by Asia Jones
Find ways to make your heart, mind, and body happy this month! A fun way to focus on emotional wellness while enjoying the tastes of autumn is by spending some time in the fresh air picking apples.
You’re probably familiar with the expression “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” because of the high nutritional value of some apples, including improving heart and lung health as well as supporting gut health. What you might not know is that apples, via apple picking, can also boost brain health and psychological wellbeing. According to Psychology Today, there is a range of reasons to get out to your local apple orchard including:
Getting Physical. Picking apples gets you out of the house and provides a break from sedentary habits that can hinder your physical health.
Happy Feelings. Going outside and being in nature helps boost your mood and time in nature is generally associated with more positive feelings.
Relationship Building. Picking apples with friends can also provide a great opportunity to build relationships as you spend quality time together. This bonding can be especially effective and enjoyable when it’s done as part of a family tradition.
So, not only do apples taste great whether made into butter, a pie, or crisps — but they can also do wonders for your physical and emotional health! If you’re looking for some places around KC to get started picking apples, we’ve got a list for you!
Megan and Jason at Louisburg Cider Mill a few years ago
Cider Hill Family Orchard KCK – This is a U-Pick orchard where you can pick your own apples or have staff pick them for you! Visit to enjoy the end of the apple-picking season at this family orchard, enjoy a hayride or spend some time with family by their fire pit.
Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins – Don’t let the name fool you, there are plenty of apples to pick once you make it to this spot in Belton, Mo! They provide a U-pick option on Mondays in October from 10 am to noon. There are a variety of other produce to pick from and the option of waived admission for certain groups.
Sunflower Orchards – Make plans to spend a day exploring this orchard in Eastern Kansas. They offer mouth-watering apples and a u-pick option from a number of their 2,000+ trees!
Gieringer’s Family Orchard & Berry Farm – This location has u-pick crops year round and now is the perfect time to pick some late-season apples. Get a group of friends together and head out to Edgerton, KS!
Weston Orchard – Bring the family and friends together in Weston, Mo to enjoy more than 50 acres of fresh produce for you to pick now through November! Children can enjoy the play zones and treats while adults try out their wine selection and the market.
Louisburg Cider Mill – Enjoy some fun experiences at this family farm including taking their guided tour, visiting their country store, and live bluegrass music each weekend through the end of the month. While you’re there, you can also try some of their famous apple cider and cider donuts.
We know there are plenty more orchards you can visit but we wanted to give you a good starting point so you can begin planning your next friends or family outing. Pile into the car and get started making fun fall memories!