Apple Orchards Near the Twin Cities

There are few outdoor events as entertaining and fully satisfying as picking apples. Apple orchards have largely transformed from simple patches of apple trees into community gatherings chock full of unique activities, games and delicious apple treats. If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity in the twin cities, you may want to visit one of several local apple orchards.

1. Pine Tree Apple Orchard

Located a short drive north of St. Paul, Pine Tree Apple Orchard is well known for its autumn beauty. Visitors can tour the sprawling cornfields and groves of apple trees by foot, on the back of a pony, or in a hay wagon. Pine Tree Apple Orchard has several different types of apples and is also a favorite location for strawberry and pumpkin picking. The apples, pumpkins and strawberries are used to create pies and other baked goods at the famous Pine Tree Apple Orchard bakery. Guests can also enjoy homemade apple cider and caramel apples.

2. Apple Jack Orchards

With over 10,000 trees and almost 30 varieties of Minnesota apples, Apple Jack is a great place to pick apples, strawberries and raspberries. This sustainable farm is certified by the Food Alliance, which means it is devoted to using agricultural practices that are kind to Mother Nature. Kids love the Apple Jack petting zoo, complete with goats, turkeys and chickens. Other Apple Jack children's activities include the Apple Cannon, the Cow Train, and a huge corn maze.

3. Afton Apple Orchard

A visit to Afton Apple Orchard is always fun, but especially during the Apple Festival in early October. Festivities include face painting, cider press demonstrations, a petting zoo and of course, hay rides through the 200 acre apple orchard. Afton Apple Orchard also is a great place to hold special events such as family reunions, award ceremonies, or even weddings. The rental hall and outdoor reception area seats up to 300 people at several indoor and outdoor banquet tables. Better yet, Afton Apple Orchard provides old-fashioned horse carriage tours for event guests.

4. Minnesota State Fair

The apple orchards at the Little Farm Hands center provide just one more reason to stop by the great Minnesota get-together. Kids can wear special Farm Hand aprons and go apple picking. These Farm Hands are in charge of selling whatever they pick at the apple orchard. They are rewarded with play money, which they can use to buy delicious treats at the Farm Hands grocery store.