Visiting Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, Connecticut

Lyman Orchards in Middlefield is such a fun destination for families. Middlefield is centrally located, so families from Hartford, New Haven, and all over Connecticut can put visiting Lyman Orchards on the must-do list. Lyman Orchards has events and attractions that run all year long. The Sunflower Maze is an annual summer tradition, as is Brunch with Santa every December.

Lyman orchards has a variety of pick-your-own fruit, and even celebrates strawberry and blueberry seasons with special festivals. Other celebrations mark Mothers Day and Fathers Day, and the warmer months bring outdoor family activities, such as live music or outdoor movie nights.

But New England is definitely known for autumn fun, and Lyman Orchards shines every Fall!

Visiting Lyman Orchards - Apple Picking and More

The orchards feature a dozen varieties of apples available from mid-August to late October. The 100+ acres are home not only to one of the best selections of pick-your-own fruit in the state, but also many festivals and events that take place year-round. On weekends and holidays, you can also enjoy pony rides and horse-drawn wagon rides. 

In the fall, the trees at Lyman Orchards brim with a dozen delicious varieties of apples. 

Visiting Lyman Orchards - Corn Maze

Every Year, one of the signature attractions opens with the Corn Maze and Cider Donut Festival at Lyman Orchards. Not only is Lyman a fun destination, but a charitable one. Every corn maze admission ticket yields a $1 donation to the American Cancer Society. In 25 seasons, a seemingly small token has resulted in $765,000 donated to the American Cancer Society. In addition, $.50 off each admission is donated to the Connecticut Cancer Society to help people closer to home. So as you navigate your way through mazes, satisfy your taste buds with delicious baked goods, or pick fruit from its source, feel good knowing you’re making a difference in the lives of others. 

Navigating the corn maze at Lyman Orchards is one of the fun activities for Connecticut families.

One of its most popular attractions, is the corn maze, open from early September until early November. This year's theme is Peanuts, celebrating 75 years of beloved characters like Snoopy and Charlie Brown. The maze offers 4 acres of towering corn, one mile of pathways, and fun trivia questions that help wanderers navigate each twist and turn. Admission is $11 per adult, $6 for children ages 4-12, and free for those 3 and younger. 

Visiting Lyman Orchards - Dining and Food

Lyman Orchard's Apple Barrel, open daily, is renowned for its fresh menu. Enjoy lunch inside the store (the Macintosh sandwich is my favorite, and my kids are always gaga about the gooey mac and cheese), or relax on the patio, under the shade of willow trees, and savor each bite as you watch children delightfully feeding the pond’s resident geese. The 1741 Pub offers diners a broad menu with delicious favorites, with adult beverages available.

The dessert selection at the Apple Barrel is impressive, featuring a variety of baked goods.

Do not even think of leaving without stopping by the bakery. Sticky fingers and chocolate-decorated lips are a must. If nothing tempts you from the display window (I envy you!), be sure to take home a pie; the apple pie is so scrumptious (don’t tell grandma!), it has been repeatedly voted the best farm/orchard pie by such prestigious publications as Connecticut Magazine. 

Photo Credit: All Photos Courtesy of Lyman Orchards.

Originally published 8.27.2016