Seven generations of the Burch family have worked this North East farm, which remains a family-owned operation today. Its roots in local fruit growing now support a year-round country market and winery, with the 5,000-square-foot market opening in 2005 and cider production beginning in 2000. Burch Farms also opens its historic farmland to visitors and private gatherings.
Ritter's Cider MillThe Ritter family has run this Pennsylvania farm destination since Gary and Debra Ritter began making cider with Gary’s parents in 1978. Today, the family preserves an old-fashioned approach centered on cleanliness, freshness, and a friendly seasonal welcome, with visitors able to watch production and choose freshly picked apples for themselves.JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP, PA
Beak & Skiff Apple OrchardsFounded in 1911 by an onion farmer and a dairy farmer, family-owned Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards grows apples in Lafayette, New York and turns its harvest into fresh cider and other orchard-made beverages. Now in its fifth generation, the operation spans more than 350,000 apple trees and carries the crop from tree to cider mill, tasting room, or distillery on the farm. Its Apple Hill campus also brings the public into the orchard through pick-your-own apples, the Apple Barn, and seasonal family attractions.LA FAYETTE, NY
Way Fruit FarmSixth-generation family-owned Way Fruit Farm has been part of Centre County’s agricultural community since 1826, growing from an orchard planted with a wedding gift of 1,000 apple trees in 1872. Today, Jason and Megan Coopey run the Halfmoon Valley farm, whose harvest reaches neighbors through its farm store and café while its seasonal events keep the property a gathering place. The family also operates A Way To Help, a nonprofit supporting local children and families facing small, unexpected hardships.STATE COLLEGE, PA