Even die-hard spring and summer fans will admit that fall trips to apple orchards are pretty much unbeatable. Luckily for us, Illinois is blessed with plenty of amazing options for those apple-picking adventures, including one just ranked amongst the 20 best in America.
Is There Anything Better Than Fall at an Illinois Apple Orchard?
But one orchard in northern Illinois stands out from the rest and just made a prestigious list of the top 20 places in the U.S. to pick your own apples, sip cider, and indulge in fresh donuts.
Honey Hill Orchard via Facebook
Honey Hill Orchard via FacebookHoney Hill Orchard: A Top Spot for Apple Picking in the U.S.
Honey Hill Orchard in Waterman, Illinois, is more than just your average apple orchard. Starting as a simple hobby back in 1965 for retired farmer Hawken Askelson, it quickly became an apple lover’s dream.
Originally, Hawken just wanted a few apple trees for his family, but Mother Nature had other plans. The trees produced way more fruit than the family could handle, so like any retired guy with too much free time, Hawken set up shop and started selling apples out of his garage. And just like that, Honey Hill Orchard was born.
Honey Hill Orchard via Facebook
Honey Hill Orchard via Facebook
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Today, Honey Hill offers over two dozen apple varieties, famous apple cider donuts, fresh pies, and caramel apples.
Plus, there’s 100% pure apple cider made from apples grown right on the farm.
Honey Hill Orchard via Facebook
Honey Hill Orchard via Facebook
For families, there’s a free petting zoo, straw maze, and wagon rides (if the weather’s on your side).
Located at 11783 Waterman Road, less than an hour southeast of Rockford, Honey Hill Orchard has no admission or parking fees. Just be sure to grab a picking bag if you want to explore the orchard and hitch a wagon ride!
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Honey Hill Orchard via Facebook
Honey Hill Orchard via Facebook
Make sure to check their website or Facebook page for picking schedules and updates.
Honey Hill is open daily 9:00-5:30 through October 31st.
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Gallery Credit: Stacker
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Publish date : 2024-09-11 09:28:00
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