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Quick Info
- Address: 5454 County Road Q, Colgate, WI 53017
- Website: Peck & Bushel Organic Fruit Co.
- Season: Late August – October (varieties ripen weekly)
- Apple Varieties: 30+ organic varieties, including Honeycrisp, Cortland, McIntosh, Gala, and more
Why Families Love It
Every fall, our family heads to Peck & Bushel in Colgate, and it’s easily become our favorite apple-picking tradition. Plus, it’s the largest certified organic apple orchard in the Upper Midwest, with more than 40,000 trees.
There’s something extra special about knowing the apples are organic, and with so many varieties, we love trying something new each visit. Whether crisp and sweet or tangy and tart, there’s always a surprise waiting.
What’s New in 2025
Peck & Bushel is always growing, and this year’s updates make it even more family-friendly:
- New organic apple varieties debuting this season.
- Expanded bakery menu: apple spice cake, cream puff cider doughnuts, salted caramel cookies, and new sticky bread flavors like strawberry rhubarb.
- Organic Cider Chills — apple cider slushies, plain or gourmet with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
- Gourmet caramel apples, including “Dubai Chocolate Caramel Apples.”
- Cidery lunches: pressed sandwiches, wraps, salads, charcuterie boards, plus pre-packaged side items.
- Redesigned retail barn layout (you can even watch caramel apples being made fresh).
- Reservable birthday party area for families.
Things to Do
- Apple Picking: Choose from more than 30 organic varieties. Bags are sold at the barn; check their weekly ripening schedule.
- Bakery Favorites: Don’t miss the famous apple cider doughnuts (our family never leaves without a box), plus seasonal pies, breads, and now slushies.
- Family Fun: Yard games, picnic tables, and space to relax after picking.
- Nature Trail & Instagram Spots: Walk through the landscaped trails with benches, swings, sunflower patches, and colorful pollinator plantings.
- Modern Barn Market: A rustic-chic space with home goods, fresh cider, and treats to bring home.
Pro Tips for Families
- Arrive early. This is a popular orchard, and weekends get busy quickly. We always go right at opening for a calmer, more peaceful experience.
- Parking fills fast. Early arrival means easier parking and more relaxed picking.
- Plan to indulge. Between doughnuts, cider, and new gourmet treats, it’s easy to leave with a full bag and full belly.
- Bring a camera. The landscaped trails, flowers, and barn make perfect backdrops for fall family photos.
Photo Gallery
Final Thoughts
For our family, Peck & Bushel is more than just an apple orchard, it’s a fall tradition. From organic apples and gourmet bakery treats to peaceful trails and picture-perfect scenery, every visit feels like stepping into a postcard and returning to see old friends!
If you’re looking for an orchard that’s both organic and family-friendly, with plenty of charm and modern touches, this is the one to put on your list. Just don’t leave without grabbing those cider doughnuts!
Looking for more options? See our complete Apple Picking Near Milwaukee Guide.
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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.
