Apple-picking in Buffalo!

Labor Day in Buffalo, NY, is the end to a lot of things -- summer, warm weather, being able to see ten feet in front of ourselves, but it is also the start of a lot of things, and one of our favorite things about this time of year, is apple picking!!

It's that time of year again: Time for the leaves to start changing color, the temperature to get cooler, pumpkin-flavored everything to be introduced once again (one of my favorite things! Pumpkin spice latte, please?).

There are many places in the area that provide us with the option to pick and choose our own delicious apples once fall arrives; when you get to choose your own, you know what to expect. And what's better than an activity that involves the whole family, friends or both?

If you're looking to find somewhere to pick some fresh apples, or to just trying to find a new place to try this year, here are some farms, orchards, etc. in the area that offer picking and a variety of other items.

Picking times and dates are subject to change due to weather and availability. Call for the most up-to-date picking conditions.

Becker Farms

3724 Quaker Rd., Gasport
Phone: 716-772-2211

Blackman Homestead Farm

4472 Thrall Rd., Lockport
Phone/Fax: 716-434-7116

Browns Berry Patch

14264 Roosevelt Highway (Route 18), Waterport
Phone: 585-682-5569

Falcone Farms

1707 King Rd., Forestville
Phone: 716-965-2503

Hurd Orchards

17260 Ridge Rd., Holley
Phone: 585-638-8838
Hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

2356 Shirley Rd., North Collins
Phone: 716-337-2380

Watt Farms Country Market

3121 Route 98 (Oak Orchard Road), Albion
Phone: 585-589-8000

Here are some random apple picking tips to keep in mind on the day of your adventure:

Don't throw the apples into the basket because they will get bruised and go bad quicker. Instead, place them in gently.
Don't wash the apples until right before eating, to keep them from spoiling.
Keep apples cool to keep them fresh longer.

View Apple Picking Locations Around Buffalo in a larger map

Contributed by Rachel Specht