There’s something about an apple orchard in the fall that stirs up nostalgia — that crisp bite in the air, the scent of apples and leaves, and the sound of laughter as families fill their baskets. Just a few miles south of Worthington, Ocheda Orchard offers all of that and more. It’s the kind of place where generations come together each autumn, creating simple, joyful memories that last long after the last leaf has fallen.
The Nystrom family planted their first trees back in 1965, and over the decades, Ocheda Orchard has grown into a local treasure. Today, the orchard spans about 35 acres with more than 5,000 trees and features over 15 apple varieties. From Minnesota favorites like Honeycrisp and Haralson to unique varieties from the Nystroms’ own breeding program, every apple has a story behind it. It’s a family-run operation through and through — the kind of place where you’ll likely be greeted by a familiar face and a friendly smile.
Visitors can choose between pre-picked apples from the farm store or head out for the full experience and pick their own. There’s something undeniably satisfying about reaching up and twisting that perfect apple off the branch — shiny, fresh, and straight from the source. You’ll find varieties like Ace of Hearts, Autumn Crunch, Rosy, and SweeTango, with new options ripening each week. Their “you-pick” experience makes for a perfect weekend outing, especially for families with kids who love the adventure of finding “their” tree.
But Ocheda is about more than apples. Each fall, the orchard bursts with pumpkins, squash, and other seasonal goods, making it easy to decorate the porch or plan a cozy weekend of baking. The farm store offers a charming mix of produce and country character — it’s the kind of stop that feels like home, even if it’s your first visit.
Ocheda Orchard also tells a larger story — one rooted in Minnesota’s apple-growing tradition. The Nystroms’ dedication to developing new varieties and maintaining cold-hardy trees shows a passion for both farming and family heritage. Every apple you pick carries a bit of that legacy, connecting visitors to decades of care, community, and craftsmanship.
If you visit on a weekend in September or October, you’ll likely find the orchard alive with activity — kids racing through rows of trees, parents taking photos, couples sipping cider, and friends filling baskets under golden skies. It’s a small but meaningful ritual that celebrates everything we love about fall in Minnesota.
Plan Your Visit:
📍 29716 Read Ave., Worthington, MN
🕙 Open mid-August through October — Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Sundays 1–5 p.m. (after Labor Day)
🍎 Learn more: ochedaorchard.com
✨ Whether you’re stocking up for baking, looking for a family day out, or simply craving a slice of fall, Ocheda Orchard is one of those places that remind us why we love calling southwest Minnesota home.