 31.
Then, make sure to catch Apple Fest on September 27. Here, you can participate in apple-themed activities like bobbing for apples and an apple-peeling contest while enjoying live music and delicious local food. No membership or reservation is needed, so swing by and savor the season while supporting Arboretum research!
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for AppleHouse can be found here.
Afton Apple Orchard, Afton
Looking for a lovely fall day out with the kids? Head to Afton Apple Orchard in Afton, under 45 minutes from Minneapolis. This family-owned orchard spans over 250 acres in the scenic St. Croix Valley, offering a fun and fresh way to experience the autumn season.
Pick your own apples, pumpkins, and fall raspberries. Or, navigate the 15-acre corn maze, opening in late September. Kids will also love the petting farm, Straw Mountain, and the giant playground. Take advantage of the fresh apple cider, donuts, and other seasonal treats at the orchard’s retail store. As one of the best apple orchards with tons of activities near Minneapolis with kids, many attractions are covered with the admission price, though some require an additional cost.
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Afton Apple Orchard can be found here.
Deer Lake Orchard, Buffalo
Deer Lake Orchard in Buffalo offers a memorable fall day with your family! Just under an hour from Minneapolis, this family-run orchard provides a range of activities and free admission. No wonder it’s one of the best apple orchards near the Twin Cities!
Start with a leisurely wagon ride through the maple forest filled with vibrant fall foliage. Then, let the kids bounce on the Jumping Pillow. Or, meander through the corn maze. On weekends, take a spin on the pedal carts, aim for fun with apple slingshots, or pick the perfect pumpkin. With a 100-year-old barn as the backdrop, it’s a charming destination for families in the fall. Finally, concessions and live music start in September (the schedule is TBD)!
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Deer Lake Orchard are available here.
Pleasant Valley Orchard, Shafer
Family-owned Pleasant Valley Orchard in Shafer is your go-to for an enchanting fall experience! This charming orchard offers a delightful mix of pick-your-own apples, pumpkins, and mouthwatering baked goods just under an hour from Minneapolis. Families seeking a traditional apple orchard experience in a beautiful setting find this one of the best apple orchards near Minneapolis with kids. Plus, admission is free!
From Labor Day weekend through November, enjoy scenic hayrides and live music on weekends, and explore their tasty food trailer serving up apple donuts and cider slushies. If you have more time, stroll along the nature path near the orchard, busting with fall colors. While pre-picked apples are available during the week, weekends are perfect for those wondering where to pick apples near Minneapolis with kids. Afterward, take advantage of their famous caramel apples and homemade apple pie! With stunning views of the St. Croix Valley, Pleasant Valley Orchard provides a cozy, low-key atmosphere for families to savor fall’s best flavors and activities.
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Pleasant Valley Orchard can be found here.
Sunrise River Farm, Wyoming – Twin Cities Apple Orchards
Under 40 minutes north of Minneapolis, Sunrise River Farm offers a day of fall fun for all, from apples to hayrides, for the whole family! Enjoy free admission and parking as you dive into a great day of picking your own apples. Grab a half-peck bag and fill it with apples fresh from the tree, or visit the farm market for pre-picked apples, pies, preserves, and colorful mums.
Then, don’t miss out on the petting farm with friendly creatures like donkeys, pigs, and chickens. Kids will love the playground and hayrides while you soak in the beautiful autumn scenery. Sunrise River Farm is a delightful destination for creating lasting family memories this fall, from apple picking to yummy farm snacks.
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Sunrise River Farm are available here.
Fireside Orchard and Gardens, Northfield
Families searching for a traditional apple orchard experience with a calm environment near Minneapolis with kids will adore Fireside Orchard and Gardens. Less than 40 minutes south of Minneapolis, Fireside Orchard has been a Minnesota favorite for 50 years! This charming orchard boasts 27 varieties of apples, including Honeycrisp, SweeTango, and the unique Fireside.
Find the entire Minnesota Parent Apple Orchard Directory here.
Enjoy tree-ripened apples that are perfect for snacking or baking during your visit. The orchard’s picturesque grounds offer plenty of family fun, from strolling through rose gardens and watching koi fish to relaxing in the gazebo or playing yard games. Kids will also adore the vintage tractors, including a 1952 Ford 8N and a 1948 Farmall H, which are great for photo ops. Fireside Orchard promises a delightful, low-key orchard experience for all ages.
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Fireside Orchard and Gardens are available here.
Ferguson’s Orchard, Eau Claire, WI
Just a short 90-minute drive from Minneapolis, Ferguson’s Orchard in Eau Claire is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable day of fall fun with kids of all ages! This family-owned gem is a sister orchard to Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest. For three years, Chippewa Valley Family Magazine has named it the #1 Fall Family Activity.
Spend the day picking your own apples and pumpkins, navigating the giant corn maze, and exploring the action-packed Apple Blossom Park. Apple Blossom Park offers over 18 exciting activities, including a new low ropes course, multiple wagon ride options, Johnny the Animatronic Tractor, and the Bubble Barn Bubble Station. All activities offered at Ferguson’s Orchard are included with admission (except the apple cannons and gem mining). Plus, families can indulge in fresh-baked goodies from their farm market. Or, grab a cider slushie from the Watering Hole Bar (hard cider and N/A options are available). With activities for all ages and beautiful fall scenery, you’ll quickly see why Ferguson’s Orchard is worth the drive and one of the best apple orchards with family activities near the Twin Cities!
Admission pricing and current orchard hours for Ferguson’s Orchard in Eau Claire can be found here.
Enjoy Apple Picking with Your Kids!
Whether you’re looking for the best apple orchards near Minneapolis with kids or seeking fun-filled adventures with plenty of fall activities, these destinations near the Twin Cities offer something for everyone. From picking farm-fresh apples and pumpkins to exploring corn mazes and munching on seasonal treats, you’ll find many options for a memorable family outing this fall. Discover where to pick apples near Minneapolis and Saint Paul with kids, and make the most of this fall season by visiting these delightful orchards. Each location promises unique experiences and the perfect backdrop for autumn adventures and family fun.
Find the entire Minnesota Parent Apple Orchard Directory here.
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
