Orchards Near Me
Apple Picking in Illinois: What You Need to Know
Illinois is home to a range of spots for apple picking, spread across the state's different growing regions. This page rounds up every apple picking location listed in Illinois so you can compare distance, ratings, and reviews before deciding where to go.
Orchard Country in the Midwest
The Midwest's apple orchards benefit from the Great Lakes' moderating influence in the northern tier of the region, while the river valleys and sheltered glacial terrain of states like Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois provide enough protection for productive orchards to operate successfully. Michigan is the agricultural powerhouse of the region, producing more apples than any state except Washington, but the orchards of Ohio, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and even the Great Plains states offer pick-your-own experiences that draw local families each fall. The varieties grown in the Midwest include Honeycrisp—developed at the University of Minnesota—alongside classics like Jonathan, Cortland, and Golden Delicious that thrive in the continental climate.
Best Time for Apple Picking in Illinois
September through October for most mid-season varieties, with the orchards in southern Illinois starting slightly earlier due to the warmer climate.
Tips for Apple Picking in Illinois
Call ahead or check a location's website before visiting, since hours and availability for apple picking can change with the weather and time of year. Weekday visits are usually less crowded than weekends.