Looking for Apples in Southeast Minnesota?

Soon it will be apple time! There is nothing like going to the orchard and taking a bite from that orchard fresh apple. The flavor is so rich, the flesh so juicy, you just can't beat it! If you are planning to visit the southeast Minnesota area, here are some great options for an apple orchard to visit. This area of Minnesota is rich with apple history and has hundreds of acres devoted to the production of fresh apples!

In the very southeast portion of Minnesota lies the small town of La Crescent. La Crescent is actually translated from the French word to mean the apple. This is why this small town of about 6,000 people has a very rich apple history. You can find apple orchards and booths scattered throughout this small town and throughout the surrounding rural areas. La Crescent is known as the Apple Capitol of Minnesota.

One of the largest apple sales places is Bauer's Market and Nursery. Bauer's is a complete nursery that is open year round with the features of the season. Once fall approaches the shelves that have been filled with flowers and plants are now stocked with apples. Bauer's has the greatest selection of apples in the area, with apples in stock until March. Bauer's is located conveniently on Highway 14 along the town's main road. You can't miss Bauer's Market and Nursery as you are passing through town!

Another great place to buy apples in La Crescent is Leidel's Apple Stand. Leidel's is a family run orchard that carries over 25 different apple varieties. In August the stand is full of sweet corn, and you can often find raspberries, squash and pumpkins, various produce and much more! Leidel's apple stand is located on the south edge of town along highway 14. The orchard is just outside of town on Apple Blossom Scenic Drive.

La Crescent holds an annual apple festival known as Applefest. This festival is scheduled for the third weekend in September. The 2007 dates are September 13-16. A parade, demolition derby, royalty contest and a "Run to the Edge" run/walk are all scheduled as part of the festival.

Another great town in southeast Minnesota to sample apples is Lake City. Lake City is located along highway 61 next to the Mississippi River. This town is home to Lake Pepin as well. Many apple orchards have made their home along the top ridge of the river bluffs and make for some spectacular scenery.

One of the most popular apple orchard sites is Bushel and Peck Orchard and Market. Bushel and Peck Orchard is located 4 miles north of Lake City on highway 61. There are so many fun things to do at this orchard. Starting in summer you can pick your own strawberries to enjoy. Once fall rolls around, you can enjoy the great taste of freshly grown Minnesota apples. They also have a pumpkin patch, petting zoo and picnic area.

Oak Ridge Orchard is located 5 miles from Lake City on Goodhue County Rd 5. This orchard is open from September through November and carries 20 varieties of apples. Wildlife abounds throughout this rustic valley where you can see deer, turkeys and many other wildlife animals. Oak Ridge Orchard even has fresh honey and pumpkins.

Pepin Heights Orchard is another option for fresh apples in the Lake City, MN area. Pepin Heights Orchard is one of the largest orchards in the area. This orchard is located south of Lake City on Highway 61. You can find fresh-pressed ciders, maple syrup, honey jams and other specialties at this orchard! Bakery treats and caramel apples are also a highlight of Pepin Heights Orchard.

Further west in Minnesota you will find the small town of Preston. Pine Tree Apple Orchards are located on County Road 17, northeast of Highway 52. Tours of the orchards are available from September until October and you can pick your own pumpkins and have a wagon ride in October. Gifts, jams, bakery goods and of course apples are the highlight of this great Pine Tree Apple Orchard.

If you continue along highway 61 heading north in Minnesota you will come across the beautiful town of Red Wing. Frontenac Hills Apple Farm is located 7 miles south of Red Wing with an address of 30202 Circle S Road. You can pick your own apples here as well as pumpkins and Indian corn. Frontenac Hills Apple Farm is famous for their special apple raspberry cider!

After visiting all these apple orchards, you'd be surprised at how many smaller orchards and apple stands you will see along the roads. Southeast Minnesota really is apple country, and they take pride in what they do!