The Ultimate Arizona Fall Destination: Apple Annie’s Orchard in Willcoz, AZ
Apple Annie’s Orchard in Willcox, Arizona
Nestled in the heart of Willcox, Arizona you will find Apple Annie’s Orchard It’s an amazing place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and pick your own delicious fruits straight from the trees! From July through October, the orchard is open for business and welcomes visitors to come indulge in the ultimate fruit-picking experience.
One of the best things about Apple Annie’s Orchard is the variety of fruit you can pick. There are juicy peaches, crunchy apples, and sweet pears – all ripe and ready for the taking. Trust me, nothing beats the taste of freshly picked fruit that you chose yourself! Plus, there’s something so satisfying about wandering through the orchard, basket or wagon in hand, and selecting the perfect fruit to take home with you.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! Apple Annie’s Orchard also has a fantastic market where you can find all sorts of tasty treats, including homemade pies, jams, and salsas.
Continue reading to find out everything you need to know before you go and while you are there, from someone who has gone two years in a row now!
Want to do more than fruit-picking, there are plenty of more fun activities for the whole family over at Apple Annies Pumpkin Patch, such as hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches. Be sure to stop by after fruit-picking!
Preparing for Your Visit to Apple Annie’s Orchard
Apple Annie’s Orchard is located at 2081 Hardy Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643
It’s important that you put in the correct address because Apple Annie’s has more than one location, and you want to make sure you make it to the orchard and not the pumpkin patch.
Reservations are not required to visit Apple Annie’s Orchard. You can visit daily anytime during business hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 pm, July – September, and 9:00 am – 5:30 pm in October.
Fees
The best part about visiting Apple Annie’s Orchard in Willcox, Arizona is that it’s completely free! You can wander around the property, explore the orchard, and take in all the beautiful sights and smells at your own pace.
But, if you’re looking to do some fruit picking, there is a fee for that, which we’ll get to in just a bit. Trust me, it’s worth it for the fresh, juicy fruit that you’ll get to take home with you!
Parking
Now, let’s talk about parking. Good news – it’s also completely free! There’s a large dirt lot right in front of the orchard and store entrance where you can park your car. Keep in mind that during peak season, the lot may fill up quickly, so if you arrive later in the day, you may have to park further away and enjoy a scenic walk to the orchard.
How to Dress for Apple Annie’s Orchard
When it comes to what to wear at Apple Annie’s Orchard in Willcox, Arizona, comfort is key. However, it’s best to leave your heels and sandals at home because the ground can be a bit rough and dirty. Keep in mind that you’ll be walking on dirt ground, and there may be branches or fallen fruit on the floor. Safety first, my friends!
But don’t worry, you can still look super cute for those Insta-worthy photos! I personally love to wear a cute summer dress when I visit the orchard. Paired with some booties, it’s the perfect outfit for some fruit picking fun!
Otherwise, just make sure you wear something you wouldn’t mind getting slightly dirty. I wore white shorts on one of my trips, and well that wasn’t the smartest idea on my part…
It’s important to remember that Apple Annie’s is open to the public, and other families will be there enjoying the orchard as well. While it’s great to capture the moment with some photos, it’s not a photo shoot opportunity. Please be respectful of others and dress appropriately.
What to Bring to Apple Annie’s Orchard
Packing for a day out at Apple Annie’s Orchard in Willcox, Arizona is super easy and simple! But of course, it depends on what activities you’re planning to do while you are there.
Apple Annie’s provides awesome amenities to make the visit to the orchard easier for their guests! They have pull wagons available for visitors to use during their fruit-picking adventure. Plus, to help avoid having to climb up trees to reach the fruit, they’ve got pliers to help you cut it down. However, if you prefer to pick fruit by hand, bringing gloves along can protect your hands and fingers. But no worries, it’s completely optional.
Now, let’s talk about packing for your fruit-picking haul. If you’re planning on picking a lot of fruit, I suggest bringing a basket or bag to make transporting them home a breeze. But if you forget to bring one, Apple Annie’s has got you covered with empty boxes to put your fruit in.
However, if you’re not looking to do much fruit picking and just want to walk around the orchard, snap some pictures, and maybe grab a few pieces of fruit, you really don’t need to bring anything at all. Just come with a smile and a sense of adventure, and let Apple Annie’s do the rest!
Fruit-Picking at Apple Annie’s Orchard
Are you ready to hear about all the deliciousness that awaits you at Apple Annie’s Orchard in Willcox, Arizona? Grab your baskets, and get ready to fill them up with the freshest, most delicious fruit you’ve ever tasted at Apple Annie’s Orchard!
Apple Annie’s orchard is home to over 15,000 trees, including 20+ different varieties of juicy, mouth-watering peaches, 10 different kinds of crisp, flavorful apples, and Bartlett and Asian pears that are just bursting with sweetness. No matter what kind of fruit you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find it at Apple Annie’s.
