Fall in Northern Virginia is one of the most beautiful times of the year. The trees slowly shift from green to brilliant hues of red and yellow. As the leaves begin to fall, you can see their stunning colors being carried through the crisp autumn air. Fall weather means cozy sweaters, bonfires, and warm drinks. The changing of the season also brings in a favorite autumn activity: apple picking! When you stay at The Inn at Vaucluse Spring, take a trip to the Rinker Orchards. This quaint farm is just 10 minutes away from the inn, making it the perfect way to spend a few hours of your day!
If you’re planning a trip to Northern Virginia, take advantage of our free Vacation Guide. Planning a vacation can be hard, so we’ve narrowed down our favorite things to do in the area to save you from hours of research. Skip the tedious part of preparations and use our guide to find everything from the best fine dining restaurants in town to fun activities like visiting Rinker Orchards.
Rinker Orchards History
Not much has changed at Rinker Orchards since the Rinker family purchased it in 1940! This farm has now been owned by 3 generations of Rinkers, and they plan on keeping it in the family. Originally, the farm was dedicated to growing crops, the orchard, and a variety of animals. After the decision was reached to sell the animals, the orchard portion was expanded. In 1973, the family was one of the first in Virginia to offer guests the option of picking their own apples. Since then, visitors have traveled for miles for the opportunity to go pick their own tasty treats!
Picking Your Own Apples at Rinker Orchards
Enjoy the fresh country air at Rinker Orchards. Surround yourself with the towering trees as you breathe in the sweet perfume of ripe apples. An assortment of apple varieties are available for picking. If you are unsure of which varieties to choose, the helpful staff will give you information and even let you try different types. Choose which types of apples to pick, then make your way to the accessible trees. The best part about apple picking is taking a bite of the fruit so fresh that it had been on the tree just moments ago!
After Picking Apples at Rinker Orchards
Not only is Rinker Orchards a prime spot for apple picking, it offers much more. Don’t leave without trying their fresh apple cider. They use a secret blend of apples to create an amazing flavor without adding any sugar or preservatives! We recommend spending some time picking apples, visiting their small store, then settling down for a calming picnic with views of the orchard. Let The Inn at Vaucluse Spring pack you a picnic to take with you. Then, make it complete with your fresh apples, a glass of Rinker Orchards’ famous cider, and homemade dumplings for dessert!
The Best Place to Stay in Northern Virginia
The Inn at Vaucluse Spring is the perfect country escape in Northern Virginia. Our expansive property is an oasis in the Shenandoah Valley, yet minutes away from many restaurants and attractions like Rinker Orchards. Choose from a wide variety of accommodations in our Virginia inn, from the elegance of the historic Manor House to the privacy of three individual cottages. Let your cares melt away in one of our spacious guest rooms, and indulge your senses with Jacuzzis, fireplaces, and fabulous views. Book your Northern Virginia getaway today!