The 14 Best Apple Orchards in Delaware

Delaware is nestled in the heart of the northeast, which is prime apple growing country. Though the state itself is home to only four apple orchards, there are many more in the surrounding states of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland. Because many of these are an easy drive over the border, we have included them on our list of the best apple orchards in Delaware. 

If you plan to be in Delaware this fall, or the surrounding area, don’t miss visiting one of these apple orchards. There is something for everyone, whether you are looking for a quiet day in the country or an exciting experience jam-packed with activities. 

Keep reading to discover 14 best apple orchards in or near Delaware!

1. Fifer Orchards

Kent County, Delaware

Fifer Orchards, located in Kent County, is among the best apple orchards in Delaware. It is also one of the oldest, founded all the way back in 1919. In the century since then, it has passed through four generations of the Fifer family to today. 

The climate at Fifer Orchards is perfect for fruits and vegetables, including apples. Visitors can pick all the products grown here, including pumpkins, blueberries, strawberries, peaches, and sunflowers. 

You can find many apple varieties here, including Ginger Gold, Autumn Crisp, and Cameo. There are plenty of other events throughout the fall, such as a corn maze and pumpkin picking. 

2. T.S. Smith And Sons

Bridgeville, Delaware

T.S. Smith And Sons is located in Bridgeville, Delaware. This family-run apple farm is not only one of the best apple orchards in Delaware, but also the oldest. It is now in its fourth generation and still producing apples as well as peaches, nectarines, strawberries, melons, and vegetables.

There are 12 varieties of apples at T.S. Smith And Sons. These include well-known varieties like Lodi, Gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady, as well as rare finds like Stayman, Romeo, and Black Twig. 

Though the orchard does not offer apple picking to visitors, you can buy produce in one of their markets. 

3. Thousand Acre Farm

Middletown, Delaware

Thousand Acre Farm is largely marketed as an event venue, but there is also a beautiful apple orchard for visitors to enjoy. This orchard grows a variety of apples and is available for U-pick as of 2020. 

Varieties here include popular types like Jonamac, Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, Crimson Crisp, Shizuka, Golden Delicious, Goldrush, and Pink Lady. Thousand Acre Farm also features a cider barn 

There are lots of events that take place throughout the year, including live music festivals, sports marathons, and even car shows. There is always something new going on, so check it out at any time of the year.

4. Parsons Farms Produce

Dagsboro, Delaware

Number 4 on our list of best apple orchards in Delaware is Parsons Farms Produce. Parsons Farms Produce is a family-owned farm in Dagsboro, Delaware. The farmworkers pride themselves on providing fresh produce and a family-friendly experience to visitors from all over the northeast. 

There are plenty of farm animals here that kids can meet and pet. Of course, there are also many crops available to be picked throughout the year. You’ll find peaches, blueberries, and strawberries in the summer and apples and pumpkins in the fall.

One popular attraction is the so-called Goat Mountain, a playscape open to visiting kids. You’ll find the farm goats hanging out nearby, too. There are also horses, pigs, cows, rabbits, and sheep.

5. Milburn Orchards

Elkton, Maryland

Milburn Orchards might not technically belong on the list of the best apple orchards in Delaware because it is actually in neighboring Maryland. But this easy-to-reach orchard is just a short drive north of Delaware. For this reason, it has earned a spot on the list. 

Milburn Orchards offers not only pick-your-own apples, but also pick-your-own peaches, blackberries, and blueberries throughout the season. Visitors are welcome to enjoy ice cream on the deck overlooking the orchard. 

Apple season starts in July and runs through November. During this time, you can find varieties like Summer Rambo, Sansa, McIntosh, Orange Honey, Cortland, Cameo, Fuji, and Stayman Winesap.

6. Barnard’s Orchard

Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Though Barnard’s Orchard isn’t technically in Delaware — it is actually in Pennsylvania in the town of Kennett Square — its proximity to the border earns it a place on our list of best apple orchards in Delaware. 

Barnard’s has been described as an apple picking paradise. This fourth-generation family farm offers more than 30 apple varieties for visitors to take home. Apple season is long here, starting as early as June when the Lodi variety is ready to harvest. 

You can also find varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Stayman, and many more. The most interesting thing? The farm has been in the same family since the 1720s!

7. Blades Orchard

Federalsburg, Maryland

Blades Orchard is located in nearby Maryland, an easy drive from Delaware. This fruit orchard has plenty of things to do, making it perfect for a day trip! 

Apple picking runs from September to October, while other types of fruit are available for purchase in the store. There are many varieties to choose from, such as Fuji and Pink Lady.

Adults will enjoy the offerings of hard cider from the on-site cider press. You can find lots of other goodies in the store, including traditional apple cider, fruit preserves, apple butter, canned peaches, and baked goods including cider doughnuts. Just the mention of hard cider and cider doughnuts has me crossing the border with our list of the best apple orchards in Delaware.

