Fall will be here in just a few days, so let the baking begin! Nothing signifies the end of summer quite like the heartwarming smell of an apple pie fresh out of the oven. We can all agree that, even if the filling is made from scratch, grocery store fruit isn't nearly as sweet or fresh as when you pick it straight off the tree. At Love Creek Orchards in Medina, you can sample their scrumptious apple treats that have been made with love for decades and even bring home a stash of your own pickings to bake with. Plus, you'll be just minutes away from Lost Maples State Natural Area, which arguably has the most breathtaking fall foliage in the state. A perfect autumn road trip, if you ask us!

These orchards date back to 1981, when Carol and Baxter Adams planted the very first tree. Little did they know their little experiment would become one of the most popular fall destinations for families all across Texas.

From pie to cider and everything in between, over 50 apple products are made with love in the bakery. Named one of the 40 best small-town cafes in the state by Texas Monthly, the freshness of the apples is apparent to everyone who sinks their teeth in.

Kids have an absolute blast learning about where fruit comes from and picking their own. Apple season lasts through October, so there's still plenty of time to load up a crate for autumn baking and snacking.

Grab a bite and take a seat amidst charming decor and the scent of warm spices wafting through the air. If you can't make out the sign on the far left, it says that Love Creek Orchards is the #1 supplier of Big Tooth Maples in Texas - bring one home and enjoy the vibrancy of fall in your very own yard.

What would an apple store be without pie? Texas Monthly rated this one of the best 50 apple pies in the state, and you can see why. It's piled high with layers of real apple chunks that retain their flavor and texture rather than a pile of gelatinous goo that tastes like nothing but sugar.

In addition to all the scrumptious baked goods, a variety of jams and spreads are also made fresh daily. Apple butter and "Sunshine Jam" (apple + pineapple; don't knock it 'till ya try it!) are just a couple of the flavors available. You can also have an order shipped to you if visiting in person isn't an option. More information on that here.

October means the annual Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch! With a hay bale maze, petting zoo, pig races, hayrides, storytelling, pony rides, orchard tours, apple processing, cider pressing, pumpkin painting, scarecrow building, and much more, there's festive fun to be had for all ages.

Don't miss out on this adorable photo-op! A potential family Christmas card, wouldn't y'all agree? Either way, this is a trip you'll want to cherish the memories of forever.

You'll find the orchard at 14024 TX-16, Medina, TX 78055.

The Apple Store is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, and the Patio Cafe is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Sunday.

Have you ever visited Love Creek Orchards? What was your favorite thing about it?