Fall is officially here, so it finally feels appropriate to get excited for all the seasonal festivities, despite it still being 80+ degrees outside. Living in Georgia this time of year is always a delight because there’s always something to do from attending one of Atlanta’s many parades and festivals to going out of the city for a little more southern charm. If you’re not from the south, take your time to enjoy the beautiful landscape while you’re in Georgia for the next few years. One of my favorite things to do in the fall is to visit the North Georgia Mountains to get a little peace from the city while appreciating the stunning views and quaint mountain towns. One of the best things I can suggest this fall is going up north and going apple picking at one of Georgia’s many apple orchards. Only a couple hours away \ from campus, going apple picking is a perfect weekend escape that is an affordable mini-vacation to give you a quick break from the semester. These are my suggestions for some of the most popular orchards to visit.  I encourage you to grab a group and friends and go see for yourselves.
Photo courtesy of tripadvisor.com.Â
If you’re from Georgia, chances are you’ve been to Jaemor Farms with your family at some point when you were a kid driving to the mountains. They, of course, have apple picking, but what really makes this place stand out is their amazing selection of fresh fruits and delicious pastries and ice cream in their market. This location is also very close to Tallulah Falls, a must see for any out of towner.
Photo courtesy of reeceorchards.com.
BJ Reece Orchards is in Ellijay, Georgia, a place known for its gorgeous scenery. In addition to apple picking, this spot has a delicious market and bakery that sells fresh baked apple desserts and ciders. For a little extra excitement, they also have pig races, and you can even milk a cow. This is the place is you want to experience a little country fun.
Photo courtesy of blueridgemountains.com.
I saved the best (i.e. my personal favorite) for last – the apple of my eye, Mercier Orchards. This location is so beautiful and pleasant to walk around on a sunny day, even if you don’t go apple picking. Their apple market is the best of the best with so many varieties of apple concoctions, but my favorite thing about this orchard is that it’s in Blue Ridge, Georgia. After you’re done visiting Mercier, you can pop into downtown and enjoy the rest of your day among charming shops and restaurants.
Just because fall break is around the corner doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a study break and make some wonderful memories at an orchard as fall begins! Happy pickings!