The Perfect Fall Day Trip From NYC: Angry Orchard

Fall in New York is the perfect time for a day trip upstate! As a cider lover, I’ve been dying to visit Angry Orchard, and after drinking their ciders for over five years, I was thrilled to find out they’re just a two-hour car ride from the city.

Day trips in the fall are my favorite because you get to escape the city, take in the stunning fall foliage, and explore charming towns along the way. My trip to Angry Orchard was definitely one to remember, and I’m already planning my next visit!

If you’re thinking about visiting Angry Orchard, this guide has everything you need to know before you go.

Day Trip to Angry Orchard from NYC

There are a few ways to get to Angry Orchard from the city, depending on how you prefer to travel. Driving is the easiest option if you’ve got a car or can rent one. It’s about a 2-hour trip from NYC, and you’ll get to enjoy some gorgeous Hudson Valley views along the way!

Plus, it gives you the freedom to make any fun pit stops—like grabbing coffee at a cute roadside café or snapping a few pics of the scenic mountains and river. We stopped in a cute city called Newburgh, about 30 minutes from the Orchard, and went to The Wherehouse. They’re a great bar and restaurant with vegan options! I highly recommend their vegan wings.

No car? No worries! You can take the Metro-North train from Grand Central to Beacon, and from there, grab a quick Uber or Lyft to the orchard. The train ride is around an hour and a half, with some stunning views of the Hudson River that make the trip feel even more relaxing. Just make sure to check the train schedule ahead of time, so you don’t end up waiting too long for your ride back to the city.

No matter how you decide to go, the journey is pretty smooth, and you’ll be sipping cider before you know it!

The Tour & Tasting Experience

There are tons of cider tastings to experience at Angry Orchard! We did the Treehouse Tasting Experience. It lasted around 30 minutes, and we got to learn about the history of Angry Orchard and try two different ciders in their treehouse. We did the 5 p.m. tour, which was perfect, and had a panoramic view of their orchard and the Shawangunk Mountain Range.

They also have an Orchard Walking Tour, a Production Tour and Tasting, and the Barrel Room Premium Tasting Experience. To learn more about their tours and to get your tickets ahead of time, check out their website. Try to show up early, so you don’t miss anything!

Food at Angry Orchard

Angry Orchard has plenty of food options! Since I’m vegan, I made sure to eat beforehand, but I noticed a couple of food trucks on-site. One was serving up Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos, and nachos—definitely smelled amazing! They also have their own food truck with options like pizzas, pretzels, salads, grilled cheese, and soup. The real star of the show was their apple cider donuts. Seriously, don’t skip them!

For seating, there is a designated area, but it can fill up fast, especially on weekends and peak hours. They do allow you to bring your own chairs and blankets to create your own picnic spot.

Activities Beyond Cider Tasting

There’s more than just cider tasting at Angry Orchard! They’ve got corn hole, which is free to play, and live music most nights from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. EST. We got there around 5 p.m., and after our tour, we grabbed a flight of ciders and enjoyed the music—it was the perfect fall activitiy. The flight was four ciders for $17, and honestly, every one was delicious. Our favorites were definitely the Blueberry Cider and the Apple Pie Cider!

They also have seasonal events and trivia nights, to check out more of their events check their website.

Day Trip To Angry Orchard: FAQs

How do I get to Angry Orchard from NYC without a car?

You can hop on the Metro-North train from Grand Central to Beacon, which takes about an hour and a half. From there, it’s just a 30-minute Uber or Lyft ride to Angry Orchard. For the bus, you can check out the ShortLine bus from Port Authority, which also takes you up to Newburgh, then you can grab a taxi or Uber. Either way, you’ll get some beautiful views along the way, and it’s super easy to grab a taxi/Uber once you get off.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Yes, we got our tickets in advance for the Treehouse Tasting! I would highly recommend buying them beforehand, especially during the busier months (summer & fall). Angry Orchard can get pretty busy, especially on weekends and during peak season, so locking in your spot ahead of time ensures you don’t miss out. You can reserve your tickets right on their website—super simple!

Is Angry Orchard Open Year Round?

Yes! They’re open year-round, except for New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Their hours are:

Monday: 12p – 8pm
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday – Thursday: 2p – 8pm
Friday: 12p – 8p
Saturday – Sunday: 10a – 8pm

What’s the best time of year to visit Angry Orchard?

Each season offers something unique at Angry Orchard, but fall is definitely a fan favorite. The foliage is stunning! Summer is also a great option if you want to catch some outdoor events or just enjoy the sunny weather. Winter can be quieter, but if you’re looking for a cozy vibe, it’s perfect for a more relaxed visit.

Can kids come along on the trip?

Yep! Angry Orchard is family-friendly. While the cider tasting is obviously for adults, there’s plenty of open space for kids to run around, and they offer non-alcoholic options, too.

How long does the cider tasting take?

The cider tasting usually lasts about 30-45 minutes. If you’re doing the full tour of the orchard as well, plan for about an hour or so for the whole experience.

Is Angry Orchard pet-friendly?

Good news for dog lovers—Angry Orchard is pet-friendly! You can bring your dog, but just keep them on a leash. There’s plenty of outdoor space for them to roam, and it’s a great spot for them to enjoy a day out.

What should I wear for a visit to Angry Orchard?

Comfort is key! You’ll be walking around the orchard, so I’d suggest wearing comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the grounds (which you should!). Depending on the season, layers are a good idea. And don’t forget sunscreen if you’re going during the sunny months!

Final Thoughts on Your Angry Orchard Day Trip

If you’re a cider lover or just looking for a fun fall activity outside the city, a day trip to Angry Orchard is a must. From the beautiful scenery to the delicious ciders (seriously, don’t skip the Apple Pie Cider!), it’s the perfect escape from NYC.

Whether you’re going for the tasting, the tours, or just to relax with some live music and great food, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with plenty of activities, seasonal events, and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a trip worth adding to your fall bucket list.

So grab your friends, pack up some cozy layers, and head upstate for a memorable day of cider and stunning fall views. Trust me, you’ll be planning your next trip back before you even leave!

Let me know in the comments your experience at Angry Orchard!

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