We booked a time slot for Saturday online, which is definitely the way to go. Once we arrived we were able to go right in, whereas those who did not have reservations were told it was about an hour and a half wait. We thought the sunflowers were not available past September 8th but were pleasantly surprised that there was still a nice crop to view and take pictures.
The parking lot was full when we got there, but we ended up finding a spot after two drive arounds. There was an attendant at the front, but was not very useful. I was slightly annoyed once we arrived when they asked me to show my reservation on my phone, before I could proceed. My phone had died and my car charger had broke. I ended up having to stand there trying to bring it up on my friends phone, and then being blocked by the Google email verification system. Finally they let me pass and there was an employee with an iPad who could verify my reservation in two seconds. What was the point of stressing me out when you literally had someone there who could verify it easily!?
Once we were inside it got better. Loved the tractor driver - super funny. They have sunflowers, a pumpkin patch, a corn maze and some trees for Apple picking. Only the Gala, Cortland and McIntosh are available right now, which was disappointing, because I wanted a few different kinds that are good for Apple pie baking and only Cortland was available for that. They had a guy who was very informative and helped tell you where the trees were. You can fill your ten pound bag as long as it can close for $20, and then there was one smaller version.
It was not overly crowded once you were in the grounds, and there was a good selection of activities, (which was a major reason for choosing this orchard) and some great props for photos.
I'm not sure if the store has less items available for purchase because of covid, but we didn't find a great selection. They had some items outside, as well as gelato and some pies for sale. Then they also had honey, jams, coffee mugs etc. We were surprised they didn't offer Apple cider. After, we went and had a nice dinner at Caledon Villa Inn which was a very nice venue with incredible wait staff; and is not far from the orchard.
All in all, it was a great day, but this is not my favorite orchard and I wouldn't choose to come back. It just seemed a little disorganized (especially at the beginning), would have liked more variety for purchases (my favorite place has apple cider slushees and fresh baked apple doughnuts, and just a nicer feel to it). read more