With the University of Minnesota developing many of the new beloved varieties including Honeycrisp, SweeTango and Zestar!, Apple picking has become a celebrated past time in Minnesota. We’ve compiled a list of some of the orchards around the twin cities that give families a chance to get outside, enjoy the fall weather and pick their own apples. Some orchards offer additional attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Aamodt’s Apple Farm– Stillwater, MN

Afton Apple Orchards– Hastings, MN

Applewood Orchard, Lakeville, MN

Fischer’s Croix Farm Orchard– Hastings, MN

Apple Jack Orchards– Delano, MN

Emma Krumbee’s– Belle Plain, MN

Minnetonka Orchards– Mound, MN

For a larger list of orchards and apple picking destinations, click here. Once you have your haul from apple picking, try a new recipe to enjoy one of fall’s best treats. We’ve included a few below.

Kale and Apple Salad Click here to get the full recipe and details. Recipe courtesy of Food Network.com

Applesauce in the Slow Cooker

Click here to get the full recipe and details. Recipe courtesy of thekitchn.com

Traditional Apple Pie

Click here to get the full recipe and details. Recipe courtesy of Tasteofhome.com

We hope you enjoy a fun-filled day and plenty of apple dishes throughout the fall months. Maybe we will see you at one of the orchards soaking up the fall weather and collecting our own ingredients for the recipes.