09/26/2024
Experience the Joy of Apple Picking in Cayuga County This Fall!
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to change, Cayuga County, New York, transforms into a stunning backdrop for one of the season’s most cherished traditions: apple picking. With its sprawling orchards and picturesque landscapes, this region offers not only a bounty of fresh, delicious apples but also a unique opportunity for families and friends to create lasting memories together. We invite you to explore the joys of U-pick apple season in Cayuga County and share this delightful experience with your audience. Cayuga County is home to numerous apple orchards, each offering a variety of apple types, from sweet Honeycrisps to tart Granny Smiths.
Many orchards host special events, such as cider tastings, hayrides, and live music, making a day of apple picking a full family outing. Visitors can enjoy the simple pleasure of wandering through rows of trees, picking their own apples, and indulging in homemade treats from on-site bakeries. This immersive experience not only connects people to the land but also fosters a deeper appreciation for local agriculture and the fruits of the season.
Beyond the bounty of apples, the picturesque landscape of Cayuga County adds to the charm of this beloved fall activity. The rolling hills, vibrant foliage, and serene lakes create a stunning backdrop for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Many orchards also offer picnic areas, allowing visitors to savor their freshly picked apples and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or an adventurous pluck from the ripest branch, the experience is sure to ignite the joy of fall.
Here are some self-picking (U-Pick) orchards to visit in Cayuga County:
- Grisamore Farms, 4069 Goose St, Locke, P: 315-497-1347 More info
- Ontario Orchard, 15273 Sterling Center Rd, Sterling, P: 315-343-6328 More info
- Owen Orchards Cider Mill and Farm Market, 8174 Grant Ave, Weedsport, P: 315-252-4097 More info
- The Apple Station, 5279 Cross Rd, Cayuga, P: 315-889-5184 More info
October Brings 27th Annual Wayne County Apple Tasting Tour
The award-winning Wayne County Apple Tasting Tour is returning for its 27th year this October. As the largest apple-producing county in New York State, Wayne County has welcomed apple lovers from across the state to enjoy its fall celebration since 1997. Throughout the month, visitors can pick crisp apples, enjoy the stunning autumn colors, and take part in family-friendly activities. From corn mazes and tractor rides to wine and cider tastings, there’s something for everyone—friends, couples, and families alike.
The tour’s app is available for download on Google Play and the Apple App Store, offering an interactive way to explore each stop. Visitors can also access the app by clicking the app buttons at AppleTastingTour.com or picking up a paper guide at any tour location.
Returning for its third year, participants will find that their “passport” acts as a game board. There will be a letter(s) at each stop for the visitors to find. Collect each letter and solve the word jumble to be eligible for the grand prize raffle at the end of October.
Wayne County Tourism has partnered with nine local businesses to host this self-guided tour, with apple-themed activities taking place throughout October at farm markets, orchards, wineries, and cideries.
The Signature Tasting Weekend experience is back from October 11-14, with extra celebrations planned along the trail. Stay updated on special events by following the Apple Tasting Tour Facebook page.
Throughout October, visitors are invited to:
- Enjoy wine tastings at Young Sommer Winery and JD Wine Cellars at Long Acre Farms.
- Try a glass of hard cider at Embark Craft Ciderworks at Lagoner Farms or Old Goat Cidery at The Apple Shed.
- Pick their own apples at one of the many farms and apple orchards on the tour.
- Escape the Amazing Maize Maze at Long Acre Farms.
- Find their new favorite apple at one of the nine farm stops.
- Stock up on fall goodies like fresh pies, apple salsa, and homemade preserves.
- Take home colorful mums and bright orange pumpkins.
- Enjoy delicious food and drinks at The Bay Street Restaurant or Saltbox Smokehouse.
Apple Tasting Tour Farm Stops:
- Burnap’s Farm Market & Garden Café, 7277 Maple Avenue, Sodus
- Lagoner Farms & Embark Craft Ciderworks, 6895 Lake Avenue, Williamson
- Long Acre Farms & JD Wine Cellars, 1342 Eddy Road, Macedon
- Morgan’s Farm Market, 3821 Cory Corners Road, Marion
- Orbakers Farm Market, 3451 Lake Road, Williamson
- The Apple Farm Stand at Stone Goose Farms 5630 Norris Road, North Rose
- The Apple Shed & Old Goat Cidery, 3391 Fairville-Maple Ridge Road, Newark
- Young Sommer Winery, 4287 Jersey Road, Williamson
- Youngman Orchards Farm, 7902 Lake Rd, Sodus Point
Apple Tasting Tour Sponsors:
- The Bay Street Restaurant, 8427 Bay Street, Sodus Point
- The Saltbox Smokehouse, 6152 Barclay Road, Sodus
For information and directions to each site, visit www.appletastingtour.com, use the app or call Wayne County Tourism at 315-946-5469.
