Fall Haul: Apple Picking at Fischer's Croix Farm (No Car Needed!)

Juni Park — Seward, Minneapolis
Korean-American UX designer, outdoors obsessive, the person your friend group texts when nobody can agree on what to do Saturday.

Alright, folks, it's September, the leaves are thinking about changing, and the air has that crisp 'you're gonna need a flannel' vibe. What does that mean for us? Apples. Lots of glorious, crunchy, Minnesota-grown apples. And before you groan about finding a ride, let's talk about how to hit up a fantastic orchard without needing your own set of wheels.

My pick for a perfect fall day trip is Fischer's Croix Farm Orchard in Hastings. It's a bit of a trek, but totally worth it for the classic orchard experience without the overwhelming crowds you sometimes find at the super-famous spots. Plus, it's genuinely beautiful out there.

Your Day at Fischer's: Pick, Play, & Snack

Fischer's is the real deal: U-pick apples, a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, farm animals, and all the fall treats you could want. It’s got that relaxed, family-run feel that just makes you happy.

Apple Picking Pro-Tips

• What's Ripe? Check their website or call ahead for what varieties are ready for picking. September usually means Honeycrisp, Haralson, Sweetango, and more.
• Bring a Bag (or Five): While they provide bags, bringing your own reusable totes helps, especially if you plan to go big.
• Dress for Success: Layers are key. Mornings can be chilly, afternoons sunny. Wear shoes you don't mind getting a little dusty (or muddy, if it's rained).
• The Haul: Apples are priced by the pound. Budget around $2-3 per pound, depending on the variety. You'll probably pick more than you think.

Beyond the Bins: Other Fun Stuff

Once your apple quota is met, there's plenty more to explore:

• Corn Maze: Usually a few bucks to enter, and a great way to work off those apple donuts.
• Farm Animals: A small petting area for the goats and other critters. Free to observe, usually.
• Pumpkin Patch: If you're also in the market for a gourd, they've got a great selection. Prices vary by size.
• The Farm Store: This is where the magic happens. Freshly made apple cider donuts (my weakness), hot apple cider, caramel apples, and local honey. Grab a dozen donuts, trust me.

The Money Talk: What It Costs

This is a pretty budget-friendly day, especially if you pack some snacks. The main cost will be the apples you pick. Figure on:

• Apples: $15-$30 for a decent haul (5-10 lbs).
• Corn Maze: ~$5 per person.
• Donuts/Cider: ~$10-$15 for a dozen donuts and a cup of cider.
• Transit: ~$2.50-$3.25 for a Metro Transit bus fare each way. Your bike fuel is free!
• Total Estimate: You can easily do this for $30-$50 per person, depending on how many apples you snag and how many treats you indulge in.

Skip this if: You're allergic to sunshine, sticky hands, or the idea of a little fresh air. Also, if you absolutely refuse to bike more than a mile, this might not be your ideal car-free adventure. Yes, I own Yaktrax, no I don't like it either, but sometimes you gotta put in the work for the reward.

Getting There (The Juni Way)

Okay, so I don't own a car, and you might not either. No problem, just means we get a little more creative. Fischer's is about 30 miles southeast of Minneapolis, so it's a bit of a journey, but totally doable for a dedicated day trip.

By Bike & Bus (My Go-To)

This is my preferred method if I'm not carpooling. Hop on the Metro Transit Route 480 heading south. It'll take you to the Cottage Grove Park & Ride. From there, it's about a 10-12 mile bike ride to the orchard. The route involves some pleasant, though not always dedicated, bike-friendly county roads and scenic stretches. Make sure your bike is in good shape and bring water!

For the truly ambitious, you can make it a full bike trip from Minneapolis or St. Paul. It's a solid 25-30 miles one way, often utilizing parts of the Gateway State Trail before transitioning to quieter rural roads. Pack a lunch and make it an epic ride if you go this route.

Carpooling with a Friend (The Easy Button)

Let's be real, sometimes a friend with a car is the best accessory. Offer to split gas money, buy their donuts, and be their designated apple-hauling assistant. It’s the easiest way to get there and allows you to load up on even more apples without worrying about bike panniers.

Driving (If You Borrow or Rent)

If you do end up with a car for the day, it's a straightforward drive. Head south on US-61 or US-52, then follow local signs to Hastings. There's plenty of free parking right at the orchard. It's about a 35-45 minute drive from South Minneapolis, depending on traffic.

Final Thoughts & What to Bring

• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated out in the fields.
• Sunscreen/Hat: Even in September, the sun can sneak up on you.
• Snacks: While there are treats, a few protein bars or a sandwich will save you money.
• Cash: Some smaller vendors or activities might be cash-only.
• Backpack: To carry your haul and layers.

Embrace the chill, the fresh air, and the sheer joy of biting into an apple you picked yourself. It's peak Minnesota fall, and it's calling your name.

Enjoying this? Get Minnesorta in your inbox every week — no fluff, just good Twin Cities stuff.

Photo by Gary Fultz on Unsplash