U-Pick available Low confidence Empire, Michigan

Sleeping Bear Orchards

Contact & location

Address

11225 South Leelanau Highway
Empire, MI 49630

Where Sleeping Bear Orchards is located

Sleeping Bear Orchards sits in Empire, Leelanau County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Michigan. The farm's street address is 11225 South Leelanau Highway, Empire, MI 49630.

Most visitors reach Sleeping Bear Orchards by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Empire and continue on local county roads to 11225 South Leelanau Highway. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.

Landmarks in the area include downtown Empire, 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.

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Looking for the best apple picking near Empire, Michigan? Sleeping Bear Orchards is a working apple orchard located in Empire, Michigan (Leelanau County), welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.

Sleeping Bear Orchards sits inside one of Michigan'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 Sleeping Bear Orchards

Pick-your-own apples at Sleeping Bear Orchards 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

pick-your-own

Best Time to Visit

Apple season at Sleeping Bear Orchards runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in Michigan. 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 Sleeping Bear Orchards is located

Sleeping Bear Orchards sits in Empire, Leelanau County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Michigan. The farm's street address is 11225 South Leelanau Highway, Empire, MI 49630.

Open in Google Maps →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Sleeping Bear Orchards offer pick-your-own apples?+

Yes, Sleeping Bear Orchards 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 Sleeping Bear Orchards?+

Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Sleeping Bear Orchards's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.

What are Sleeping Bear Orchards's hours?+

Hours at Sleeping Bear Orchards vary by season. We recommend calling ahead or checking their website the morning of your visit.

How much does apple picking cost at Sleeping Bear Orchards?+

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. Sleeping Bear Orchards sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.

What apple varieties can I pick at Sleeping Bear Orchards?+

Sleeping Bear Orchards grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.

Is Sleeping Bear Orchards good for kids and families?+

Absolutely, Sleeping Bear Orchards welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.

Can I bring my dog to Sleeping Bear Orchards?+

Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Sleeping Bear Orchards to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.

Is there parking at Sleeping Bear Orchards?+

Sleeping Bear Orchards 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 Sleeping Bear Orchards?+

Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Sleeping Bear Orchards usually provides picking bags or buckets.

Data source: Google Places · Confidence: Low