As we anticipate fall's arrival, Philly families look forward to the changing colors of the leaves, harvest festivals, and apple-picking season. Pennsylvania is one of the country's top apple-producing states, and we are fortunate to have a number of orchards in the Philadelphia area where families can enjoy this tradition. Many orchards host activities to extend the fun beyond apple picking: everything from tractor rides and corn mazes to moon bounces and festivals.

The pick-your-own apple orchards and farms listed below are within an hour or so of Philadelphia. Because farm conditions and apple selections vary, it is recommended to call or check websites before visiting. For more ways to spend a fall day, follow our Fall Activities Guide for Philadelphia Kids for the latest on where to hike, pick pumpkins, or enjoy corn mazes and hayrides.

A trip to an orchard for apple picking near Chicago will give your family some fresh air (and other perks) this fall season. Families willing to take a one- or two-hour drive can enjoy country life for a day, with hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, and apple picking near Chicago. Some orchards even offer pumpkin picking and other fruits throughout the season! 

Fall harvest season is already in full swing at several orchards throughout Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, so check out this list of the best apple orchards near Chicago. Kids can pick apples and play farmer for a day—all without breaking the bank account.

For other fun family trips near Chicago, try these Day Trips Near Chicago or Family-Friendly Weekend Getaways. For more fun things to do near Chicago this season, check out our Fall Fun Guide.

A fun and very pink café and skating experience open through October.

Atlanta apple picking checks every box for an enjoyable fall outing—get close to Mother Nature, let children frolic in an apple orchard, take home delicious apples, and enjoy autumn weather. Besides the actual apple picking, many Atlanta apple orchards and apple u-picks feature attractions for families.

Apple picking near Atlanta may include hay rides, petting zoos, and of course, filling one's face with as many apple-related baked goods as possible from the on-site bakery. There are no rotten apples in this bunch of wonderful Atlanta orchards!

If you're on the hunt for an unforgettable family vacation, look no further than the all-inclusive Barcelo Maya Grand Resort. Located along the stunning Riviera Maya coastline in Mexico, this all-inclusive resort is packed with fun and relaxation for everyone. My family recently stayed there, and we can’t stop talking about how amazing it was.

The Barcelo Maya Grand Resort has fantastic family-friendly accommodations. The rooms and suites are spacious, often with separate areas for kids and adults, so everyone can spread out. Plus, with the all-inclusive package, you get unlimited access to dining, refreshing drinks, and tons of activities without worrying about extra costs.

Read on for all the details about the Barcelo Maya Grand Resort and why it's the perfect all-inclusive resort for families. Then use our Mexico Family Travel Guide, including our list of things to do in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya with kids, to plan the perfect family vacation in Mexico.

The days are long but the years are short before they start kindergarten.

From roller coasters to the Cat in the Hat, find family fun in Springfield!

Finding the right ear piercing shop in Atlanta for kids and teens requires a bit of research. Parents should focus on specific details: hygienics, cost, type and availability of jewelry/earrings, preferred piercing form (needle vs. "gun"), family-friendly atmosphere, professionalism, and minimum age. Read on about the best places for kids to get ear piercings in Atlanta, taking into account the aforementioned details, so parents and children can feel confident they're in the best hands.