The Big Apple Orchard
Where The Big Apple Orchard is located
The Big Apple Orchard sits in Mount Vernon, Linn County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Iowa. The farm's street address is 1115 U.S. 30, Mount Vernon, IA 52314.
Most visitors reach The Big Apple 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 Mount Vernon and continue on local county roads to 1115 U.S. 30. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Mount Vernon, 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 Mount Vernon, Iowa? The Big Apple Orchard is a working apple orchard located in Mount Vernon, Iowa (Linn County), welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
The Big Apple 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 The Big Apple Orchard
Pick-your-own apples at The Big Apple 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 The Big Apple 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 The Big Apple Orchard is located
The Big Apple Orchard sits in Mount Vernon, Linn County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Iowa. The farm's street address is 1115 U.S. 30, Mount Vernon, IA 52314.
Most visitors reach The Big Apple 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 Mount Vernon and continue on local county roads to 1115 U.S. 30. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Mount Vernon, 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 The Big Apple Orchard offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, The Big Apple 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 The Big Apple Orchard?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check The Big Apple Orchard's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are The Big Apple Orchard's hours?+
Hours at The Big Apple Orchard vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at (319) 361-7692 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at The Big Apple 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. The Big Apple Orchard sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at The Big Apple Orchard?+
The Big Apple Orchard grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is The Big Apple Orchard good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, The Big Apple Orchard welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to The Big Apple Orchard?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call The Big Apple Orchard to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at The Big Apple Orchard?+
The Big Apple 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 The Big Apple Orchard?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. The Big Apple Orchard usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: Google Places · Confidence: Medium
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