As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air settles in, Rhode Island comes alive with the spirit of the fall season. One of the most beloved traditions for families, friends, and couples alike is heading to the local farms for apple and pumpkin picking. With its scenic orchards and vibrant pumpkin patches, Rhode Island offers the perfect setting for a day of outdoor fun, fresh air, and seasonal produce. In this blog, we’ll explore the joys of apple and pumpkin picking in the Ocean State and why it should be at the top of your fall bucket list.

Apple Picking in Rhode Island: A Flavorful Tradition

Rhode Island is home to some of New England’s most picturesque apple orchards. From the coastal farms to the inland countryside, apple picking is a cherished activity that brings together the best of the season: fresh fruit, beautiful landscapes, and family-friendly fun.

Why Apple Picking is a Must-Do
Apple picking is more than just harvesting fruit—it’s a full autumn experience. Rhode Island’s orchards offer a variety of apple types, each with unique flavors and uses. Whether you’re looking to bake a delicious pie, whip up some homemade applesauce, or simply snack on crisp, fresh apples, there’s something for everyone.

Popular apple varieties grown in Rhode Island include:

• McIntosh: Sweet and tart, perfect for snacking or baking.
• Honeycrisp: Known for its crisp texture and juicy flavor, a favorite for eating fresh.
• Gala: Sweet and mild, great for both eating and adding to salads.
• Cortland: Ideal for pies, as it holds its shape well during baking.

Many farms in Rhode Island offer pick-your-own experiences, where visitors can wander through the orchards, handpick their apples, and enjoy the natural beauty of the countryside. Some orchards even have hayrides, corn mazes, and farm stands selling apple cider, doughnuts, and other fall treats to make the day even more special.

Top Spots for Apple Picking in Rhode Island

• Barden Family Orchard in North Scituate: A family-run farm offering a wide variety of apples, along with pumpkins and other seasonal crops. Barden’s orchard is perfect for a relaxing day of apple picking, with a farm stand stocked with fresh apple cider and other homemade products.
• Appleland Orchard in Smithfield: A scenic spot for apple picking, this farm offers a variety of apples, along with fall activities for kids and families. Their apple pies and cider are also worth a stop at the farm store.
• Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown: Known for its stunning coastal views, Sweet Berry Farm offers apple picking in the fall, along with a market featuring fresh produce and baked goods.

Pumpkin Picking: The Perfect Pumpkin for Every Occasion

No fall season is complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch, and Rhode Island has plenty of them. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect pumpkin to carve into a spooky jack-o’-lantern or one to use for homemade pies and soups, Rhode Island’s pumpkin patches offer a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.

Why Visit a Pumpkin Patch?
Pumpkin picking is a fun and festive way to celebrate the fall season. It’s a great activity for families with kids, couples looking for a fall date idea, or even groups of friends. Many Rhode Island pumpkin patches go beyond just pumpkins, offering hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos to create an immersive fall experience. It’s the perfect opportunity to spend a day outdoors, get into the fall spirit, and take home a few pumpkins to decorate your home or whip up some autumn-inspired recipes.

Whether you’re looking for giant pumpkins to carve or smaller, decorative gourds, Rhode Island’s farms have it all. In addition to traditional orange pumpkins, many farms grow heirloom varieties that come in shades of white, green, and even blue.

Top Spots for Pumpkin Picking in Rhode Island

• Salisbury Farm in Johnston: Salisbury Farm offers one of the largest pumpkin patches in the state, along with a variety of fall activities like corn mazes and hayrides. This farm is perfect for families looking for a full day of fall fun.
• Confreda Farms in Cranston: A long-standing Rhode Island favorite, Confreda Farms offers both apple and pumpkin picking, along with a range of seasonal activities such as their corn maze, haunted hayrides, and a farm stand full of autumn goodies.
• Clark Farms in Wakefield: Known for its pumpkin patch and family-friendly activities, Clark Farms offers a corn maze, hayrides, and a petting zoo to make your pumpkin-picking experience unforgettable.

Tips for a Successful Apple and Pumpkin Picking Trip
To make the most of your day at the orchard or pumpkin patch, here are a few tips:

1. Check for Farm Hours and Availability: Always check the farm’s website or social media for updates on hours of operation and availability of apples or pumpkins. Some farms may have limited quantities depending on the season.
2. Dress for the Weather: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking through fields and orchards.
3. Bring Cash: While many farms now accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash, especially for smaller purchases like apple cider or doughnuts from the farm stand.
4. Bring Bags or Baskets: Some farms provide containers for picking, but it’s helpful to bring your own bags or baskets just in case.
5. Enjoy the Full Experience: Don’t just rush in and grab your apples or pumpkins—take time to enjoy the scenery, participate in other activities, and make memories with family or friends.

Conclusion
Apple and pumpkin picking in Rhode Island are quintessential fall activities that combine fresh air, delicious local produce, and a connection to the state’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re biting into a freshly picked apple or carving a pumpkin for Halloween, these activities offer a chance to slow down, savor the season, and enjoy everything that autumn has to offer.

So, book your room with us, grab your flannel, and head to one of Rhode Island’s many orchards or pumpkin patches, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Fall in the Ocean State is truly something special—make sure you don’t miss out on this year’s harvest!