Welcome to the enchanting realm of autumn in upstate New York, where the crisp air and cozy layers signal the arrival of football games and bonfires. But most importantly, it’s a time when our cravings for apple and pumpkin treats reach their peak. So, what better way to indulge in these delights than by visiting a local orchard?
For eight consecutive years, our readers have enthusiastically participated in our annual Best of the Capital Region reader poll, nominating and voting for their favorite apple orchard. The undisputed champion for all those years has been Indian Ladder Farms, a testament to the fierce competition in this category. Let’s take a closer look at the winners, starting with the 2023 finalists.
Indian Ladder Farms emerges as the 2023 champion, continuing its reign as the supreme apple orchard in the region. Families like Cailey Heffley, a resident of Glenmont, have enjoyed memorable experiences at Indian Ladder Farms, picking apples and creating lasting memories. In addition to claiming the top spot in the Best Apple Orchard category for eight consecutive years, Indian Ladder Farms has also garnered recognition for its delicious doughnuts, securing second place in 2022 and third place in 2023. Furthermore, it has been acknowledged as one of the best local breweries, achieving third place in 2022 and runner-up in 2021. And when it comes to outings with your kids, Indian Ladder Farms takes the spotlight, securing first place in 2021, second place in 2023, and third place in 2020.
Bowman Orchards claims the second-place position in the Best Apple Orchard category for 2023, continuing their consistent performance over the years. Located in Rexford, Bowman Orchards has been charming families with its apple-picking adventures since 2016. With its picturesque location and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder they have secured second place in the Best Apple Orchard category for seven years, and third place in 2017.
Capturing third place in the Best Apple Orchard category for 2023 is Golden Harvest Farms, located in Valatie. This orchard has been a frequent contender in our poll, consistently impressing visitors with its apple varieties and picturesque surroundings. Golden Harvest Farms has been the runner-up in 2021, 2018, 2017, and 2016, and secured third place in 2022, 2020, and 2019.
Windy Hill Orchard East, located in Castleton, and Samascott Orchards in Kinderhook both proudly occupy the runner-up position in the Best Apple Orchard category for 2023. Windy Hill Orchard East has not only captivated visitors with its scenic beauty but has also been a strong contender in our poll for three consecutive years, securing the runner-up position in 2023, 2022, and 2021. Samascott Orchards, with its picturesque apple orchards in Kinderhook, claims the runner-up position in 2023.
Lakeside Farms, nestled in Ballston Lake, deserves recognition as the runner-up in the Best Apple Orchard category for 2022 and 2020. With its idyllic setting, Lakeside Farms has captivated visitors with its apple-picking experience.
Altamont Orchards, located in Altamont, has consistently impressed visitors, securing the runner-up position in the Best Apple Orchard category for six consecutive years, from 2016 to 2021.
Rounding out our list of winners is Saratoga Apple Orchard & Farm Stand in Schuylerville, which earned the runner-up position in 2019, offering visitors a delightful apple-picking experience.
These remarkable orchards offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the autumn spirit, savoring the flavors of the season and creating cherished memories with your loved ones.
Please note that there were 13 new categories introduced for the 2023 edition of Best of the Capital Region, highlighting the ever-evolving nature of this prestigious award. We invite you to explore the winners from our inaugural competition in 1997 and stay updated on the latest developments in the capital region by signing up for our free Best of the Capital Region newsletter.
We would also like to introduce Erica Smith, the managing editor for digital at the Times Union, who brings over 20 years of experience in local news media. She joined the Times Union in March 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic began, and has previously worked in print and digital media across various states. Erica’s passion for journalism and her role as the board chair of the Local Media Foundation truly reflect her commitment to the field. In addition to her professional pursuits, Erica has a unique hobby of collecting typewriters.
So, embrace the beauty of autumn, venture out to these sensational orchards, and discover why they have been crowned the best in the Capital Region.
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