Hey friends! If you’re anything like me, that first cool morning in late August has you craving an apple cider slushie and dreaming of orchard strolls. 🍏🍎 Whether you’re picking apples, sipping cider, or just there for the donuts (no shame), these local orchards are perfect for day trips from Omaha. Here’s a list of 8 must-visit orchards — all within about an hour or so from the metro.
Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard – Council Bluffs, IA (11 miles from Omaha)
A longtime Council Bluffs favorite, Ditmars is one of those orchards where there’s truly something for everyone. Littles will love the playground, corn maze, baby goats, and chickens — while the grown-ups can relax with a glass of their house-made wine or hard cider. 🎈 Don’t miss their Friday night movie events or hot air balloon appearances. And during harvest season, the zinnia fields are absolutely dreamy.
Fontanelle Orchard – Nickerson, NE (54 miles from Omaha)
Nestled just north of Fremont, Fontanelle Orchard is a charming, family-owned spot that feels like stepping back in time. Stop in their rustic general store for a homemade pie (trust me, they’re that good) or stock up on seasonal produce and preserves. It’s small-town cozy in the best way possible.
Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard – Nebraska City, NE (46 miles from Omaha)
Celebrating 100 years of fruit, festivals, and family fun, Kimmel Orchard is a must-visit. From their U-Pick apple groves and scenic trails to a full line-up of fall festivals like the AppleJack Festival and Scarecrow Festival, there’s always something happening here. 🍷 Don’t skip the tasting room, where you can try their wines and local goodies. Bonus: They’re planning a German Christmas Market this December!
Martin’s Hillside Orchard – Ceresco, NE (43 miles from Omaha)
This one’s a gem if you’ve got kiddos (or you just love a good cider slush). Martin’s is packed with wholesome, hands-on fun — a corn maze, butterfly garden, tire mountain, and a tractor trike track that’s always a hit. Pick your own apples, sip on fresh cider, and soak in the peaceful country vibes. 🍂 Did you know? It takes over 30 apples to make just one gallon of cider!
Picnic Hill Orchard – Lincoln, NE (58 miles from Omaha)
Picnic Hill is family-run and absolutely bursting with flavor — literally. With over 20 varieties of apples, U-Pick fields, a produce market, and a snack stand slinging cider, donuts, slushies, and ice cream, you won’t leave hungry. It’s a peaceful and photogenic spot just outside of Lincoln, and ideal for a slow Sunday road trip.
Super Bee Orchard – Fort Calhoun, NE (18 miles from Omaha)
Super Bee is a sweet little stop just outside the city that packs in a ton of local charm. U-Pick apples, peaches, and raspberries are just the start. You can also shop their market for bee pollen, honeycomb, jams, caramel apples, and more — all homemade with love. 🐝 Family-owned and proud of it!
Union Orchard – Union, NE (37 miles from Omaha)
Known for their fall festivals and sweet treats, Union Orchard is a festive spot with hayrack rides, apple turnovers, and fresh cider calling your name. They also have an Apple Market in Nebraska City if you’re short on time. 🍎 Bonus: They carry wines from their own vineyard and other Nebraska makers, making it a great place to grab a bottle for your next gathering.
Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard – Gretna, NE (24 miles from Omaha)
You probably already have Vala’s on your Halloween to-do list, but hear me out — their Apple Orchard deserves its own visit. 🍏 Wander the rows of trees, pick your apples, and then head straight to the Cider Mill where the donuts are warm and the hard cider is flowing. This 400-acre wonderland has over 50 attractions, food stands galore, and yes — plenty of autumn magic.
Fall is just beginning, and there’s no better way to lean into the season than with a trip to an orchard. Not quite pumpkin patch season just yet, but don’t worry — I’ve got your back when it is. Bookmark my full Pumpkin Patch Guide right here so you’re ready to roll once October hits!
Happy picking,
Cara 🍎
