Autumn apple harvest and fresh cider orchard setting near Chicago
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Best Apple Orchards Near Chicago (Fall 2026)

Apple picking is the quintessential companion to any pumpkin patch outing. Across northern and western Illinois, historic orchards offer U-pick Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Jonagold apples, paired with fresh-pressed unpasteurized sweet cider, warm cinnamon donuts, and homemade pies.

Expert Planning Tips for Your Outing

  • 🌾 Peak apple picking season runs from late August through early October — Honeycrisp peaks in mid-September.
  • 🌾 Always check harvest availability reports before driving out, as certain varieties sell out quickly on busy weekends.
  • 🌾 Look for firm apples with no bruises that snap cleanly off the branch when twisted upward.

Top Rated Farms for Apple Orchards & U-Pick Farms

Compare acreage, features, and distances from downtown Chicago.

Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm iconic pumpkin carriage and autumn festival grounds in Homer Glen, IL
All-Inclusive RidesHomer Glen, IL
38m fr Loop

Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm

Chicagoland's Premier Family Fall Festival & Pumpkin Farm

  • Location: 13341 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491
  • Hours: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
  • Rating: 4.8 (2480+ Google reviews)
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Sonny Acres historic red barn and antique tractor farmyard in West Chicago, IL
Free Entry OptionWest Chicago, IL
40m fr Loop

Sonny Acres Farm

Historic 1868 Fall Heritage Farm & Spooktacular Festival

  • Location: 29W130 North Ave, West Chicago, IL 60185
  • Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Haunted Nights)
  • Rating: 4.6 (1240+ Google reviews)
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Abbey Farms train station and 40-acre autumn parkland in Aurora, IL
12-Acre Corn MazeAurora, IL
45m fr Loop

Abbey Farms

40-Acre Non-Profit Fall Festival & Historic Fox Valley Tradition

  • Location: 2855 Hart Rd, Aurora, IL 60502
  • Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Rating: 4.7 (1410+ Google reviews)
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Siegel's Cottonwood Farm tractor in cornfield and heritage grounds in Lockport, IL
15-Acre Corn MazeLockport, IL
40m fr Loop

Siegel's Cottonwood Farm

40+ Fall Attractions & Authentic Heritage Farm

  • Location: 17250 Weber Rd, Lockport, IL 60441
  • Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Rating: 4.7 (1670+ Google reviews)
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Jack's Pumpkin Pop-Up illuminated night corn maze and Chicago skyline view on Goose Island
Downtown ChicagoChicago, IL
10m fr Loop

Jack's Pumpkin Pop-Up Chicago

Downtown Chicago's Largest Outdoor Fall Light Festival & Maze

  • Location: 1265 W Le Moyne St, Chicago, IL 60642
  • Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Rating: 4.4 (2100+ Google reviews)
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Local Answers

Apple Orchards & U-Pick Farms FAQs

Essential facts, ticket details, and seasonal planning questions answered for Fall 2026.

Mid-September through early October offers the widest selection of ripe Honeycrisp, Gala, and Jonathan apples.