Before You Begin Picking Fruit
Once you are ready to begin picking, make sure to check in with one of the friendly staff members at the sales area. They’ll be happy to give you a map with directions to the area where picking is available that day, as well as a list of what’s ripe and ready to be plucked from the trees and plants. Plus, they’ll let you know about pricing for the fruits and veggies you’re interested in.
When it comes to picking, it’s important to stick to the rows that are marked with the name of the crop. This will ensure that you’re only harvesting the produce that is ripe and ready to be picked at that time. If there’s no sign, that means the crop isn’t quite ready for harvest yet, so please don’t pick it.
Fruit & Availability
If you’re looking for some peaches, you’re in luck because these beauties are ripe for the picking in July. If you’re a pear fan, August is your month to because that’s when the delicious Bartlett and Asian pears are ready for you to sink your teeth into.
As for apple lovers, starting in August, the orchard will be filled with the sweet aroma of fresh apples, and different varieties will be available for picking all the way through October. Check out Apple Annie’s Harvest Calendar to see when your favorite variety is available.
Apple, peaches and pears that you pick on your own are $1.99/lb. Or you have the option of buying already-picked fruit by the staff at Apple Annie’s orchard for $2.39/lb. Prices may vary. Already-picked fruit availability will vary depending on when you go and what is in season. You can check Apple Annie’s Facebook page to see what they have available.
Reminder to not pick any fruit you do not plan to purchase.
Apple Annie’s Orchard Market
After all that fruit picking, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite! Lucky for you, Apple Annie’s Orchard has got you covered!
On the weekends, the Orchard Grill serves up Applewood-smoked burgers and a delicious pancake breakfast. And don’t forget to save room for a slice of pie! Happy Zach Kettle Korn also sells their mouth-watering kettle corn and refreshments during the weekends from July to mid-September.
But wait, there’s more! You absolutely have to visit the Bakery & Fudge Kitchen during your trip to Apple Annie’s. With a 30-foot wall dedicated to all kinds of jarred goods, they have everything from homemade apple butter, syrups, salad dressings, preserves, salsas, local honey, pickled okra, and even Amish foods like cheeses and rolled butter. If you’re craving something sweet, their bakers create a tempting variety of baked goods from scratch daily. From pies and apple bread to cider donuts (only available on fall weekends) and fudge, there’s something for everyone.
Personally, I can’t resist the aroma of their freshly baked apple cider donuts. Trust me, it’s impossible to leave with just one!
And don’t forget to check out the gift shop on the second floor of the barn. They’ve got everything from holiday and farm decor to fall decor and toys for kids. Plus, the deck offers an amazing panoramic view of Apple Annie’s Orchard.
Activities & Events at Apple Annie’s Orchard
Get ready to mark your calendars because Apple Annie’s Orchard always has some amazing events lined up for their visitors!
If you love peaches, don’t miss Peach Mania! Start peach season off right with a mouth-watering Peaches & Pancakes breakfast, homemade peach pie, and Applewood-smoked burgers. This event usually takes place on weekends from the end of July through mid-August.
Next up is the Apple Harvest Celebration, where you can enjoy freshly made pancakes with hot apple topping or cider syrup, a slice of their famous homemade apple pie or apple crumb pie, and apple cider donuts made fresh right in front of you! This event takes place from the end of August to mid-September.
If you’re a fan of unique crafts, be sure to check out the Craft Fair in September. Crafters from all over Arizona come together at Apple Annie’s Orchard to offer a shopping experience like no other.
In addition to these events, Apple Annie’s Orchard is introducing a new event in 2023 called Cherry Jubilee. You’ll have the opportunity to pick your own plump cherries right off the trees, with four different sweet cherry varieties to choose from. And of course, there will be all-new cherry treats and goodies at the Bakery & Fudge Kitchen!
Last but not least, the Taste of Fall Experience is a must-attend event for all apple lovers! For two weekends in September only, Apple Annie’s Orchard will feature Apple cider slushie floats, cider donut sundaes, salted caramel topped apple pie by the slice, apple cinnamon pancake breakfast, and grilled apple burger lunches.
Make sure to keep an eye on Apple Annie’s event calendar or Facebook page for exact dates and details on these amazing events!
In conclusion, Apple Annie’s Orchard is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves fresh produce, delicious food, and fun-filled events. With over 15,000 trees and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables available throughout the season, you’ll have a blast picking your own produce and exploring the orchard.
And once you’ve worked up an appetite, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering food options to choose from at the Orchard Grill, Bakery & Fudge Kitchen, and gift shop. With so much to see and do, a trip to Apple Annie’s is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss!
So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit today and see for yourself why Apple Annie’s Orchard is one of the best attractions in the area! It’s the perfect way to spend a sunny day and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
XO,
Mayra
Want to explore more of Southern Arizona? Be sure to check out the Town Too Tough To Die, Tombstone!