5 Must-Visit Orchards for a Fruitful Adventure in Central Iowa

When the leaves turn vibrant hues of red and gold, and the crisp autumn breeze fills the air, it's time to embark on a delightful orchard-hopping journey in central Iowa. With an abundance of apple and pumpkin farms, this region offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities, scenic beauty, and freshly harvested fruits. Here are five enchanting orchards that promise a fruitful and fun-filled experience for everyone.

5 Must-Visit Central Iowa Orchards

• Center Grove Orchard: Located just outside of Cambridge, Iowa, Center Grove Orchard is a quintessential fall destination for locals and tourists alike. This family-run orchard offers an impressive variety of apples, pumpkins, and other seasonal produce. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hayride through the orchard, wander through a challenging corn maze, and savor freshly made apple cider and warm apple cider donuts. Kids will have a blast at the play area, which includes farm animals and fun activities like apple slingshots.

• Berry Patch Farm: Nestled in Nevada, Iowa, Berry Patch Farm is a picturesque fruit paradise with a focus on berry-picking. This charming orchard allows visitors to harvest their strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries during the summer months. In the fall, they offer apple-picking, pumpkin patches, and a delightful array of homemade berry treats like jams and pies. The friendly staff and idyllic setting make it a must-visit spot for families and berry enthusiasts.

• Uncle Bill's Farm: For an authentic rural experience, Uncle Bill's Farm in Grinnell, Iowa, is the place to be. This working farm opens its doors to the public during the fall season, providing an extensive selection of pumpkins, gourds, and squash. Beyond the bountiful harvest, visitors can enjoy a delightful corn pool, hayrides, and a petting zoo with adorable farm animals. Their annual pumpkin catapulting event is a highlight, where pumpkins are launched high into the sky with trebuchets, creating a spectacle that's both entertaining and unique.

• Wills Family Orchard: Nestled near Adel, Iowa, Wills Family Orchard is a serene and family-friendly destination. Known for its apples and peaches, this orchard offers a delightful apple-themed playground, perfect for young adventurers. Visitors can pick their own apples, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the picturesque grounds, and treat themselves to fresh apple turnovers and other delectable goodies at the on-site bakery.

• Deal's Orchard: Deal's Orchard in Jefferson, Iowa, is a treasure trove of apple varieties, featuring more than 25 different types to satisfy every taste preference. Along with apple-picking, visitors can explore the corn maze, take a scenic wagon ride, and indulge in homemade apple pies and fritters. Their charming gift shop offers a selection of apple-related products and local crafts, making it an ideal place to find unique souvenirs to remember the delightful visit.

Central Iowa's orchards offer a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. From apple-picking adventures to pumpkin-filled excursions, these five orchards provide an immersive and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're seeking fresh produce or simply a picturesque day out in nature, these orchards are sure to leave you with cherished autumn memories. Plan your trip today and relish the seasonal magic that awaits in the heart of Iowa.

The Quartz Team

(515) 298-2900

4820 100th St, Urbandale, IA 50322