There is nothing quite like autumn in the Virginia mountains. One of the most wonderful and thrilling experiences of the fall is the opportunity to pick fresh apples for delicious seasonal recipes, and select the perfect pumpkins to complete your autumn home décor. We have selected some of the area’s most accessible apple orchards and pumpkins patches for your family to enjoy!
2122 Sheep Creek Rd, Bedford, VA 24523 540-586-3707
A family owned and operated farm; Johnson’s Orchard is a nestled quaintly in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. More than just apples, Johnson's Orchard hosts a general store selling fresh cider in season, apple butter, a winery, jellies, jams, honey mustard and a variety of other delicious goods. This is a great place to purchase a bushel of apples, stock up on fresh cider, and do some tasty Christmas shopping! Be sure to check the hours of operation before you set off on your adventure, as the hours vary by season.
January – March: on weekends noon-5pm.
April – December: daily noon-5pm.
August – October: FRUIT is harvest (call ahead to be sure).
6210 Fort Ave, Lynchburg, VA 24502 434-316-4224
This is an autumn afternoon paradise with their pumpkin patch in full swing from September 24th – November 7th. If you’re planning to decorate your home with pumpkins this fall, look no further!
For a set price, there are numerous activities for the kiddos, these include bounce houses, teepees, and hay bales as well as pumpkin and face painting!
If your stomach starts to rumble while you’re roaming, stop by concessions for hot dogs, nachos and hot chocolate for sale on site!
Finally, groups and field trips are welcome, a perfect place for school trips, youth groups, community groups and families. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, be sure to mention Lynchburg’s Finest at the entrance for $1 off admission! Don’t miss out on this special deal from Smith’s Pumpkin Patch!
226 Tobacco Row Ln. Monroe VA, 24574 434-929-2401
This spot is not too far from Lynchburg; Morris Orchard is producing from June-October with a detailed schedule on their website of what is available, including some delicious “pick your own” options in September and October.
During the summer months, call ahead to learn about the availability of blueberries, peaches, blackberries, delicious sweet corn and crisp summer vegetables.
In the cooler months, make plans to try the fresh pressed apple cider, this is the real deal with no preservatives and containing only yummy apples. You can also plan to find cider doughnuts, pumpkins and gourds.
Open 9am-5pm and closed on Sunday. Be sure to call ahead!
For more ideas of fun things to do in Lynchburg, keep an eye on the Lynchburg's Finest blog.
Written by Anna Cribb