Pumpkin Patches and Apple Picking Near Arlington, VA

Here is your quick, local guide to the best pumpkin patches and apple orchards within easy reach of Arlington. Use this to plan a cozy coffee run, a family photo day, or a full fall weekend.
Updated: September 12, 2025 · Arlington, VA

TLDR

• Closest big fall festival experience: Cox Farms in Centreville.

• Best all-in-one farm day in the foothills: Great Country Farms in Bluemont. Note limited apple picking on weekends for 2025 due to freeze impacts.

• Scenic u-pick orchards with pumpkins: Hollin Farms in Delaplane and Stribling Orchard in Markham.

• Maryland favorite with a big pumpkin festival: Butler’s Orchard in Germantown.

Where to go

Cox Farms — Centreville, VA

The region’s blockbuster fall festival with slides, hayrides, animals, and a giant market. 2025 festival runs Sept 20 to Nov 9 with varying hours. Tickets are date based, and peak weekends sell fast, so book early. Cox Farms+1

Good to know: Preview weekend dates may differ from regular season, and last entry is typically one hour before closing. FXVA

Great Country Farms — Bluemont, VA

A full-day outing with pumpkin picking, corn maze, pig races, cider donuts, and farm activities. Pumpkin Harvest Festival runs through October. Important 2025 note: spring freeze reduced apple crop, so pick-your-own apples are limited and often weekday only as supplies allow. Check availability before you go. greatcountryfarms.com+2greatcountryfarms.com+2

Tip: Pumpkins are most plentiful from late September. greatcountryfarms.com

Hollin Farms — Delaplane, VA

Family run u-pick with apples through October, Asian pears, and even dig-your-own potatoes. Low-key setting with great hilltop views. Check the Current Available page on the morning of your visit for varieties and rules. hollinfarms.com+1

Stribling Orchard — Markham, VA

Historic orchard with apples, pumpkins, baked goods, and weekend vibes that feel very classic Virginia. Watch their feeds for what is ripe and any special events. Facebook+2Yelp+2

Butler’s Orchard — Germantown, MD

A perennial favorite just over the river. Pumpkin Festival 2025 runs Sept 20 to Nov 2 with weekday and weekend hours, plus separate tickets for festival and pick-your-own pumpkins. Expect hayrides, slides, and a big farm market. Butler's Orchard+2Butler's Orchard+2

Mackintosh Fruit Farm — Berryville, VA

Shenandoah Valley views, u-pick apples in season, and a cider room. Open May through October with posted PYO hours. Always check the farm’s current harvest updates before you go. mackintoshfruitfarm.com+1

Planning tips

• Check availability the morning of your visit. Crop supply can change daily in 2025, especially for apples. Farms update sites and social feeds first. hollinfarms.com+1

• Buy tickets ahead for peak weekends. Many farms require timed entry or sell out. Cox Farms+1

• Arrive early and pack layers. Mornings are calmer, afternoons warmer, and fields can be breezy.

• Know pet policies. Service animals are welcome, but most farms do not allow pets. Check each site. Butler's Orchard

Key Takeaways

• You have six strong options within a reasonable drive of Arlington, from big festivals to quiet orchards.

• 2025 apple picking is tighter at some farms due to spring freeze; verify weekday vs weekend availability. greatcountryfarms.com+1

• Peak pumpkin selection is typically late September into early October. greatcountryfarms.com

• Advance tickets reduce wait times on October weekends. Cox Farms

FAQ

Do I need tickets?
Often yes, especially for festivals and October weekends. Buy online in advance when possible. Cox Farms+1

Are strollers and wheelchairs okay?
Paved and packed paths are common at larger venues, but fields can be uneven. Check each farm’s accessibility notes.

Can I pick apples and pumpkins on the same day?
Usually yes at farms that offer both, but apple picking may be limited in 2025. Verify daily availability. greatcountryfarms.com

When is the best time to go for photos with fewer crowds?
Weekday mornings in early October are your best bet.

What should I bring?
Water, snacks, closed-toe shoes, and a small blanket for the market lawn. Many farms sell cider and donuts on site.

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