Aamodt’s Apple Farm is the classic autumn outing near Stillwater, a family-owned orchard that has operated for decades and combines pick-your-own apples with a farm-fair atmosphere. The main attraction is picking your own fruit from the orchard rows, and the farm adds wagon rides and a tractor-pulled kiddie train, a John Deere trike and tractor farm for small children, a hay bale maze, a hay mountain and a goat farm. Food and drink include apple brats, apple pies and cider, and Saint Croix Vineyards shares the property, so adults can add a wine tasting to the day. Stillwater has been named one of America’s best towns for fall colours, and the orchard fits naturally into a leaf-peeping weekend.
Planning
The season is autumn, and the farm’s website lists which varieties are ripe, which changes week to week. Weekends in September and October are very busy, with traffic and car park queues, so arrive early or visit on a weekday. Ask about entry fees, pricing by the bag and whether the farm sells tickets for particular activities, as these arrangements vary. Outside apple season, check whether the farm and vineyard are open at all, because some activities are seasonal.
What to expect
The visit has a county-fair feel, with families, strollers and long lines at weekends. Pick-your-own is physical, so wear sturdy shoes and be ready for muddy ground after rain. Children enjoy the hay maze, the hay mountain and the goats, and the hayride gives an easy view of the orchard rows. Honeycrisp and other classic Minnesota varieties are common, though you should check what is ripe on the day. If you want pastries, bring cash or a card and be prepared to queue.
Making the most of it
Combine the orchard with a hot air balloon flight from the same property if you are celebrating, and with a drive up the valley to Franconia or Taylors Falls. Adults who want a quieter experience can visit the vineyard separately. Pack a cooler for the fruit and the cider if you are heading back to a hotel, and consider pairing the farm with the Osceola train’s autumn colour rides for a full day of fall activities.
What to expect
The experience
A family orchard with pick-your-own apples, farm activities and a vineyard.
Best time
Weekdays in September and October.
How long
Two to four hours.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes, check what is ripe, and arrive early on autumn weekends.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and fall-colour travellers.
- Families
- Hayrides, a hay maze and goats suit young children.
- Couples
- A cosy autumn afternoon with cider and wine.
- Pair with
- A balloon flight or the Osceola train.
- Time needed
- Two to four hours.
Good questions
Can I pick my own apples?+
Yes. Picking your own is the main attraction.
What else is there for children?+
Wagon rides, a kiddie train, a trike and tractor farm, a hay bale maze, a hay mountain and goats.
Is there a vineyard?+
Yes. Saint Croix Vineyards is on the same property.
When is the best time to visit?+
Autumn, ideally a weekday during the apple season.
What food is available?+
Apple brats, apple pies and cider are on offer.