County Line Orchard: Apple Picking Near Chicago
Apple picking is always at the top of my fall bucket list. Living in Chicago, though, it can be hard finding a good place to go. For the last several years, Jason and I have been going to County Line Orchard in Hobart, Indiana, to meet our friend out there and we love it! It’s a little under an hour drive to get there, but we get to chill and hang out in the car, which is an added bonus.
We usually like to start by going to the barn and getting some hot apple cider (or an apple cider slushie depending on the weather). I love their apple cider and it’s such a cozy way to start the day!
After we get our cider, we hop on a tractor ride around the orchard. We jump off once we see the apples we want to pick, and then casually stroll back to the barn. I usually like to get some apples to make apple sauce, apple butter, or a nice apple crisp.
County Line Orchard also has a sunflower field to the back of the orchard, but the wild sunflower field next to the parking area usually has better sunflowers (and they’re free to see).
After picking apples, we walk up to the barn and check out all of their things for sale. The first year we went, we went crazy since they have so many things. Now, we stick to getting fudge, apple cider donuts, and apple cider. We’ve also gotten their apple pie and honey products, which are also really good!
Outside of the barn, they also have pumpkins and mums to purchase.
County Line Orchard has a parking lot and a parking area right across the barn that is totally free, and has endless spaces.
Tickets for general admission are $2. They accept both cards and cash.
The nearest town is Hobart, and is about 4 miles away. If you’re getting low on gas, there’s no need to sweat it!
As always - may your weekend be full of creativity and style.
