One of autumn's favorite pastimes is the organic, earthy experience of apple picking. College students should consider a refreshing, scenic walk while picking fruits from nearby orchard promenades, all within a half hour's drive from UB, with plenty to offer.
"It sounds like a good time with friends," said Robert Mora, a sophomore business major. "College students go to parties and movies all the time, but how often do you get the chance to have a unique experience like apple picking?"
Not only do farms grow various types of apples for picking, usually at least three to four varieties, but also different types of fruit such as pears, grapes, elderberries and peaches.
A major benefit of picking your own fruit is paying a lower price than supermarkets and grocery stores charge. Farms do not charge customers for visiting, but by the amount of fruits they pick, as well as the price of other things that the farm is selling.
"I think it would be fun," said Hyun Ha, a sophomore pharmacy major. "I also know it's a lot cheaper to buy apples by the pound."
Making good use of everything grown on the land, most farms make their own fresh-pressed apple cider. Farmers also typically have shops where they sell more goods such as applesauce, fruit butters, honey, homemade chili sauce and pie fillings.
Another feature of most farms is pumpkin and squash patches, where patrons can either pick or buy their own.
At the Blackman Homestead Farm, located in Lockport, aside from picking pumpkins and fruits, patrons can embark on hayrides. Farms that do offer this activity usually take passengers for a scenic tour of the calm and tranquil countryside.
"I don't think college students have much time to do anything but work," said Kelvin Custodio, a sophomore business and communication major. "But if you have time, apple picking sounds like a very quick, relaxing getaway."
A small side attraction that a surprising number of farms offer are petting zoos. Animals commonly found in these petting zoos are goats, sheep and turkeys.
Becker Farms, located in Gasport, also offer some additional features that most farms do not. Aside from a petting zoo, they have pony rides and wine tasting.
Since most farms are fairly small in size, the ideal amount of visitors per group should be 10 or less.
"We are a very friendly, down-to-earth, homestead farm," said Mary Zeller, a member of the sixth generation to tend to the Blackman Homestead Farm. "We try not to get too commercial."
Farms raise and sell grain-fed turkeys, some of which are raised organically and sold throughout October to November.
After midterms, college students may find the change of scenery very rejuvenating. Whether you go for the apple picking or just to take a free hayride with some friends, there are more than enough farms surrounding the university that provide what you are looking for. However, they tend to slow down after thanksgiving.
To find a farm for an outing, visit www.allaboutapples.com to access information about locations and current festivities.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
