5 Best Places for Apple Picking and Fall Fun Near Charlotte in 2026

There’s something special about a crisp fall day spent outdoors, basket in hand, picking fresh apples straight from the tree. If you’re looking for a fun fall outing near Charlotte, you don’t have to travel all the way to the mountains to enjoy the season.

We’ve rounded up five farms and orchards within about an hour of Charlotte that are worth adding to your fall calendar. From apple picking and hayrides to cider, pumpkins, and other seasonal activities, these destinations make it easy to enjoy a classic taste of fall.

1. Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery — York, SC

If apple picking is at the top of your fall bucket list, Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery is a great place to start. Located in York, South Carolina, the orchard is approximately 45–60 minutes from Charlotte and offers a full fall farm experience.

The 2026 U-pick apple season begins September 11 and typically continues into October, depending on the crop. Pricing starts at approximately $8.50 for a ¼ peck of apples, with reservations required for U-pick.

After filling your basket, enjoy fresh cider, cider donuts, and other seasonal treats. It’s an easy way to turn apple picking into a full afternoon adventure.

2. Carrigan Farms — Mooresville, NC

For one of the closest apple-picking experiences to Charlotte, head north to Carrigan Farms in Mooresville.

Apple picking returns in September 2026, with the season generally continuing into early October. A later crop, including varieties such as Evercrisp and Gold Rush, are expected around October 10–23, depending on growing conditions.

The experience includes a tractor-drawn hayride to the apple trees, where guests can pick their own apples. A half-peck bag holds approximately 5–6 pounds of apples, making it a fun activity for families.

The most recently published admission price is approximately $15 per person ages 2 and up, although visitors should confirm 2026 pricing when reservations open.

3. Bush-N-Vine Farm — York, SC

Located just across the state line in York, Bush-N-Vine Farm is another popular destination for a fall day trip from Charlotte.

While apple availability can vary from year to year, the farm offers plenty of seasonal activities and locally grown produce. It’s a great option for families looking to spend a few hours outdoors and enjoy the sights and flavors of the season.

Be sure to check the farm’s current 2026 schedule before heading out, as U-pick offerings and availability can change based on the crop.

4. Black's Peaches — York, SC

Despite its name, Black's Peaches offers more than summer peaches. The York farm transitions into fall with seasonal activities and farm experiences that make it worth a visit from the Charlotte area.

Fall offerings and pricing vary throughout the season, so check the current schedule before planning your trip.

If you're looking for a casual fall outing that combines farm scenery with seasonal activities, Black's is a great option.

5. Patterson Farm Market & Tours — Mount Ulla, NC

For a full day of fall fun, Patterson Farm is a wonderful option for families. Located in Mount Ulla, about 45–60 minutes from Charlotte, the farm combines seasonal activities, a farm market, animals, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.

While Patterson Farm is not currently advertising apple U-pick for 2026, it offers many of the classic fall activities families are looking for, including Fall Fun on the Farm, a corn maze, pumpkins, farm attractions, and seasonal photo opportunities.

The farm’s 2026 Fall Half Season Pass is $69.99 plus processing and is valid from August 1 through December 31, 2026. Individual fall activities and admission options vary, so check the farm’s current schedule before visiting.

And don’t leave without stopping by the market and ice cream shop for a sweet treat!

Make a Day of It

Apple picking is just the beginning of the fun. Many farms and orchards offer additional activities such as hayrides, pumpkin patches, cider, cider donuts, farm animals, corn mazes, and outdoor games.

For the best experience, check each farm's website before you go. Apple availability depends on growing conditions, and dates, admission prices, reservations, and activities can change throughout the season.

Our Top Picks

Best for apple picking: Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery

Closest traditional apple-picking experience: Carrigan Farms

Best for a family fall outing: Bush-N-Vine Farm

Best for a casual farm visit: Black's Peaches

Best for seasonal activities: Patterson Farms 

Whether you’re filling a basket with crisp apples, sipping fresh cider, or simply enjoying a beautiful fall afternoon outdoors, these farms offer plenty of ways to make the most of the season—and they’re all close enough to Charlotte for an easy day trip.

So grab your favorite sweater, gather the family, and make a little room in the calendar for apple picking, fresh cider, and a taste of fall. 🍎🍂