Sweater weather is approaching, and I can't help but get excited! Fall is my favorite time of year, and one thing I love about it is, well...apple orchards! I have fond memories of going to Cziper's Orchard with my family as a kid, sipping apple cider, playing or joining whatever fun fall activity was being held, and overall enjoying the day. We'd leave with a few caramel apples or popcorn balls and I would be thrilled!

Iowa is full of beautiful and charming apple orchards that offer fun for all ages. So if you're looking for an autumn activity to get the family together, here are 5 orchards in Iowa that you should check out.

Cziper's Apple Orchard

As I mentioned before, I have fond childhood memories here, so of course I had to put them on the list. Cziper's is located in my hometown of Dubuque. They offer delicious sweet snacks and fresh apple cider, along with fun activities. In fact, they have an Apple Festival Weekend at the end of September each year. This year it will be Sept 25 and 26.

Allen's

Allen's is a U-pick orchard in Marion. During the season, which goes from August to October, they offer over 50 varieties of apples, along with a variety of other fruits and sometimes even pumpkins. They host fun and educational events, with the goal of passing on agricultural knowledge to the younger generation. They are also well known for their baked good. So go ahead, treat yourself. You deserve it!

The Big Apple Orchard

Located in Mount Vernon, The Big Apple Orchard is home to 2,000 apple trees of 22 different varieties. This makes it one of the biggest orchards in the state! That's definitely something to check out. Also, try their fresh apple doughnuts. If you can't tell, I love baked apple treats!

Center Grove Orchard

You can find Center Grover Orchard in - you guessed it - Center Grove, Iowa. With over 6,000 apple trees they offer a wide variety of apples and are ever-expanding in their varieties. They have an extensive menu that allows visitors to have a full meal along with their baked goodies, making it a great spot for a family outing.

3 Bee Farms Market and Orchard

3 Bee Farms in Griswold actually started out in 1993 as a honey farm. It wasn't until 2009 that they "branched out" into growing apple trees. They host regular events like a corn maze and hayrides, and they offer multiple fall-themed activities and games to keep the kiddos entertained. They truly have something to offer for everyone in the family.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
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I mentioned 5 of my favorites, but Iowa has many more farms and orchards to choose from. A beautiful fall day picking apples with your family and playing fun games is the perfect way to make memories that can last a lifetime. What are you waiting for?

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