Fall in Atlanta is the perfect time to get outside, soak up the crisp air, and try something new. If you’re searching for fun things to do in Atlanta for fall or even planning a unique Atlanta date idea, visiting an apple orchard is a must. From picking your own fresh apples to enjoying cider, baked treats, and stunning autumn views, these orchards offer the ultimate fall day trip. Whether you’re with friends, family, or your significant other, apple picking is one of those seasonal experiences that combines adventure, relaxation, and plenty of photo worthy moments.
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Why Apple Picking is a Must for Fall in Atlanta
As the weather cools and the leaves start to change, Atlanta locals and visitors are always on the hunt for seasonal activities that feel festive and fun. One of the best things to do in Atlanta for fall is to take a short drive to the North Georgia mountains and spend the day at an apple orchard. It’s the perfect mix of cozy tradition and outdoor adventure, and it also makes for a unique Atlanta date idea you’ll both remember. From picking your own apples to sipping cider and exploring the countryside, apple picking is a simple way to celebrate autumn while escaping the city for the day.
Why Apple Picking is a Unique Atlanta Date Idea
Dinner and a movie are great, but sometimes it’s fun to do something different. Spending the day at an apple orchard offers the perfect mix of romance, adventure, and seasonal charm. Walking hand-in-hand through rows of apple trees, sipping cider together, and sharing a slice of pie makes for a unique Atlanta date idea that feels both thoughtful and memorable. Plus, you’ll head home with apples to bake a pie or cook a cozy fall recipe together.
Best Apple Orchards Near Atlanta
Mercier Orchards – Blue Ridge, GA
Mercier Orchards is one of the largest and most popular destinations for apple picking in Georgia. Just a couple of hours north of Atlanta, this family-run farm has been a fall tradition for decades. Visitors can pick their own apples, shop in the on-site market, and enjoy fresh cider donuts and pies. It’s a must-visit apple orchard for families, couples, or groups of friends.
B.J. Reece Orchards – Ellijay, GA
Located in the “Apple Capital of Georgia,” B.J. Reece Orchards offers not only apple picking but also farm activities like a petting zoo, corn maze, and wagon rides. This makes it one of the best things to do in Atlanta for fall if you’re up for a quick drive. For couples, it’s also a unique Atlanta date idea, mixing rustic charm with plenty of opportunities for cute fall photos.
Hillcrest Orchards – Ellijay, GA
Hillcrest Orchards is another Ellijay favorite with U-pick apples, live entertainment, and seasonal festivals. Known for its fried apple pies and apple ice cream, this apple orchard is the perfect stop for those who love farm to table treats. It’s family friendly but also a fun day trip for couples or groups looking for a festive fall outing.
Red Apple Barn – Ellijay, GA
For a more laid back orchard experience, Red Apple Barn offers U-pick apples, hayrides, and a country market with seasonal goodies. It’s the kind of spot where you can slow down, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and take home a basket full of apples.
The Folk Collaborative - McCaysville
Unlike many orchards that focus only on apple picking, The Folk Collaborative is about creating community and connection. Yes, you’ll find seasonal fruit, fresh cider, and the chance to stroll through rows of apple trees, but you’ll also discover a gathering place filled with storytelling, workshops, and homemade goods that celebrate Appalachian culture.
If you’re looking for seasonal fun, apple picking is one of the best things to do in Atlanta for fall. With orchards just a short drive away, you can spend the day surrounded by crisp mountain air, fresh apples, and festive farm activities. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a friends’ trip, or a unique Atlanta date idea, visiting a Georgia apple orchard is the perfect way to embrace autumn and create lasting memories.
