Fall is by far my favorite time of year! And its arrival in Alabama means you’ll have the opportunity to visit several places throughout the state you might not consider the rest of the year, such as the amazing apple orchards in Alabama. Apple picking in Alabama has always been a popular fall experience. Listed below are a few of our favorite places to go apple picking near me in Alabama – each of which would be perfect for a day trip in the fall. And you can bring the kids along for some fun too!
Among the longest-running apple orchards in Alabama, Scott's Orchard is a century-old and grows 18 varieties of apples on 100 acres. In addition to these apples and other seasonal fruits, including peaches, plums, and more, this family-owned orchard is also known for its delicious cider.
Looking for places to go apple picking near me in Fackler? Crow Mountain Orchards, which opened in 1974, covers approximately 150 acres. In addition to apples, it also grows peaches, seedless grapes, pears, berries, and cherries. In the fall, guests of Crow Mountain Orchards can enjoy its famous apple cider, which is made from a secret recipe. So, not only is it an apple orchard but an apple cider mill!
Mountain View Orchards has been producing high-quality fruits since the early 1930s, making it a great choice for apple picking in Alabama. Even though different types of fruits are grown here, apples and peaches are the orchard's main fruits.
Steele Orchard has been in business since 1985 and offers 20 varieties of apples and six varieties of peaches. Located on-site is also the orchard's bakery, which offers delicious fried pies, homemade jams, apple butter, homemade ice cream, fresh cider, and more. With all it has to offer, it’s easy to see why Steele Orchards is one of the most popular apple orchards near me in Alabama.
Isom's Orchard has been in business since 1957 and is one of Alabama's top fall attractions. Covering more than 250 acres, this orchard grows different types of fruits and vegetables. It's best known for its variety of apples and delicious cider slushies. You'll definitely want to stop at one of the top apple orchards in Alabama.
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Have you been to any of these apple orchards in Alabama? Do you have a favorite apple orchard near me in Alabama? Tell us in the comments!
If you're up for some hiking in Alabama this fall, check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List for all the gear you may need.
The opening of apple orchards in Alabama isn’t the only reason fall is the best season in Alabama. Need some convincing? We thought so, which is why we’ve come up with several reasons why fall in Alabama is the BEST!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
While some folks are scooping up all things pumpkin spice and firing up their fall candles, this is the time of year I start scouring for pumpkin patches near me. If you're a kindred spirit, here's a sampling of the best pumpkin patches in Alabama. These farms and destinations span the entire state and offer experiences as varied as the communities where they're located. Explore these spots, and you'll find a new favorite fall tradition, plus the perfect pumpkins for your seasonal decor.
Searching for the "best pumpkin patches near me?" Bennett Farms has been in the same family for four generations, so family fun is especially top-of-mind in all you can expect at the pumpkin patch. You can explore the farm's beautiful grounds, which include a wildflower field and a loblolly nature trail. Games and activities galore include a hay bale maze, a corn maze, scarecrow decorating, and a rat run - just to name a few. Secure a spot at a picnic table and choose from the kitchen's variety of tasty food from burgers and barbecue to apple pies and teacakes. If you're looking for pumpkin patches near Birmingham, this one's about a one-hour drive east and open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October. For hours and more details, visit the Bennett Farms website or follow Bennett Farms on Facebook.
Looking for that ideal sunflower field photo op? You'll find it at Cornutt Farms, which opens its sunflower and pumpkin patches on Saturdays starting from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October. This fifth-generation family farm has long been known for its corn, cattle, soybeans, wheat, and hay. In 2018, the family began welcoming other families to the farm to enjoy their colorful fall crops and all the fun that comes with them. Enjoy kids' activities and treats while pumpkin shopping. Get exact hours and details on the Cornutt Farms website or on the Cornutt Farms Facebook page.
Griffin Farms operated as a dairy farm under two generations from 1961 to 1997, and the third generation came on board a decade ago to reimagine the farm as a destination for families. Today, guests can experience zip-lining, feeding animals, rock wall climbing, hayrides, a barrel train, and much more. If you're seeking pumpkin patches near Tuscaloosa, Griffin Farms is a smart choice since it's only about a 30-minute drive east. The farm welcomes the public on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Sunday from noon until 6 p.m. throughout October and is available for private groups with reservations during the week. Find more details including hours and pricing on the Griffin Farms website or visit Griffin Farms on Facebook.
