Exploring Wisconsin’s Apple Trail: 8 Must-Visit Orchards and Attractions

While fall might seem like the time for pumpkin spice and everything nice, it’s also prime apple time throughout Wisconsin.

From the best apple picking to beloved desserts like cider donuts, kringles, pies, and more, take the time this fall to savor the season with apple fun for all. Find the most delicious treats by following this apple trail throughout the Badger State. 

Erickson Orchard

Bayfield

Photo courtesy of Erickson Orchards and Country Store via Facebook

Erickson’s Orchard in Bayfield is home to a family secret recipe for legendary apple cider donuts. Visit to pick your own apples or stop by the country store for other delicious specialty baked goods like apple sticks, apple sauce, apple butter, and more. If you visit in early October, you might also be able to catch the Bayfield Apple Festival.

Leffel Roots Apple Orchard

Eau Claire

Photo courtesy of Leffel Roots via Facebook

If you’re looking for delicious apple-themed treats, stop by Leffel Roots Apple Orchard. Take time to pick your own apples then stop by for an apple cider donut sundae. You’ll also find apple pie with rave reviews as well as other treats like apple ale. 

Tom Dooley Orchards

Waupun

Photo courtesy of Tom Dooley Apple Orchard via Facebook

In addition to 20 varieties of apples, Tom Dooley Orchards also has quite an assortment of apple baked goods and pastries—from apple blossoms and puffs to caramel apple cinnamon rolls and apple scones. One Facebook reviewer wrote, “Delicious bakery that offers unique items that are not quite like other local orchards!”

Brightonwoods Orchard

Burlington

Brightonwoods grows over 150 different apple varieties, making for great diversity in snacks including apple cider, jellies, jams, apple butter, and more. While you’re there, take advantage of AeppelTreow Winery & Distillery, located on orchard grounds, where you can try out some hard apple drinks.

Barthel Fruit Farm

Mequon

Photo courtesy of Barthel Fruit Farm via Facebook

The fruit from Barthel Fruit Farm is full of apple-y goodness. The farm features a bit of all your apple favorites, like apple streusel muffins, apple cinnamon scones, mini apple crisps, apple cider slush, and more. 

The Elegant Farmer

Mukwonago

The Elegant Farmer is known for their award-winning apple pies baked in a bag. This beloved apple dessert is renowned in Wisconsin and beyond, labeled by Gourmet Magazine and Food Network as “the best pie in America.” Stop by between Sept. 9-Oct. 22 to enjoy Autumn Harvest Fest.

O & H Danish Bakery

Racine

Photo courtesy of O & H Danish Bakery

Featuring a variety of sweet apple treats, O&H Bakery is known for its donuts, Danish layer, and incredible kringle. Take home a seasonal favorite: the Fall Harvest Coffee Cake, which combines cheesecake, pie crust, and apple filling. Or, try out a Harvest kringle filled with apples and sprinkled with cinnamon and toffee. Of course, the classic apple kringle is also great any time of the year. 

Apple Holler Family Farm

Sturtevant 

This family-favorite fall destination guarantees fabulous apples and fun for everyone. With orchards to pick your own apples, a bakery, and a restaurant, there is no shortage of apple-themed delights here. In addition to classics like apple cider donuts and decadently decorated caramel apples, it’s worth a stop to try other unique apple dishes like apple pecan monkey bread or Drunkin’ Apple French toast. 

READ MORE: 8 Must-Try Farm-to-Table Restaurants in Wisconsin