A tart Granny Smith apple is my personal favorite. (Grace Howard / Bham Now)

If you’re up-to-speed on your seasonal produce knowledge, you might know September is peak harvesting season for apples.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic day trip, or simply craving fresh, locally grown apples, Alabama has a great selection of scenic orchards and farms to explore.

We rounded up some of the best apple-picking spots in the state, so grab your basket and get ready to enjoy the delicious taste of fall in Alabama!

1. Scott’s Orchard | Hazel Green

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Scott’s Orchard, a family-owned farm in Hazel Green, Alabama yielded its first crop of apples way back in 1927. The farm has expanded over several decades to feature peaches, corn, peppers and much more, but apples remain their signature specialty.

In addition to freshly-made cider, the farm offers u-pick apples from the orchard from September until late October. There will be plenty of other apple-pickers during peak season, so Scott’s Orchard suggests reserving a date online.

Location: 2163 Scott Rd, Hazel Green, AL 35750
Hours: Monday-Saturday 8AM-5PM | Sunday 1-5PM

2. Allman Farms & Orchards | Oneonta

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While this family-owned farm is most well-known for their juicy tomatoes, they also happen to specialize in apples from August to October.

Located in Blount County, their orchards are chock-full peaches, pears, plums, nectarines and a wide variety of apples. Explore the orchards or check out some of their homemade delights like salsas, jams and pickled veggies.

Location: 6866 County Hwy 29, Oneonta, AL 35121
Hours: Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM | Saturday 8AM-2PM

3. Steele Orchard | Cullman

42Fbdb0D F89C 485E 8606 A9B43061150E — Steele Orchard in Cullman has u-pick apples from September to October. (Unsplash)

With over 20 varieties of apples to choose from, Steele Orchard is a must-visit. You’ll also find homemade jams, jellies, apple butter, apple cider and tasty caramel apples. Plus, don’t leave without trying their fan-favorite southern fried pies.

Apple picking season starts September 15, so make sure you give them a visit before the pickins get slim!

Location: 1695 Co Rd 1141, Cullman, AL 35057
Hours: Monday-Saturday 8AM-5PM

4. Isom’s Orchard | Athens

Located in Athens, Alabama, this orchard is a total gem. Isom’s Orchard has something for everyone, from u-pick apples from the orchard to tasty apple dessert creations like apple donuts, apple chips and even apple cider slushies.

If you’re looking for the all-inclusive apple-picking experience, you need to take a trip to Isom’s.

P.S.—Isom’s Orchard is pet-friendly, so your furry friends can tag along too!

Location: 24012 US-72, Athens, AL 35613
Hours: 8AM-5PM Daily

5. Crow Mountain Orchard | Fackler

Located in Jackson County, this family-owned and operated farm has some of the freshest, prettiest apples in the state. Whether you prefer sweet honeycrisps or tart Granny Smiths, they have a myriad of apple varieties ripe for the picking all season long.

Want to get a sneak peek of their selection? They keep you in-the-know about what’s currently in stock through their Facebook page.