Fall is here, and we are READY! With that comes all of the fall activities. Pumpkin patches (stay tuned for more on this!), festivals, and apple picking. My family goes apple picking every year, and has since my 6 year old was a baby. We love the apple picking tradition, and mix it up with new orchards in the Kansas City area every couple of years. I’ve done research, and am happy to share some of our favorite u-pick apple orchards in Kansas City for kids, toddlers, and babies.
- Sunflower Orchards – This one is a hidden gem! If you are looking purely for apple picking (no frills, no fall activities) – this is for you. Rows and rows of apples, several different varieties. We went last year and it was not busy, room for everyone to leisurely stroll and take their time picking. Be sure to check Facebook for hours/availability before heading out. We will definitely be back to this orchard!
- Gieringers Family Orchard – Gieringers is a favorite! They have so many different u-pick options throughout the seasons, including apples. They have 19 varieties and have been growing since 2020. Gieringers also have a variety of kids activities and snacks available, as well as produce for sale. Be sure to check Facebook for their hours based on crop available before making the drive.
- Johnson Farms – With over 5,000 apple trees in several varieties, and 23,000 farm-grown mums, Johnson Farms is one of the most popular fall spots for Kansas Citians. They have been offering U-Pick for over 22 years, and have perfected the fall activities. Corn pit, playground, baby goats, fall themed snacks and drinks… the list goes on! If you like fall mums, they have the best selection.
- Cider Hill Family Orchard – This is the only orchard that I haven’t personally visited, but it’s on our list for next time! Cider Hill Family Orchard is 38 acres and has 6000 apple trees, with 18 different apple varieties. Their season is late July through early November. They also have some yummy treats like cider donuts, cider slush, apple crisp, and more.
Wherever you end up picking this year, I hope you have the best time! Fall in the midwest is so special. Soak it in and have all of the family fun that you can!
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Melanie Soltz is a Kansas City Newborn Photographer and specializes in maternity, newborn, baby, and family photography. Areas served (but not limited to) include Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa, Olathe, Lee’s Summit, Kansas City, Brookside, Shawnee, Prairie Village, Johnson County, and surrounding areas. Natural light photography studio located in Overland Park, serving the entire Kansas City area. Contact me to learn more.
