A Guide to Apple Orchards Around the 715

Ferguson’s Orchards

Ferguson’s Orchard in Eau Claire is one of four locations throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota. They originally began growing fruit in the 1870’s in Galesville, and expanded to their other locations throughout the years. The Eau Claire orchard began growing apples in the 1980’s, and the Ferguson family bought the orchard in 2011 and planted 40,000 trees by 2014. Ferguson’s is a great place for family fun, because the orchard includes a corn maze, apple cannons, farm animals, pedal tractors, and wagon rides. Kids 2 and under are free, senior and military pay $13 for admission, and everyone else pays $15. They also have a market with gifts, apple-flavored mixes, butters, and jams, and bakery items (including apple cider donuts, which are to die for) at the orchard. Ferguson’s is open now, so head on over to Balsam Road and get your apple fix!

The Glass Orchard

The Glass Orchard is a unique apple orchard, because they don’t just sell apples. They are known for their glass blowing demonstrations and glass blown gifts. The orchard is 15 acres, and it was planted in the 1980s. They produce 11 varieties of apples, sell wine, fresh apple cider, donuts, and art in their store, which is open from September to December. This year, they opened on September 9th. They also host classes about glass blowing and glass fusing. Drop in this season to see the unique gifts and grab some apples while you’re at it!

Leffel Roots

Leffel Roots is an apple orchard on Maple Road in Eau Claire, and they serve all the apple goodies in their store as well as boast a large selection of apples. They have a corn maze (open at night!!), fresh fried donuts, and live music on several days throughout the fall. They also have a pumpkin patch with squash and gourds. They are the only orchard in the area with wheelchair-accessible picking areas. Leffel Roots is an astounding apple orchard and definitely worth a visit. They opened September 6th and will be open until October 22!

Dixon’s Autumn Harvest Winery

Visit Dixon’s Autumn Harvest Winery on fall weekends to taste their signature Champagne apples, first discovered by Fred Dixon, as well as their other varieties of apples. Dixon’s is nestled in the rolling hills of the Chippewa Valley, and was the first winery in Chippewa Falls. They produce a variety of wines, including apple wines. They’re open May through October. Check them out!

Bushel and a Peck

Bushel and a Peck Orchard was planted over a century ago and boasts over 20,000 trees and over 30 apple varieties. They also have a pumpkin patch, as well as sell U-Pick raspberries during raspberry season. They’re open now!

AVEnue Orchard

Located on Highway 53 in Eau Claire, AVEnue Orchard is a great orchard that sells cider, jams, butters, and jellies, as well as apples. They have 15 types of apples as well as plums and pears as well. Give them a visit this fall!