The Best Places For Halloween Apple Picking And Donuts In Upstate New York

Last October, I dragged my family to three different orchards in one weekend because I couldn’t decide which had the best apple cider donuts.

Spoiler alert: they were all incredible, and my kids still talk about that sugar-fueled adventure.

Upstate New York transforms into a magical wonderland every fall, where crisp apples hang from trees and the smell of fresh donuts fills the air.

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect pumpkin or just want to stuff your face with warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness, these spots deliver unforgettable autumn memories.

Apple Dave’s Orchards – Warwick, NY

Stepping onto Apple Dave’s property feels like walking into a Norman Rockwell painting, except with better snacks. The pick-your-own section sprawls across rolling hills where you can pluck Honeycrisps, Galas, and McIntosh apples straight from the branch. My personal mission every visit involves eating at least one apple before I even reach the checkout—call it quality control.

Their apple cider donuts arrive hot from the fryer, dusted with cinnamon sugar that sticks to your fingers in the most delightful way. The farm activities keep kids entertained for hours, from hayrides to corn mazes that actually challenge adults too. Pack a cooler because you’ll want to bring home way more than you planned.

Open weekends through October, this spot gets crowded fast, so arrive early or embrace the chaos.

Lawrence Farms Orchard – Newburgh, NY

Family-owned since forever, Lawrence Farms radiates that authentic farmstead vibe where everyone knows the owners and the apple varieties by heart. Their Pick Your Own section offers a treasure hunt through neatly maintained rows of trees heavy with fruit. I once filled an entire bushel basket thinking I’d make pies—spoiler: I ate most of them raw within a week.

The homemade apple cider donuts here taste like childhood memories you didn’t know you had, with a tender crumb and just enough spice. Their farm stand overflows with local honey, jams, and seasonal produce that make perfect gifts or pantry staples. The atmosphere stays relaxed even on busy weekends, with plenty of space to roam without bumping into crowds.

Bring cash for the farm stand, though they do accept cards at the main building.

Apple Ridge Orchards – Warwick, NY

Warwick clearly won the lottery when it comes to apple orchards, and Apple Ridge proves that theory beautifully. The rustic charm hits you immediately—weathered barns, vintage tractors, and views that belong on a postcard. Their apple selection runs deep, with varieties you won’t find at grocery stores, perfect for baking or snacking depending on your mood.

Pumpkins dot the fields like orange jewels waiting to be claimed for your Halloween porch display. The donut station operates like a well-oiled machine, churning out warm circles of heaven faster than you can devour them. My trick involves buying a dozen and pretending they’ll last the car ride home—they never do.

Weekday visits offer more elbow room if you prefer a quieter experience. Their Instagram feed showcases seasonal updates worth following.

Hicks Orchard – Glens Falls, NY

Up near the Adirondacks, Hicks Orchard delivers that authentic farm experience without the tourist trap vibe that plagues some popular spots. Their U-Pick operation lets you wander freely through mature trees producing apples so crisp they practically shatter when you bite them. I appreciate that they mark which varieties are ready each week, saving you from guessing games.

Fresh donuts appear daily, alongside gallons of cold cider that taste like autumn in liquid form. The farm atmosphere stays genuine—no inflatable bounce houses or face painting, just honest agricultural tourism. Families appreciate the straightforward approach: pick fruit, buy treats, enjoy the countryside without manufactured entertainment.

The drive up Route 9 showcases stunning fall foliage worth the trip alone. Call ahead for variety availability during peak season.

Owen Orchards – Weedsport, NY

Central New York’s hidden gem, Owen Orchards attracts families who return generation after generation for good reason. The apple selection caters to every preference, from tart Granny Smiths perfect for pies to sweet Fujis that kids devour like candy. Their picking area provides wagons and bags, making the harvest easier when little ones inevitably get tired halfway through.

Cider donuts here achieve cult status among locals, with a recipe that balances sweetness and spice perfectly. The farm maintains a low-key atmosphere where you can actually hear birds chirping instead of loudspeakers announcing activities. I love that they focus on what matters—quality fruit and exceptional baked goods—without unnecessary bells and whistles.

Their farm stand also sells fresh vegetables and local products worth exploring. October weekends fill up quickly, so weekday visits offer better parking.

Golden Harvest Farms – Valatie, NY

Even without a pick-your-own option, Golden Harvest Farms earns its spot through sheer donut excellence and apple variety. Their roadside stand operates like a neighborhood gathering spot where locals swap recipes and autumn plans. The pre-picked apples come fresh daily, sorted by type and quality, saving you orchard time while delivering premium fruit.

But honestly, people pilgrimage here for those legendary apple cider donuts that sell out before noon on weekends. The texture hits differently—crispy exterior giving way to a tender, flavorful interior that tastes like concentrated autumn. I’ve watched people buy three dozen at once, and honestly, I don’t judge them one bit.

Their seasonal hours vary, so check their website before making the trip. The farm also offers local honey and preserves that complement their apples beautifully.

Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard – Fly Creek, NY

Near Cooperstown, this historic mill combines apple picking with cider pressing demonstrations that fascinate kids and adults equally. Watching the old machinery transform fresh apples into golden cider connects you to agricultural history in tangible ways. Their orchard produces apples specifically selected for cider production, though plenty of eating varieties fill the picking section too.

The mill’s bakery produces exceptional cider donuts using their own pressed cider, creating a closed-loop deliciousness that tastes like pure autumn magic. Their gift shop rivals small museums with local crafts, specialty foods, and unique items you won’t find elsewhere. I always budget extra time here because rushing through feels criminal when everything deserves attention.