Photograph courtesy of Southern Belle Farm
The temperatures are dropping and fall foliage is starting to make an appearance. This means that it’s time to head to the farm to pick some apples and pumpkins. To find them you’ll have to head out of the city limits, but it’s worth it when you feel the satisfaction of plucking an apple off its tree. As a bonus, these farms are also Insta-worthy and have the all trappings of a good time (hayride, anyone?).
Editor’s note 9/28/20: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some activities and items may be unavailable—please check each venue’s website and/or social media before visiting.
Big Springs Farm
You don’t need to travel far to get to Big Springs Farm, just outside the city in Woodstock. This is the place to come if you need a pumpkin as they boast several varieties (we can’t help but swoon over the charmingly named Cinderella Pumpkin). They even have massive pumpkins that weigh up to 50 pounds. Unlike some of the other farms, Big Springs doesn’t charge admission to enter their pumpkin patch. While you’re there, say hello to their animal friends that include Willie the pig and Gizmo the goat. 2100 Sugar Pike Road Woodstock
Scottsdale Farms
There’s more to Scottsdale Farms than a pumpkin patch (although they do have a great one). At the 65-acre Milton farm, you’ll also find a plant nursery and a 12,000-square-foot barn filled with country chic furniture and home decor. The pumpkin patch is definitely ‘grammable with plenty of benches, truck beds, and swings to snap a photo on. If the hunger pangs set in, they have a cafe on the farm, too, with light fare such as açaí bowls and salads. 15639 Birmingham Highway, Milton
B.J. Reece Orchards
If you’re looking for the quintessential fall experience you’ll want to drive north to Ellijay. There you’ll find B.J. Reece Orchards, where you can pick apples alongside panoramic mountain views. The farm has several apple varieties available throughout the season including Pink Ladies, Yates, and Fuji. If you want to participate in their “farm fun,” you have to visit on Saturdays. Admission starts at $5 and includes a wagon ride, cow milking, pig races, and a trip down the giant slide. 9131 Highway 52 East Ellijay
Photograph courtesy of Mercier Orchards
Mercier Orchards
Found in Blue Ridge, Mercier’s orchard checks in at 300 acres, making it one of the largest north Georgia farms. It gets packed during October weekends, so try to be patient as you pick apples around the selfie-takers. [Editor’s note 9/28/20: U-pick is currently unavailable due to the pandemic.] Apple picking is the star here, but don’t skip their other treats. Mercier’s fried apple hand pies are mandatory, and they recently opened a hard cider tasting room featuring different flavors such as Grumpy Granny (with Granny Smith apples) and Black Bee (with Arkansas Black apples). They have a pumpkin patch, too, but just know that it’s $5 to enter in addition to the cost of the pumpkin you might purchase. 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge
Southern Belle Farm
Southern Belle resides in McDonough, about 30 minutes southeast of Atlanta. Here, you’ll find a touch of whimsy in their u-pick flower fields, which include zinnias. When you’re done getting lost in the blooms, get lost in their 4-acre corn maze and pumpkin patch. Swing by their country market for a selection of jams, ciders, and honey. You can get a sweet fix at Mimi’s Bakery, where they sell baked goods and homemade ice cream. 658 Turner Church Road McDonough
