DMV’s
FAMILY FUN
THE BY BARBARA NOE KENNEDY
Best Apple-Picking Orchards
Fall’s impending arrival means cooler temps, colorful autumn foliage … and apple picking! The DMV just happens
to be one of the nation’s top apple-growing regions, with a plethora of orchards offering pick-your-own apples,
along with other family-friendly festivities. There are ladders to climb, corn mazes to get lost in and apple pies to
devour. But not all orchards are made the same. Here are some of the best to ensure family memories of a lifetime.

(Note: All locations are following current COVID-related mandates.)
Butler’s Orchard, Germantown, Maryland
People drive miles and miles to pick fruit, vegetables and
flowers (and Christmas trees!) at this popular 350-acre farm in
Montgomery County. Apple picking, of course, is the star of the
show from mid-September to mid-October, when six varieties of
apples are ripe on the branches, including Autumn Gala (which
was discovered right here in Maryland). Part of the fun is the
farm market, the 5-acre farm park with its cute animals and The
Farmer’s Porch cafe. Before heading home, be sure to stock up on
fresh-made apple cider, cider donuts and apple pie.

butlersorchard.com Admission is $3 per person, age 2 and up. Reservations are required.

Closed Mondays.

8 Washington’s FAMILY AUGUST 2021