Buffalo Ridge Orchard
Contact & location
Central City, IA 52214
Where Buffalo Ridge Orchard is located
Buffalo Ridge Orchard sits in Central City, Linn County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Iowa. The farm's street address is 1337 Rollins Road, Central City, IA 52214.
Most visitors reach Buffalo Ridge 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 Central City and continue on local county roads to 1337 Rollins Road. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Central City, 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 Central City, Iowa? Buffalo Ridge Orchard is a working apple orchard located in Central City, Iowa (Linn County), welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Buffalo Ridge 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 Buffalo Ridge Orchard
Pick-your-own apples at Buffalo Ridge 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 Buffalo Ridge 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 Buffalo Ridge Orchard is located
Buffalo Ridge Orchard sits in Central City, Linn County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Iowa. The farm's street address is 1337 Rollins Road, Central City, IA 52214.
Most visitors reach Buffalo Ridge 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 Central City and continue on local county roads to 1337 Rollins Road. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Central City, 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 Buffalo Ridge Orchard offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, Buffalo Ridge 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 Buffalo Ridge Orchard?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Buffalo Ridge Orchard's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Buffalo Ridge Orchard's hours?+
Hours at Buffalo Ridge Orchard vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at (319) 521-1353 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Buffalo Ridge 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. Buffalo Ridge Orchard sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Buffalo Ridge Orchard?+
Buffalo Ridge Orchard grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is Buffalo Ridge Orchard good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Buffalo Ridge Orchard welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to Buffalo Ridge Orchard?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Buffalo Ridge Orchard to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Buffalo Ridge Orchard?+
Buffalo Ridge 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 Buffalo Ridge Orchard?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Buffalo Ridge Orchard usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: Google Places · Confidence: High
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