EDDY FRUIT FARM
Why we love it: Eddy Fruit Farm welcomes two- and four-legged visitors alike to explore its 24 acres of apple orchards. Until mid-October, visitors can pair their apples with pick-your-own Concord grapes. “We’re just an easygoing place to come pick apples,” says salesroom manager Bart Alcorn. “It’s a more relaxing trip instead of a crazy one.” Try this: The Stayman Winesap is an old-fashioned, tart red apple. 12079 Caves Road, Chesterland, 440-729-7842, eddyfruitfarm.com
HILLCREST ORCHARDS
Why we love it: Whiz around the pedal cart track or check out the corn maze at this 35-acre orchard in between collecting 10 or 20 pounds of apples. “You can spend your day outside, enjoying the sun,” says steward Bill Dodd. Try this: The hybrid Evercrisp apple combines the sweet flavors of Fuji and Honeycrisp. 50336 Telegraph Road, Amherst, 440-965-8884, hillcrestfunfarm.com
HILLSIDE ORCHARD AND FARM MARKET
Why we love it: During its harvest festival Oct. 8 & 9 get a taste of a Hillside specialty: a peanut butter and chocolate-coated Jonathan apple. “It’s the blend of the tartness of the apple and the sweetness of the peanut butter that makes that fantastic unusual flavor,” says owner Allen Bowman. Try this: The Melrose has a blend of flavors that make it great for baking. 2397 Center Road, Hinckley, 330-225-4748, hillsidefarmfresh.com
PATTERSON FRUIT FARM
Why we love it: Although the apple trees are only 50 feet from your parked car, take a free wagon ride around the orchard before you start picking. “To workers we say, ‘Imagine your grandma’s walking in here and wants to be served. How would you treat her?’ “ says co-owner Bill Patterson. Try this: Honeycrisp is crisp and predominantly sweet. 11414 Caves Road, Chesterland, 440-729-1964, pattersonfarm.com
SUNRISE FARM
Why we love it: During each October weekend, enjoy hot cider and apple fritters inside the farm’s glasshouse pavilion after you finish picking. “It’s just a beautiful place to enjoy some family time,” says co-owner Karen Whiting. Try this: The Rome Beauty is mildly sweet. 13115 Kinsman Road, Burton, 440-834-1298, sunrisefarmgifts.com