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Peach picking is a short but very fun season in Wisconsin, and Apple Holler in Sturtevant is one of the only places in the state where families can walk the orchard and pick ripe peaches straight from the trees.
After several years of weather-related setbacks, peach crops have returned in recent seasons, making Apple Holler a go-to spot for peach picking near Milwaukee and throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
How Peach Picking Works at Apple Holler
Every individual entering the orchard—kids and adults—must purchase a ¼-peck bag (3–4 lbs of peaches). This bag serves as your admission into the orchard and includes:
- A nature walk through the rolling hills of Apple Holler’s 80-acre orchard and hardwood forest
- Access to the rows currently open for picking
- A designated picking bag for each person
The last picking bag is sold at 3:00 p.m., and picking is while supplies last. Visitors must keep their receipt and show it when exiting the orchard. Peach picking bags are non-refundable.
Because the season is short and weather-dependent, Apple Holler encourages families to check their website, social media, or call 262-884-7100 for real-time updates on availability.
Peach Varieties Grown at Apple Holler
Apple Holler grows nine peach varieties suited to Wisconsin’s climate. Ripening times vary from early to late July, depending on weather.
Early to Mid-July
- Flaming Fury (Clingstone) – Mostly red skin, sweet and juicy, non-browning
- Sentry (Semi-Freestone) – Large, firm, sweet yellow flesh
- Desiree (Semi-Freestone) – Medium-sized, crimson red, firm yellow flesh
Mid to Late July
- Harrow Diamond (Freestone) – Sweet, non-browning, great for eating fresh or canning
- Bright Star (Semi-Freestone) – Excellent color and flavor, minimal split pits
- Early Star (Semi-Freestone) – Medium size, firm and flavorful
Late July
- Red Haven (Freestone) – A popular all-purpose peach with great shelf life
- Eight Ball (Freestone) – Large, highly colored, almost completely red
- GlenGlo (Semi-Freestone) – Large, firm, freestone when tree-ripened
Families can check Apple Holler’s Picking Calendar for the day’s varieties and availability.
Tips for Visiting With Kids
- Arrive early on weekends—peaches ripen fast and supplies can be limited.
- Bring sunscreen and water; some rows have limited shade.
- Orchard paths can be uneven, so closed-toe shoes help.
- Expect screening of backpacks, strollers, and extra bags at checkout to ensure all peaches are paid for.
What Else to Do at Apple Holler
Your peach-picking bag also includes access to Apple Holler’s Family Fun Park, which typically features:
- Farm-themed play areas
- Photo opportunities
- Hands-on activities
Plus, the Farm Store offers:
- Peach hard cider
- Homemade pies
- Jams, sauces, and baked goods
Planning for Future Seasons
Apple Holler continues expanding its stone-fruit offerings and is planting nectarines and plums for future years.
Looking Ahead
Apple Holler is also planting nectarines and plums for future seasons, so the orchard’s stone-fruit offerings will continue to grow over time.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
