ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - Need to get outside with the family or friends this weekend? One of the most popular summer/fall attractions in the greater St. Louis area is beginning this weekend – apple picking at Eckert's orchards.
Traditionally, the busiest season for Eckert’s, the first opportunity to pick apples will take place the week of August 22 at the Belleville and Grafton farms with social distancing guidelines in place.
Reservations will be required for all guests. You can purchase a time slot in advance online here for the Belleville farm, here for the Grafton farm and here for the Millstadt farm. Reservations are currently open through the end of October. The cost varies by location, but children under 2 years old are always free.
Guests are asked to wear masks on the wagon and in the fields and be extremely mindful of social distancing from others. Handwashing stations will be provided for guests to wash their hands before entering the fields. All Eckert’s staff will be wearing masks as well as following additional CDC recommendations.
Eckert's does warn that prices may change as well as additional social distancing practices required.
The Belleville and Grafton farms will be the first to open for apple season with fresh Gala apples for picking, beginning this Saturday. The Millstadt farm will open on Wednesday, Sept. 2 with Jonathan apples.
“Although the pick-your-own experience looks different this year, we’ve been able to safely and successfully host families at the farm all summer for blackberry and peach picking. Apple season has been an important part of our farm for more than 100 years now so we’re grateful to be able to welcome guests back to the farm to create new fall memories,” says Vice President of Retail Operations Angie Eckert.
Visit Eckert’s website here for more information.