A Guide to Oregon’s Best Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
In the fruitful valleys and rolling hills of Oregon, a hardworking community of cider makers and apple growers thrives, calling us to embark on a journey of natural bliss and heartwarming experiences. These cider houses and apple orchards are destinations in their own right, revealing the heart and soul of our beloved state.
1. E.Z. Orchards Farm Market
Located in Salem, known as the ‘Cherry City,’ E.Z. Orchards Farm Market celebrates its agricultural roots with a bounty of apples and a consistent release of hard ciders. In the fall, locals flock here to buy their winter apples. The cider house hosts its famous Cider Fest in October, considered the crown jewel of Salem events. Don’t forget to taste the Hawke’s House cider, a local favorite.2. Portland Cider Company
For visitors seeking Oregon’s urban cider scene, a trip to the Portland Cider Company in Clackamas is an absolute must. Enjoy a wide variety of delicious English-style ciders made with Northwest apples. They even host a community cider program using apples and pears from locals’ backyard trees!
3. Bauman’s Farm and Garden
The apple enthusiasts staying near Gervais can’t miss this family-owned destination. Bauman’s Farm and Garden offers over 20 apple varieties, pumpkins, and other fresh produce. Besides satisfying your apple cravings, take part in their annual harvest festival, attend cider tasting events, and navigate through the corn maze.4. Apple Valley Country Store
Located along the historic Columbia River Highway in Hood River, this country store offers more than 50 varieties of jams made from Oregon-grown berries and apples. Their remarkable apple pies, turnovers, and hand-pressed ciders have gained a much-deserved reputation far and wide. Make sure to try the huckleberry pie – it’s a local delicacy.5. 2 Towns Ciderhouse
At 2 Towns Ciderhouse in Corvallis, they proudly wave the flag for craft cider, blending unexpected ingredients with traditional apple varieties. Their cider collections are wonderfully Oregonian, featuring different flavors from the refreshing Pacific Pineapple to the Dark Currant.6. Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider
This charismatic Portland cider house ships its ciders far and wide, but locals know there’s nothing like tasting straight from the source. Visit a tasting room on the Eastside to try harder-to-find ciders, like their popular Hallelujah Hopricot, directly on tap.7. Bellinger Farms and Gourmet Shoppe
In Hermiston, a trip to Bellinger Farms and Gourmet Shoppe guarantees an exciting adventure in apple picking. Whether you prefer tart Granny Smiths or sweet Red Delicious, they’ve got the apple variety to satisfy your cravings. The farm’s candy apple booth is a hit, offering Bavarian and caramel apple treats.8. Smith Berry Barn
Out in Hillsboro, the Smith Berry Barn tempts apple aficionados and cider enthusiasts alike. The Farmhouse Shop offers local honey, gift items, apple-themed kitchenwares, and, of course, gallons of apple cider. If you time your visit right, the Apple Festival in October is an annual tradition you won’t want to miss.9. Kiyokawa Family Orchards
Nestled in Parkdale near the breathtaking Mt. Hood, Kiyokawa Family Orchards is a paradise of over 120 apple and 24 pear varieties. Tour the farm, pick some crisp apples, and if you’re feeling brave, try the spiced apple cider donuts.10. Rasmussen Farms
Wrap up your apple exploration by heading east to the fruitful Hood River Valley to Rasmussen Farms, known for its ‘U-Pick’ apple orchard and Pumpkin Funland event. Their apple-inspired desserts and cider are rich in Oregon flavor, making this a perfect stop as fall sets in.Your exploration around Oregon’s finest cider houses and apple orchards will indulge your senses in the best of our state’s age-old traditions. With every sip of rustic cider and bite of a crunchy apple, you’ll find yourself falling in love with Oregon all over again.