Our Favorite Fall Tradition: Apple Picking at Apple Hill Orchards

September in Ohio means apple picking at Apple Hill Orchards (Mansfield, Ohio) and it’s one of our favorite fall traditions—one that truly never gets old.  On the years we’ve missed it, there is a little ache of regret when I realize the season slipped by without a visit.. When I say, “Let’s go apple picking,” my family already knows exactly where we’re headed!

There’s just something special about visiting a place that’s so close to home yet feels like a little seasonal getaway. My kids are older now, but we still love going, and I treasure all the memories we’ve made there over the years.

🍎 Local Charm, Lasting Memories

Apple picking at Apple Hill Orchard has been a cherished part of our fall traditions for years. I’m always drawn to the endless rows of apple trees, set against a backdrop of tree-covered hills – such a beautiful sight. Orchards are a dream for photographers, with those perfect leading lines stretching row after row. My camera is never far from reach!

Whether the kids are hunting for the perfect apple or sneaking bites between picks, there’s always laughter – and usually someone struggling to carry a bag that’s way too heavy. (Dad gets deemed the bag holder most times!)

Over the years, we’ve picked everything from Honeycrisp to Jonagold, and our latest favorite, Pixie Crisp. Information break – Did you know that there are 7500 apple varieties worldwide?! I find that amazing! Somehow, apples just taste sweeter when you’ve plucked them straight from the tree.

Traditional family photo at the apple orchard! Added a couple in here! Every year, the real adventure is figuring out where to prop the camera for our family photo – followed by the mad dash back, hoping I don’t look ridiculous in the shot!

📷 Photos That Happen Naturally

Since I always bring my camera, our trips have turned into some of my favorite candid family photo opportunities. Apple Hill is full of those in-between moments:

• Kids reaching for apples just out of their grasp, or running from the yellow jackets snacking on apples on the ground!

• Apple “dinking” before they take their bites

• Our traditional family photo (that usually comes with rolling eyes and groans)

• Laughing and silliness between siblings

I don’t have to pose anyone—everything unfolds on its own. These are the kinds of photos that tell our family’s story.

I took more video than photos the last time we visited, so I figured I’d share some of my old images as well!

🍩 The Treats Are Half the Fun

Of course, we can’t leave without stopping for the goodies. The fresh-pressed cider, warm apple donuts, and seasonal snacks are just as much a part of our tradition as the picking itself. My kids will tell you the donuts are almost better than the apples—almost.

And yes, I always end up bringing home more than I planned. Apples for snacking, baking, and maybe a pie if I’m feeling ambitious.  Although my third kiddo, may eat them all before I have time to worry about that!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why We Keep Going Back

What I love most is that apple picking at Apple Hill isn’t just an outing—it’s a memory we reshape every year.

Some years, we’ve bundled up in sweaters and boots. Other years, it’s been sunny and warm enough for t-shirts. But every visit has the same mix of simple fun: exploring, tasting, laughing, and just being together without rushing.

If you’ve never made it a tradition, I can’t recommend it enough. And if you already go, you know exactly why it’s worth it.

Thinking About Making It Your Tradition Too?

Whether you’re local like us or planning a seasonal outing, apple picking at Apple Hill Orchards is such a perfect spot for fall memories.

I hope you enjoyed some of the images from our family trips in the last few years,  not because everything was “perfect,” but because it was real—and that’s what makes it my favorite part of fall.

If you’d like inspiration for your own family outing—or want to turn your tradition into a photo session—I am a Mansfield Ohio Newborn, Family and Children’s photographer and I’d love to have a conversation to see if we are a good fit!  Contact me today to find out more!