Editor's picks 2026

The best U-Pick apple orchards in Florida.

Every apple orchard on this page is hand-picked by our editors from the 23 Florida farms in the Apple Picking Finder directory. We looked at variety selection, U-Pick availability, family amenities, cider and bakery programs, and how well each orchard runs its harvest weekends. Prefer the full list? Browse every apple orchard in Florida

When to visit Florida orchards

Apple picking in Florida typically runs late July through October, with peak variety and best-picking weekends in September. Southern orchards start early with Ginger Gold and Gala, then move into Fuji and Pink Lady by mid-October.

Not sure which week is right for the variety you want? Our apple ripening calendar shows exactly which apples are ready each month, and our variety guide covers the flavor, texture, and best uses of every apple you'll find in Florida.

Our top 10 apple orchards in Florida

Ranked by our editors, not by ad spend. Each farm below has been reviewed for U-Pick program quality, family experience, and seasonal reliability.

See every apple orchard in Florida

Our top 10 is a starting point. There are 23 apple orchards in Florida on Apple Picking Finder, searchable by city, county, and ZIP code.

Browse all Florida orchards →

Tips for a great orchard visit in Florida

  • Go on Saturday morning, not Sunday afternoon. The best trees and freshest cider donuts sell out fast, especially during peak weeks in September.
  • Call ahead the day of your visit. A heavy weekend can strip a block bare, and orchards rotate which trees are open to keep the fruit quality high.
  • Bring cash for extras. Even orchards that accept cards for U-Pick often run cider donuts, hayrides, and farm-stand items on cash-only carts.
  • Ask about shorter trees. If you're picking with kids, several Florida orchards now grow trellised dwarf apple trees that let children reach fruit without a ladder.
  • Confirm the pet policy. Working orchards limit dogs in picking blocks for food-safety rules, but many welcome leashed dogs in the cider yard.

Frequently asked questions

When is apple picking season in Florida?+

The main U-Pick apple season in Florida runs late July through October. Early varieties like Ginger Gold, Zestar, and Gala open first, followed by Honeycrisp in mid-September and late-season Fuji, Pink Lady, and Braeburn into October. Always call ahead or check the orchard's Facebook page the week you plan to visit, weekend picking often sells out by early afternoon.

How much does it cost to pick your own apples in Florida?+

Most Florida orchards charge either per pound (typically $1.50 to $3.50) or per bag (half-peck around $15 to $20, peck around $25 to $35). A handful still charge a flat entry fee that includes a set amount of apples. Weekend hayrides, cider donuts, and corn mazes are usually a small add-on.

What are the best apple varieties to pick in Florida?+

Honeycrisp and Gala are the two crowd favorites at nearly every Florida orchard. If you want something less common, ask for SweeTango, Zestar, Cortland, Empire, Jonagold, or heirlooms like Northern Spy and Winesap.

How many U-Pick apple orchards are in Florida?+

We currently list 23 apple orchards in Florida that grow apples and welcome the public. Not every one runs a formal U-Pick program, so check each farm's listing for confirmed U-Pick status, hours, and reservation requirements.

What should I bring to a U-Pick orchard?+

Closed-toe shoes for uneven ground, cash for cider donuts and small farm stands, sunscreen, a full water bottle, and a stroller alternative if trails are unpaved. Orchards supply picking bags, do not bring your own containers unless the farm specifically allows it.

Are dogs allowed at Florida apple orchards?+

Policies vary a lot. Most working orchards do not allow dogs in the picking blocks for food-safety reasons, but many have picnic and cider-yard areas where leashed dogs are welcome. Check each orchard's detail page for the confirmed pet policy.

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