Basket full of apples

Apple Picking, Cider & Donuts

Fall is fast approaching which means it is time to enjoy some outdoor fall festivities. Gather up the family and enjoy some fall activities together by heading out to some amazing apple orchards. Enjoy a donut and warm apple cider, walk a corn maze and take the kids over to the petting zoo but do not forget the apple picking.  There is guaranteed to be something for everyone to enjoy.  Here is a list of places that are near each of Gerstad Builders communities.

Stade’s Farm and Market, McHenry

Located 15 minutes from our Liberty Trails Community, Stade’s offers some of the best seasonal fruits and vegetables. Open weekends now through October, make sure to head out to the fields and pick your own apples such as; Blondees, Pixie Crunch, Gala and Honeycrisp. Not an apple fan? There are other options to choose from, such as raspberries, strawberries and green beans to pick while supplies last. Hayrides to the pumpkin patch will be available to pick out your own pumpkin. Once you are done in the fields make sure to visit their store to pick out some delicious bakery items and gourmet foods.

Edwards Apple Orchard, Poplar Grove

Open since 1964, this fourth-generation family owned farm offers over 100 acres of fruits and vegetables. For example; there are pumpkins, squash, berries, mums and don’t forget the apples. They have over 50,000 apple trees and 30 varieties to choose from. Guests can enjoy crisp apples, apple cider donuts and fresh warm apple cider. This farm is a seasonal business and is open September until November. Edwards is 10 minutes from The Trails of Dawson Creek Community.

Royal Oak Farm, Harvard

Only 20 minutes from The Trails of Pheasant Ridge Community, Royal Oak Farm began in 1992 and it has turned into a family affair. Get your compass ready for a walk in the Amaze ‘N Adventure apple tree maze. There is apple picking throughout the maze. Enjoy a 1.5 mile walk of trails with 9 varieties of apples to pick along the way. Stop in the shop on your way out to take home fall decor, gourmet jarred items, cider and much more.

Apple Barn Orchard and Winery, Elkhorn, WI

Our Bailey Estates Community is a 15 minute drive from this family owned farm for 150 years. Visitors to the farm can enjoy a variety of apples such as; Jonathan Gold, McIntosh, and Honey Crisp. The pumpkin patch is open on weekends with every shape and size available to pick. Complete your experience by visiting the Country Store and Bakery.

With the weather being so fabulous, now is the time to head out for some family apple picking time. Once you get home, make some applesauce and apple pie in your Gerstad kitchen so everyone can enjoy all the goodies.

If you are interested in learning more about Gerstad Builders communities, and owning a home that is near all of these amazing local events, contact us or call at (815) 385-4495!

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