Crisp mornings, colorful leaves, and the smell of cider in the air. Fall in Maryland practically begs you to grab a sweater and head outside. One of the best ways to soak it all in is apple picking. Even though Annapolis doesn’t have orchards of its own, there are plenty of farms just a short drive away where you can fill a basket with all your favorite apples. It is the perfect family outing and you’ll love coming home with apples for pies, cider, or just a crunchy snack straight from the tree.
Check out a list of some of our favorite spots to pick apples!
Baugher’s Orchards (Westminster, MD)
A trip to Baugher’s is as much about the experience as it is about the apples. After grabbing your picking containers and riding the wagon out to the fields, you’ll be guided to the ripest spots for filling your bags. Once you’ve had your fill of apples, the fun doesn’t stop! Baugher’s also has a free petting zoo that’s loaded with everything from donkeys and lambs to peacocks, emus, and plenty of goats (they’ll happily come running to greet you if you bring snacks). Don’t skip the Orchard Market, where shelves are stacked with fresh produce, homemade pies, pastries, apple butter, jams, and their famous fresh-pressed cider.
Butler’s Orchard (Germantown, MD)
If you want the ultimate fall day trip, Butler’s Orchard has it all. Apple picking is open on weekends while supplies last. They do have a limited crop this year due to a late spring chill that impacted their crops. Keep an eye out on their website and social media for updates.
Catoctin Orchard (Thurmont, MD)
With more than 10 apple varieties to pick from, Catoctin Orchard is a classic fall stop. U-Pick is open on weekends, and entry is $3 per person, which includes a wagon ride to the fields. Pro tip: bring cash, since cards aren’t accepted in the orchard, and check their site or call ahead for weather updates. After apple picking, swing by the market for fresh produce, baked goods, and even cut-your-own flowers.
Homestead Farm (Poolesville, MD)
If you’re looking for a simple, laid-back apple picking experience, Homestead Farm is the spot. Apple season usually runs through October. Again, due to a late spring chill, there’s only a limited amount of apples to pick from this year. Keep an eye out on their website and social media for updates. Admission is $4 per person (kids under one are free) and gets you into the orchard, plus access to farm animals, picnic areas, and a haystack play zone by the pond.
LARRILAND FARM (WOODBINE, MD)
Larriland has bright leaves, fields of pumpkins, and orchards full of apples ready to be picked. Apple season brings favorites like Autumn Crisp and Crimson Crisp, but keep in mind you’ll need to purchase farm containers before you enter the fields and everything you pick has to fit inside. Pro tip: arrive early — fields can close once the ripe fruit is gone.
Beyond the apples, Larriland packs in all the classic fall fun. Families can get lost in the straw maze, giggle through the not-too-scary Boo Barn, or hop on a hayride that crosses streams and rolls through the woods. On weekends, food trucks are available. With plenty of photo-worthy spots and a mix of cozy, spooky, and fun activities, Larriland is a must for anyone chasing that true fall festival vibe.
Weber’s Cider Mill Farm & PeachBerry Farm (Parkville & Glen Arm, MD)
Weber’s is a fall tradition for so many Maryland families, and for good reason. Apple picking happens at PeachBerry Farm in Glen Arm, but here’s the important part: you’ll need to pre-purchase a reservation online and show up at your scheduled time. Once your bags are filled, the real party kicks off at Weber’s Fall Harvest Days in Parkville. With live music, food trucks, hayrides, a family-friendly spooky walk, and plenty of kid-approved extras like gem mining and barrel train rides, you’ll easily make a whole day of it. Pro tip: reserve early because apple picking slots go fast.
Before you load everyone in the car, take a minute to check the farm’s website or socials. Apples can sell out fast, and weather sometimes changes things at the last minute. A quick peek online will save you from any surprises and make sure your family gets the most out of your day apple picking. See you at the orchard! It’s going to be a core-geous fall.
This is just a roundup of a few spots we know and love — not a complete list of every option out there. There are always more great places to discover!
Annapolis Moms Deal Drop | Sept. 17, 2026