Where to Go Apple & Fruit Picking Near Wenatchee
U-pick farms, orchard tips, and kid-friendly fruit adventures in the Apple Capital of the World
When you live in Wenatchee, you're not just surrounded by orchards — you’re part of a legacy. This valley isn’t called the Apple Capital of the World for nothing. From cherries and peaches in early summer to apples and pumpkins in the fall, there’s always something in season to pick — and kids love being part of the harvest.
Here’s your go-to guide for fruit picking in and around Wenatchee, including what’s in season, where to go, and how to make the most of it.
What’s in Season?
Late June – Early July: Strawberries & Cherries
Mid-July – August: Peaches, Nectarines, Apricots, Plums
September – October: Apples & Pears (and pumpkins, too!)
Many local farms also offer corn, grapes, and seasonal veggies — so don’t be afraid to explore beyond just apples.
Local U-Pick Farms Near Wenatchee
Stutzman Ranch – Wenatchee
A favorite for families. You can pick cherries, peaches, nectarines, and apples — and the views of the valley are beautiful.
Kid Perk: They provide little buckets and wagons for hauling fruit (and kids!).
Note: They post picking updates on Facebook regularly.
Smallwood’s Harvest – Peshastin (25 min away)
Part farm, part market, part petting zoo — this place is a total win with kids. While not a traditional U-pick, they offer a wide selection of local fruit for sale, along with play areas, goats, and tractor rides.
Kid Perk: It’s basically an afternoon outing on its own.
Bill's Berry Farm – Grandview (2 hours away — worth a fall day trip)
This farm is legendary for its festivals. Cherry Days in summer, Apple & Pumpkin Festival in the fall. U-pick fruit, hayrides, cider pressing, and food trucks.
Mom Tip: Bring cash and go early — it gets busy.
Thompson’s Farm – Naches (1.5 hours)
Incredible fall fun with u-pick apples and pumpkins, plus a corn maze, hayrides, and a cute farm store.
Kid Perk: Pony rides and train rides on weekends.
Columbia Fruit Packers Market – East Wenatchee
Not U-pick, but they often sell fruit seconds and local produce at great prices — great for baking or canning moms.
Tips for a Successful Fruit-Picking Day with Kids
Go early (especially in summer) — it gets hot and the good fruit gets picked fast!
Bring your own containers or bags (some farms charge for theirs).
Wear closed-toe shoes — orchards can be muddy and dusty, and the ground is uneven.
Pack water, sunscreen, and wipes — fruit picking is sticky business.
Set expectations with littles — only pick ripe fruit, be gentle with the trees, and don’t eat while picking (unless the farm allows it).
What to Do With All That Fruit
Make a crisp, cobbler, or homemade freezer jam
Host a fruit tasting party with different apple varieties
Slice and freeze extras for smoothies and baking
Dehydrate apples for lunchbox snacks
Donate extras to neighbors or a local food pantry
Final Thoughts
There’s something so grounding about letting your kids run through an orchard and pull fresh fruit from a tree. It slows us down. It connects us to our community. And honestly? It just tastes better when you pick it yourself.
So grab your baskets, round up your little helpers, and make some sweet summer (or fall) memories — one fruit at a time.