Pony rides, feeding animals, picking sunflowers, and mining for gems are all things that can round out your pumpkin-picking experience at Isbell's Pumpkin Farm. The farm's 2024 fall season runs from Sept. 28 through Nov. 3 and features new, early evening hours on Thursdays and Fridays in addition to their typical Saturday and Sunday public hours. Plan to grab a treat from a food truck while you're there. The Isbell's Pumpkin Farm website offers exact hours and pricing details. Stay current on the farm's latest happenings on the Isbell's Pumpkin Farm Facebook page.
While Aplin is also a favorite spot for sunflowers, the pumpkin patch is one of the best in Alabama. Keep in mind if you're just looking to buy a pumpkin and a host of other delicious produce, this four-generation family farm also keeps its barn and store open throughout the week. You can see all they have in store on the Aplin Farms Facebook page, where you'll also find info about the pumpkin patch hours and other details when they are available.
While we do not recommend you trust these two pigs with your pumpkin carving, you are urged to keep an eye open for them and their barnyard friends at Down on the Farm, which opens its 2024 fall season from Sept. 21 through Nov. 1 on Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Visitors can feed the goats, shoot a corn cannon, romp on a playground, mine for gems, and explore a corn maze that features cartoon character Foghorn Leghorn. Get more details about hours and pricing on the Down on the Farm website or visit the Down on the Farm Facebook page.
With over 80 acres of pick-your-own pumpkins and another 20 acres solely for kids and families to play, Tate Farms is the go-to choice for people looking for pumpkin patches near Huntsville. It is North Alabama's oldest and largest retail pumpkin farm and a premier pumpkin paradise. The Tate family has been on the land since originally farming it as sharecroppers in 1867 and eventually expanded to more than 8,000 acres they own or lease today. While the pumpkin operation began in 1996, the Tates have kept it fresh with new features every year. Among the attractions for the 2024 season is North America's only dairy-go-round — a custom, Italian-made carousel featuring carved farm-themed animals. There's also the Little Farmer Playground, pedal carts, hay rides, a corn train, jumping pillows, apple cannons, and more! This place is fun for the whole family. Get all the details about hours, prices, and the latest developments on the Tate Farms website or Tate Farms Facebook page.
This goat wore its best seasonal sweater to encourage you to visit, feed it, and find yourself a pumpkin at Hidden River Farm. If that's not enough, you can also shoot an apple cannon, make scarecrows, ride ponies, tackle an obstacle course, and more as part of your pumpkin patch experience. The farm's 2024 season runs 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 20 to Nov. 3. If you want to make a full day of it, bring food to grill or picnic, or purchase food from the kitchen. Note that this is a good one for people looking for pumpkin patches reasonably near Birmingham or Huntsville because it's about an hour's drive from both cities. Visit the Hidden Rivers Farm website or Hidden Rivers Farm Facebook for more details, photos, and news.
9. Cornfield County Farms Pumpkin Patch - Wetumpka
If you're looking for pumpkin patches near Montgomery, check out Cornfield County Farms Pumpkin Patch, which is a 20-minute drive northeast of the state capital. Sunflower fields surround a central gathering space where kids dangle on tire swings affixed to the property's iconic oak tree and others enjoy concession snacks at picnic tables. The patch's 2024 dates are Sept. 30 through Oct. 29, with public hours on Saturday and Sunday and availability for group reservations Monday through Friday. Visit the Cornfield County Farms Facebook page or Cornfield County Farms website for more details.
The name fits fits The Great Pumpkin Patch, which features a big, red, barn, a large inflatables park for kids, an extreme bungee experience, a lofty hay pyramid for climbing, an expansive list of other activities, including a petting zoo, country store, arts and crafts, and food. This destination is different from the others in that it is open every day of the week. And unlike most other pumpkin patches that prohibit pets, pooches are welcomed as long as they are leashed, can handle crowds, and have owners who pick up after them. The patch's season runs from late September through early November.
Have you had a chance to visit any of these spots? Share your tips about what made your time special. Do you agree they are the best pumpkin patches in Alabama? Let us know other destinations worthy of a look. In the meantime, here are a few other ideas for fun fall activities in Alabama. If you're road-tripping to any of these places, take a peek at our ultimate road-trip essentials packing list to be prepared for the unexpected.
