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Keepin' It Crisp: The Best Apple Picking in St. Louis

Here at Southpointe Apartments, we love to help residents come up with exciting weekend activities, and one of our favorites to recommend is apple picking! Whether you're planning a group outing or a sweet solo escape, here's your guide to the best places for apple picking in St. Louis.

1. Eckert's Country Store & Farms (Belleville, IL)

Just a short drive from St. Louis, Eckert's Belleville Farm is a perennial favorite for apple picking in St. Louis. Their Belleville, Grafton, and Millstadt locations all offer pick-your-own apples starting mid-August. Expect a fun-filled day with tractor rides to the orchard, Mr. E's donuts, a cider shed, dining, and seasonal festivals.
A cluster of red apples on a tree.

2. Braeutigam Orchards (Belleville, IL)

Family‑owned since 1831, Braeutigam Orchards delivers classic fall charm with nine apple varieties like Jonathan, Empire, Fuji, and Gold Rush. The orchard also features a barn market, fresh cider, and a popular bakery offering cider doughnuts. Their updates are posted regularly on Facebook to help you plan your visit.

3. Liberty Apple Orchard (Edwardsville, IL)

Liberty Apple Orchard in Edwardsville boasts a low-key, friendly experience with nearly 20 apple varieties. No field fees here—you only pay for what you pick. They also offer apple cider donuts on many Saturdays, apple butter, caramel apples, and local honey. It's a top pick for those who want to enjoy apple picking in St. Louis without the crowds.


4. Centennial Farms & Orchard (Augusta, MO)

Located in Augusta, Centennial Farms opens its orchards in late August and runs through October. Visitors enjoy apples like Fuji, Jon-A-Gold, and Mutsu, alongside a charming store stocked with preserves, honey, and apple butter. Large groups love the playground and bounce pad, and weekend hayrides make it a memorable fall tradition.

A hand holding a ripe apple with green leaves in the background.

5. Herman's Farm Orchard (St. Charles, MO)

Herman's Farm offers a more intimate apple-picking experience just outside St. Louis. You'll find Honeycrisp, Jonathan, and Jon-A-Gold apples, with a castle-themed playground and hayrides to round out the visit. It's perfect for a low-key day in the orchard without the hustle and bustle.


6. Mills Apple Farm (Marine, IL)

A hidden gem in Marine, Mills Apple Farm features tractor rides, a wide variety of apples (including Ginger Gold, Winesap, and Earliblaze), and bag options from half-peck to bushel. Picking season generally begins around Labor Day, and the farm posts frequent updates on Facebook to let you know what's ripe and ready.


7. Thierbach Orchards (Marthasville, MO)

Located near the Katy Trail in Marthasville, Thierbach Orchards is a full-on fall fun zone. With more than 15 apple varieties, corn mazes, bounce houses, pedal carts, and wagon rides, it's the place to go when you want a full day of orchard adventure.

A red apple hanging from a tree with green leaves.

8. Broom Orchard (Carlinville, IL)

A little farther out, Broom Orchard is known for its wide selection of apples (Fuji, EverCrisp, Pink Lady, and more), homemade cider, apple butter, and a beloved Apple Festival in late September. The orchard is open from mid-August through October, with a mix of pick-your-own and pre-picked produce available.


Best Apple Picking Options at a Glance

If you want lively activities and food vendors, Eckert's and Thierbach Orchards offer a full fall experience. For something more relaxed and rustic, Braeutigam, Mills, and Liberty Apple Orchard offer simpler joys like quiet rows of trees, fresh cider, and donuts. Families with little ones love Centennial Farms for its bounce pad and playgrounds, while Herman's is great for quick, easy trips close to home.

Each apple orchard in St Louis has its own charm. Whether you're after cider donuts and kid-friendly hayrides or fresh brewed cider and craft beer, you'll find your perfect fall vibe in this colorful community.


Tips Before You Go

Ready to plan your visit? Whether this is your first time apple picking or you're an orchard veteran, these helpful tips will ensure a great visit.

  • Check online first. Apple varieties ripen at different times, and orchards often post updates on Facebook or their websites.
  • Dress for the weather. Layers are your friend. Remember that fall mornings can be chilly! Pack a few different fleeces and jackets so you'll be ready for anything.
  • Go early. Weekends get busy, so aim for weekday mornings for the best experience if your schedule allows. If you're venturing out on a Saturday or Sunday, try to go early to beat the crowds or hit up the end-of-day golden hour.
  • Bring containers if allowed. Some orchards prefer you use theirs, but it doesn't hurt to ask before you pick.


Looking for a Home Base Close to It All? 

If you're searching for your next home, Southpointe Apartments is St. Louis' premier apartment community. Situated in Sappington, MO, Southpointe Apartments offers an array of modern amenities that are perfect for winding down after a day in the orchard. Whether you're settling in with a bag of fresh apples or planning your next seasonal outing, Southpointe is your ideal home base for enjoying everything St. Louis has to offer. Schedule your tour today and experience the embrace of home.

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