5 Apple Orchards Near the Quad Cities to Visit This Fall

There’s something about Autumn in the Quad Cities that makes us want to grab a cozy sweater, find some apple cider, and spend an afternoon at an apple orchard.

Luckily, you don't have to drive hours away to enjoy a classic Fall day at the farm. There are several apple orchards within an easy drive of the Quad Cities, whether you're looking to pick your own apples, grab fresh cider or simply enjoy a Fall outing.

Here are five orchards worth checking out this season.

5. Stone's Apple Barn — East Moline

The longtime local favorite is known for its apples, fresh cider, caramel apples, preserves, honey and other Fall treats. The orchard has also offered pick-your-own apples and has more than 55 varieties.

Address: 16115 Hubbard Road, East Moline, IL, United States, 61244

4. Camp Creek Farm & Orchard — Lynn Center

Just outside Orion, Illinois, Camp Creek Farm & Orchard is another nearby option for apple picking.

The farm is located at 3753 N. 1100th Ave. in Lynn Center, about three miles south of Orion. The orchard says it plans to open for the season by Labor Day weekend, with U-pick information posted as the season gets closer.

This is more of a simple, old-fashioned apple-picking experience rather than a giant Fall festival. You can pick your own apples, enjoy apple cider donuts and take in a day on the farm.

3. Indian Hills Orchard — Fulton

Head north toward Fulton, Illinois, and you'll find Indian Hills Orchard.

Located at 18405 Frog Pond Road, the orchard grows 14 varieties of apples, including Fuji, Gala and Honeycrisp. Fresh-picked apples are available during the Fall, with occasional U-pick weekends depending on the season.

If you're looking for a quieter orchard experience without all the giant attractions, this could be a great choice.

2. Gravert's Apple Basket Orchard — Sabula, Iowa

If you're up for a scenic drive, Gravert's Apple Basket Orchard in Sabula is worth adding to your Fall list.

The family-owned orchard sits along Iowa's Great River Road and features more than 65 varieties of apples growing on more than 600 trees. Visitors can pick their own apples or stop by the general store for apples, homemade jams, cider, honey, pickles and other goodies.

It's open seasonally from late August through November, although hours can vary throughout the season.

1. Tanners Orchard — Speer, Illinois

For a full-blown Fall day, make the drive to Tanners Orchard in Speer, Illinois.

Tanners is about an hour from the Quad Cities and offers much more than apple picking. The farm features U-pick apples, a corn maze, farm animals, pumpkins, a farm market, bakery and its Back 40 Fun Acres.

Apple picking typically runs from September into October, depending on the crop. The orchard has more than 11,000 apple trees and 17 varieties, so there are plenty of apples to choose from.

And if you're already making the drive, don't leave without checking out the Apple Bin Bakery for cider donuts, caramel apples, pies and other Fall favorites.

Time to Get Your Apple-Picking Plans Ready

Whether you want something close to home or you're looking for a full Fall day trip, there are plenty of ways to enjoy apple season around the Quad Cities.

Just remember that orchard hours, apple varieties and U-pick availability can change throughout the season based on weather and what's ripe. It's always smart to check with the orchard before heading out.