The Best Apple Orchard in Stillwater MN for a Fall Getaway
Fall Is Peak Season for an Apple Orchard in Stillwater MN
Every September, the orchards outside Stillwater, Minnesota start dropping ripe Honeycrisp, SweeTango, and Zestar apples, and the hills along the St. Croix River Valley turn the kind of deep gold that makes for one of the best fall getaways in the Twin Cities.
If you are searching for the best apple orchard in Stillwater MN, you have three worth building a day around, each a short drive from downtown. When you stay a night in a historic riverfront inn near all the best things to do in Stillwater you have a romantic fall getaway from the Twin Cities.
Aamodt’s Apple Orchard, Stillwater’s Classic Pick Your Own Stop
Aamodt’s Apple Orchard has grown apples along the St. Croix River Valley since 1948, and it remains the orchard most people picture when they think of apple picking near Stillwater. Pick your own Honeycrisp, SweeTango, Zestar, and Haralson apples straight from the trees, or grab a pre-picked bag inside the historic apple barn. Don’t miss the neighboring St. Croix Vineyards. There is no admission fee at Aamodt’s, you only pay for what you pick, ride, or taste at Thor’s Hard Cider tasting room next door.
Pine Tree Apple Orchard, Worth the Extra Drive for the Bakery
If you do not mind driving a little further, Pine Tree Apple Orchard in White Bear Lake has been family owned since 1904, with more than 300 acres planted across the property. Pine Tree does not offer pick-your-own apples; the fruit is sorted and sold in the retail barn, but the tradeoff is a bakery known across the Twin Cities for its apple pie and cider donuts. Fall weekends bring a corn maze, pony rides, and a pumpkin patch, making this a solid choice if you want the orchard experience without the fieldwork.
Sunnybrook Apple Orchard for a Quieter Visit
Sunnybrook Apple Orchard is the newest and smallest of the three, with its first trees planted in 2016. The orchard has grown into roughly two dozen acres with about a mile of walking trails, growing Honeycrisp, SweeTango, Zestar, and the smaller Chestnut Crab variety, alongside cider, honey, and homemade jam. Sunnybrook sits along the Gateway bike and horse trail near Jamaca Crossing, so it is a natural stop if you are already out cycling for the day and want a quieter, less crowded orchard visit.
Where to Stay for Your Stillwater MN Fall Getaway
After a day walking orchard rows, Water Street Inn is the easiest place to base your Stillwater MN lodging around. This historic 1890 inn sits directly on the St. Croix River in the heart of downtown Stillwater, within walking distance of Main Street’s shops and galleries and close to the Historic Lift Bridge. Guest rooms carry a Victorian style with two person spa tubs in every room, and select rooms add gas fireplaces or private balconies with river views.
You can eat and drink without leaving the building too. Charlie’s Restaurant and Irish Pub serves American fare with live music most weekends, and Papa’s Rooftop pours seasonal cocktails with views of boats passing under the Lift Bridge. Booking directly with the inn is the best way to lock in your rate for the fall season.
Tips for Visiting Any Apple Orchard in Stillwater MN
Weekends fill up fast during peak season in late September and early October, so a weekday morning is your best bet for shorter lines. Wear closed toe shoes for the fields, bring cash or a card for the smaller stands, and call ahead if the forecast looks uncertain, since most orchard activities are weather dependent. Mornings can start cool even when the afternoon warms up, so plan to layer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best apple orchard near Stillwater MN?
Aamodt’s Apple Orchard is the most popular choice for pick-your-own apples, wagon rides, and a working goat farm, all with no admission fee.
Can you pick your own apples at every orchard near Stillwater?
No. Aamodt’s and Sunnybrook offer pick your own picking, while Pine Tree Apple Orchard sells pre-picked apples in its retail barn instead.
How much does it cost to visit an apple orchard in Stillwater MN?
Aamodt’s and Sunnybrook charge no admission fee, you only pay for the apples, rides, or extras you choose. Confirm current pricing directly with each orchard before your visit.
When is the best time to visit an apple orchard in Stillwater MN?
Late September through mid-October is peak season, and weekday mornings are the best way to avoid weekend crowds.
Is Stillwater MN a good fall getaway?
Yes. Between apple orchards, a walkable downtown along the St. Croix River, and a historic inn to return to at the end of the day, Stillwater makes an easy one or two night fall getaway from the Twin Cities.
Ready to plan your fall getaway?
Book your stay directly at Water Street Inn for the best available rate on your Stillwater MN lodging.