Apple and pumpkin picking in modern times typically includes bounce houses, petting zoos, and many other distractions. But Riamede Farm in Chester offers a peaceful, old-time apple orchard with a pumpkin field out back. This simple and authentic farm provides classic pick-your-own opportunities for many fall harvest crops and produce.
Riamede Farm comprises 68 acres, about 40 acres of which are apple trees dating back to the 1950s. These older acres still nurture apple trees planted by the original apple farmer, Lowry and Ria Mead. “The trees are big and old-fashioned looking, which is unique,” says Ashley O’Keefe. She runs the farm with her husband, Christopher. In fact, Riamede is believed to be New Jersey’s first pick-your-own apple orchard; first opening to the public during the harvest of 1974. However, patrons today can pick not just apples, but pumpkins, tomatoes, sunflowers, winter squash, broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts.
More from Best of NJ
Apple Picking at Riamede Farm
The farm’s expansive orchard features 44 varieties of apples, ranging from traditional classics and heirloom specialties to modern favorites. Of course, apples ripen at different times throughout the fall season. On top of that, Mother Nature changes her apple ripening schedule each year. This means the O’Keefe family is never exactly sure when each variety will be available. However, their telephone message is updated daily with facts about what’s ripe and ready for picking. In addition, their website offers daily reports from the “What’s Ripe?” page.
Their apple flavors run from very sweet (Galas and Ginger Golds) to very tart (Winesaps and Greenings). But Ashley suggests picking something other than the typical go-to options, and potentially finding a new favorite. “We’re focused on teaching about apples and farming, which makes for a great experience for families and kids,” she adds.
Pumpkin Picking on the Farm
At Riamede Farm, most of their pumpkin patch features traditional jack-o’-lantern pumpkins in different shapes and sizes. Early in the pumpkin season, patrons can cut a pumpkin right off the vine. For those who would rather just pick one up, they also offer pre-cut pumpkins of all sizes in their pumpkin meadow. They also offer both pumpkins and gourds for sale in the farm store.
They even grow cheese and sugar pumpkins to cook with, as well as fun artisanal varieties. Anyone visiting the pumpkin patch will also see colorful, decorative mini gourds growing, and can walk through the high corn trail.
Other Treats
Riamede Farm features their own fresh-baked cider donuts, which Ashley says are the best around. Donuts are available in the farm store during the week and at their donut stand on weekends. The farm store also highlights items from local small businesses. Plus, it’s where the O’Keefe family sells unique products from the farm. For example, a local artisan made wooden cheese boards and other products from the pruned branches of their apple trees. They offer apple cider courtesy of Melick’s Town Farm, their friends down the road.
Remember to ask about the farm membership that provides discounts on purchases, access to members-only events, and much more.
Visit Riamede Farm at 122 Oakdale Rd in Chester. (Click here to find them on Google Maps.) To learn more: Click here to visit their website | Follow them on Facebook | Click to give them a call.
Click Here to Find More New Jersey Services.
All Photos: © Riamede Farm