8. Indian Orchards Farm

Media, Pennsylvania

Indian Orchards Farm is located in Media, Pennsylvania. This farm might be across the border, but it is a great day drive destination near Delaware which lands it on our best apple orchards in Delaware list.

The orchard has been in operation since 1913 and has plenty of delicious produce on offer, much of which is available to pick on your own. You’ll find heritage apple varieties here as well as peaches, plums, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, figs, Asian pears, persimmons, and pawpaws. 

You can also find some of the best fresh vegetables, maple syrup, honey, jam, relish, and eggs on the Eastern Seaboard, making this an unmissable destination among local apple orchards. 

9. Glen Willow Orchards

Avondale, Pennsylvania

Glen Willow Orchards is another apple farm located across a nearby state border. This orchard is in Avondale, Pennsylvania, meaning it doesn’t technically belong on the list of apple orchards in Delaware — but it is close enough for a day trip. 

Unfortunately, Glen Willow Orchards does not have a detailed website or very active social media pages. However, online reviews give it glowing ratings. Visitors cite the delicious produce and other goods as well as the stunning farmland scenery as their favorite aspects about Glen Willow. 

If you are looking for a great place to buy fresh, local apples and other produce, Glen Willow Orchards is a must-visit.

10. Linvilla Orchards

Media, Pennsylvania

Linvilla Orchards in Media, Pennsylvania, features so many attractions that you can’t enjoy them all in one visit. In addition to pick-your-own fruit, you’ll find everything here from a playground to a beer garden, store, garden center, and much more.

There are also regular events scheduled at Linvilla Orchards, including autumn festivities, school trips, and plenty of other parties. Visitors always have the opportunity to meet and feed the farm animals, go fishing in the lake, and take educational tours around the property. 

Apple picking starts in late summer, with varieties like Zestar, Ginger Gold, Tydeman Red, Sansa, Smokehouse, Macoun, and many more.

11. Highland Orchards

West Chester, Pennsylvania

Highland Orchards is located in West Chester, Pennsylvania. A short drive over the border and you are enjoying another one on our list of the best apple orchards in Delaware. There are countless activities to do here on the 200-acre farm, from picking your own fruit to taking hayrides, enjoying tours, and attending regular events. 

You’ll also find a bakery serving up fresh homemade goods like pies, bread, and much more. But the main attraction is the fresh produce, which you can find for much of the year. 

Pick-your-own is available for everything from rhubarb to cherries, plums, and sweet corn. Apple season starts in July and runs through October, with each variety available for about two weeks.

12. Duffield’s Farm

Sewell, New Jersey

Duffield’s Farm is a fifth-generation family farm located in Sewell, New Jersey. Though not technically one of the Delaware apple orchards, it is still close enough to be included on our list of best apple orchards in Delaware.

There is plenty to do at Duffield’s. They host events throughout the year, including seasonal festivals, school trips, educational tours, and more. You can always visit the deli or bakery, which serves up fresh local goods. 

Fall is a special time of year at Duffield’s, with festivities every weekend. You’ll also have the chance to pick your own apples and pumpkins, which are advertised by type on the farm’s social media pages. 

13. Hill Creek Farms

South Harrison Township, New Jersey

Hill Creek Farms in South Harrison Township, New Jersey, has only been in business since 2006. But in the years since then, it has grown to include 17,000 apple trees and many other crops. 

The farm is dedicated to improving local agriculture and sharing fresh food with others. Its nearby second location grows fresh vegetables. There are also countless events and attractions, including a barrel train ride, autumn festivities, freshly-baked goods, local wines, and of course, pick-your-own fruit. 

There are many apple varieties on offer, including Fuji, Cameo, and Jonagold. You’ll find dwarf trees throughout the orchard that are perfect for kids.

14. Johnson’s Farm

Medford, New Jersey

Last but not least on our list of best apple orchards in Delaware is Johnson’s Farm. Johnson’s Farm is located in Medford, New Jersey, at an easy-to-reach distance from Delaware. There are countless family activities here, including flower and fruit festivals, hayrides, a corn maze, and even live music.

There are 10 apple varieties offered at Johnson’s farm. Picking starts in October along with pumpkins and gourds. Depending on the season and the weather, you may find Stayman, Fuji, Pink Lady, Empire, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, and Goldrush. 

Make sure you stay long enough to enjoy an apple cider doughnut and visit the Discovery Barnyard, which features a playscape, Go-Kart track, splash pad, and of course, fun with farm animals. 

Visit the Best Apple Orchards In Delaware!

There might only be a few apple orchards that lie within Delaware’s borders, but the state is a prime beginning point. From there, not only can you visit some of the best apple orchards in Delaware, but you can easily reach some of the best apple orchards in its surrounding states of the northeast.

Keep learning everything you should know about apples!