Editor’s note: This story was originally published on October 3, 2019 and was updated on September 30, 2022.

Thanks to our many local orchards, the first crisp apples of autumn are here. For adults reliving the Halloween season with their kids, orchards are also a source of pumpkins, multicolored gourds, stalks of dried corn and other essential fall accessories. At more elaborate operations, there’s live music, hayrides, petting zoos, fishing and even beer gardens. During the winter holidays, some even offer Christmas trees.

This year’s weather has produced a banner year of flavorful apple selections (more than 30 varieties) at this small family-run orchard. Meander its 74 acres or peruse the petite onsite store for seasonal treats and décor.

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Not far from the Barnard’s property in Avondale, Glen Willow Orchard has been operated by the Rosazza family since 1955. In addition to its apple orchards, Glen Willow grows a lot of its own vegetables and has a well-stocked farm stand that includes local mushrooms. Its colorful field-grown mums are a special treat in the fall.

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Staymen, Ida Red, Winesap, Rome and many other varieties are ready for daily picking at this 200-acre family-owned farm between West Chester and Downingtown. Don’t have time to hit the orchard? Grab a seven-pound to-go bag. Also running through the end of the month are Fall Harvest weekends, which offer fresh baked pies, seasonal pastries and legendary hot apple cider donuts. Kid-friendly pumpkin painting, carving and hayrides are also available during the Fall Harvest.

Known for organic farming, this small, family-owned farm has plenty of apples for picking. Grab a basket and hit the orchard for a $2.50 per person fee, plus a price per pound charge.

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Its peak season for apple picking at this area favorite. Look for a wealth of varieties, including Cameo, Jonagold, Mutsu, Red Delicious and Golden Delicious. Enjoy an old-fashioned hayride into the groves daily from 8 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. for a $6 entrance fee (picking boxes are extra). Don’t forget to tour the kid-friendly Pumpkinland, with its larger-than-life scarecrows and haunted figures, to get into the spirit of Halloween.

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Pick apples from dwarf trees at this farm, which has been active since the 1930s. Open six days a week, the farm is a must for Autumn Crisp, Crimson Crisp, Pixie Crunch, Gala, Macintosh and Smokehouse varieties with pre-pay bags. Shop for delicious baked goods, organic produce, local honey and deli items while you’re there. Don’t forget a stop at Kim’s Cafe for coffee and hot cider.

Related: 10 Farmers Markets to Visit Around the Main Line