Upstream Gardens & Orchard
Contact & location
Altoona, IA 50009
Where Upstream Gardens & Orchard is located
Upstream Gardens & Orchard sits in Altoona, Polk County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Iowa. The farm's street address is 5987 Northeast 88th Street, Altoona, IA 50009.
Most visitors reach Upstream Gardens & Orchard by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Altoona and continue on local county roads to 5987 Northeast 88th Street. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Altoona, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Looking for the best apple picking near Altoona, Iowa? Upstream Gardens & Orchard is a working apple orchard located in Altoona, Iowa (Polk County), welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Upstream Gardens & Orchard sits inside one of Iowa's most beloved apple-growing regions. Between the smell of fresh cider, warm apple donuts, and rows of Honeycrisp and McIntosh trees heavy with fruit, it's the kind of place that turns a simple Saturday into a memory your kids will still talk about years later.
Pick-Your-Own Apples at Upstream Gardens & Orchard
Pick-your-own apples at Upstream Gardens & Orchard is exactly what it sounds like, you walk the orchard, pick apples directly off the tree, and pay by the bag or pound when you're done. Staff will point you toward the rows that are ripe that week, hand you a picking bag or bucket, and give you a quick tip on how to twist (not pull) the apple.
On-Farm Activities
Best Time to Visit
Apple season at Upstream Gardens & Orchard runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in Iowa. The sweet spot for a first-time visit is the last two weeks of September through the first two weeks of October.
Weekends between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. are the friendliest time to arrive. Weekdays are the most peaceful, a Tuesday or Wednesday morning may have entire rows to yourself.
What to Bring
- • Cash (backup for the farm stand)
- • Closed-toe walking shoes
- • A light jacket or flannel
- • Sunscreen and a hat
- • Water bottles for the walk
- • Reusable bags for the ride home
- • A camera or phone charged for photos
- • Small bills for cider and donuts
Where Upstream Gardens & Orchard is located
Upstream Gardens & Orchard sits in Altoona, Polk County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Iowa. The farm's street address is 5987 Northeast 88th Street, Altoona, IA 50009.
Most visitors reach Upstream Gardens & Orchard by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Altoona and continue on local county roads to 5987 Northeast 88th Street. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Altoona, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Upstream Gardens & Orchard offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, Upstream Gardens & Orchard offers pick-your-own apples during the harvest season. Guests walk the rows, pick apples straight from the tree, and pay by the bag, bucket, or pound at the farm stand.
When is apple picking season at Upstream Gardens & Orchard?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Upstream Gardens & Orchard's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Upstream Gardens & Orchard's hours?+
Hours at Upstream Gardens & Orchard vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at (515) 957-1303 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Upstream Gardens & Orchard?+
Pick-your-own apple prices in the U.S. typically run $1.50–$3.00 per pound, or $20–$40 for a half-bushel bag. Upstream Gardens & Orchard sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Upstream Gardens & Orchard?+
Upstream Gardens & Orchard grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is Upstream Gardens & Orchard good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Upstream Gardens & Orchard welcomes families and offers apples, pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to Upstream Gardens & Orchard?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Upstream Gardens & Orchard to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Upstream Gardens & Orchard?+
Upstream Gardens & Orchard has on-site parking that's free for guests. Fall weekends are the busiest, mornings are the calmest time to visit.
What should I bring to Upstream Gardens & Orchard?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Upstream Gardens & Orchard usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: Google Places · Confidence: High
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