Best Apple Orchards to Visit in Atlanta for Fall Fun

Published May 24, 2024

Last Updated August 21, 2025

Fall season in Georgia means crisp air, colorful leaves, and the perfect time for fall family experiences like taking a day trip to the North Georgia mountains for apple picking in the Atlanta-area orchards. 
Highway 52 near Ellijay is sometimes called Apple Orchard Alley for the many apple orchards available to the public. These family-friendly farms offer everything from you-pick apples and bakery treats to pony rides and pumpkin patches. Here’s your guide to the apple picking near Atlanta you won’t want to miss.

Apple Picking Hotspots Around Atlanta

These apple orchards near Atlanta offer more than just you-pick apples—they’re packed with outdoors family-friendly activities, farm markets, homemade pies, and stunning North Georgia mountain views. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a full weekend getaway, these places bring a ton of seasonal fun.

Hillcrest Orchards

Hillcrest Orchards in the North Georgia mountains has a bakery, market, tractor tours and a petting farm, not to mention many more children’s activities. The orchard features both you-pick options and apples already bagged in the market. 

Where: 9696 GA-52, Ellijay

When: Opens weekend of August 30, runs weekends through October (or until apples are gone)

Hours: Wednesdays–Sundays, 9 AM–6 PM in September & October; November hours shift to 9 AM–5 PM

Admission: Weekdays $8; weekends (Apple Pickin’ Jubilee festival) $12

BJ Reece Orchards

Pick your own apples at this large orchard in Ellijay or buy them in the adjacent store. BJ Reece also has many things to do for the kids such as a petting zoo, pony rides, corn maze, and apple cannons. Hit the  open year-round bakery for fresh apple cider, fried pies, fresh vegetables and other treats. 

Where: 9131 GA-52, Ellijay

When: You-Pick and farm activities open August 23 through October 31, 2025

Hours: Mon–Sat 9 AM–6 PM; Sun 1 PM–6 PM; last U-Pick tickets at 5 PM

Admission: Prices range from $8 to $26 depending on the included activities

Mercier Orchards

This family-owned apple orchard in Blue Ridge has a gift shop, lunch counter, tractor rides and great apple pies. You can either buy or pick the fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and apples that are available according to the season at Mercier Orchards. U-Pick and Tractor Tours are subject to weather and availability. Visit the website to see what’s in season and to plan your visit.

Where: 8660 Blue Ridge Dr, Blue Ridge

When: Seasonal fruits—apples, berries, peaches—vary by year. U-Pick and tractor tours depend on weather—check the website for specifics.

Hours: Monday–Thursday: 9 AM to 5 PM; Friday–Sunday: 8 AM to 5:30 PMAdmission: No general admission fee

Georgia Apple Festival

Celebrate fall at the Georgia Apple Festival in Ellijay, one of North Georgia’s most beloved seasonal events. Visitors can explore over 250 vendors selling handmade arts, crafts, and local goods, enjoy live music and entertainment, indulge in apple-themed foods like pies and cider, and watch on-site artisan demonstrations. Additional highlights include a Saturday parade, classic car show, and a community 5K run/walk. The festival is held rain or shine, with free parking on-site, making it a perfect fall outing for families and apple enthusiasts alike.

Where: 1729 South Main Street, Ellijay

When: October 11–12 and October 18–19

Hours: Saturday 9 AM to 6 PM; Sunday 9 AM to 5 PMAdmission: 10 for adults and free for children under 12

For more things to do as the cooler weather hits, check out these 17 best things to do in fall for Atlanta families or our guide to fall in Atlanta.

Apple Picking in Atlanta, Georgia FAQs

When is apple picking season in Georgia?

Apple picking season in Georgia typically goes from mid-August through late October, with specific openings: Hillcrest starts around August 30 and BJ Reece from August 23 through October 31 (for 2025)

What’s the best apple orchard near Atlanta for families with kids?

Hillcrest offers numerous kid-friendly carnival attractions; BJ Reece provides interactive fun like apple cannons, ponies, corn maze, and petting zoo.

Are dogs allowed at apple orchards in Atlanta?

BJ Reece allows leashed dogs in orchards (not inside buildings). Hillcrest does not allow pets.

Are there bakery or snack options onsite at Atlanta apple orchards?

Yes! Both Hillcrest and BJ Reece boast bakery treats like cider doughnuts, apple fritters, fried pies, plus farm markets with seasonal produce.

What apple varieties are in season during fall in North Georgia?

North Georgia apple orchards near Atlanta grow dozens of apple varieties throughout the season. Early fall brings classics like Ginger Gold, Gala, and Honeycrisp. By late September and October, you’ll find Rome Beauty, Mutsu, Winesap, Fuji, and Arkansas Black. Availability changes weekly, so always check the orchard’s picking report before your visit.

What should I bring to apple orchards near Atlanta?

For the best apple picking in Georgia, pack comfortable walking shoes or boots, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Bring cash or a card for admission, orchard bags, and treats like cider doughnuts or fried pies. A hat, light jacket, and wipes for sticky hands are also helpful. If you’re visiting with kids, a stroller or wagon makes hauling both apples and little ones easier.