Apple picking near Toronto is a fall ritual that makes for a great excuse to get out of the city. Inhale some crisp, fresh air while picking fruit that just tastes better because you plucked it from the branch with your own two hands.

Here are some places to go apple picking near Toronto.

Chudleigh's

This is more than an orchard, it's a rite of passage. This hit with kids in Halton Hills was first opened to the public in 1967, and now they grow dozens of varieties of apples to pick in their orchard. Tickets here must be purchased in advance before visiting. 

Pingle's Farm Market

In operation for over 30 years, you can pick apples at this Hampton farm, and pick up some fall raspberries and pumpkins while you’re at it. Purchase a ticket for a specifc timeslot before you visit. 

Big'r Apple Farm

About half an hour away from Toronto, this Brampton farm lets you pick Jona Gold, Fortune, Cortland, Wealthy, Royal Gala and Empire apples among other varieties, and they also grow vegetables.

Pine Farms Orchard

There are 21 varieties of apples to pick right off trees that are specially kid-sized at this farm, including Ida Reds, Melbas, Spartans, Empires and Russetts. Admission to the orchard in King, Ontario for pick your own is $5 per person.

JC Agri Orchards

This King City farm in operation for over 40 years allows you to pick your own apples and they also does wagon rides. They do not charge admission to enter. 

Albion Orchards

Apple picking typically goes on from around August until October at this orchard in Caledon where trees range in age from two to 40 years old.

Archibald's Orchard & Estate Winery

Pick apples until mid-October at this Bowmanville winery that has let people do so since 1983. They're open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Carl Laidlaw Orchards

This cute low-key orchard allows you pick your own Granny Smith, Smoothie, Tolman Sweet and Rhode Island Greening apples. They're only open on weekends and holiday Mondays.

Brooks Farms

During the month of September pick your own Ida Red, Macintosh, Golden Delicious and Royal Gala apples at this Mount Albert. Each person picking in your group is required to purchase a basket. 

Dixie Orchards

This Caledon farm has 20 varieties of farm-fresh apples. You can also shop for cider, pies and caramel apples at the farm bakery or get lost in the corn maze. There's a $3 entrance fees and you can pre-purchase bags starting at $20 for 10 lbs. Book your visiting time in advance.