Being a native Floridian, I can tell you that we don’t really get seasons. Our “fall” still consists of 90-degree weather, swimsuits, and dodging hurricanes. So when I got the opportunity to travel to see my best friend in South Carolina during fall, I said, “Bring on the sweater weather,” and I bought my plane ticket immediately.
Although it was a long weekend trip and not nearly long enough to take in the leaves changing and the cooler weather, we did manage to pack a lot into my mini fall getaway. The highlight, of course, being Windy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill in York, South Carolina.
Located an hour outside of Charlotte, this is a great day trip for all ages. Open every fall from mid-August until Christmas, visitors have the opportunity to pick their own apples, try the award-winning hard ciders, and, of course, order multiple dozens of apple cinnamon donuts.
If you are interested in picking your own apples, picking season starts around early September and lasts until late September/early October. Because of the popularity of Windy Hill Orchard, you will need to plan ahead and make a reservation.
Also make sure to plan your visit between Friday and Sunday to take advantage of the cider bar, where you can try many different varieties of hard apple cider. From traditional cider to flavored ones, there will be something for everyone (above the age of 21) to enjoy.
Most importantly, plan to spoil your lunch or dinner when you try one of their famous hot apple cinnamon donuts. I was very skeptical of this before trying, mainly because I am not a big apple-flavored person. But oh my, was my mind blown! These things are amazing and well worth whatever drive you have to make to purchase them.
Finally, on select weekends, there is local live music to enjoy, as well as hayrides, which makes Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill the perfect fall weekend activity.
PS: If you go, please send me donuts!
