The key to saving money while you enjoy a fabulous fall getaway is to visit places that allow you to get the most bang for your buck.
For example, if you are planning to take a road trip to pick pumpkins or apples this autumn consider visiting a larger all-inclusive establishment. Some orchards and farms offer you the chance to not only pick your own produce, but also provide hayrides, food samples and access to petting zoos (complete with pigs, chicks, rabbits, sheep, cows, and more) minus the extra charge.
Mackey’s Orchard in Belvidere, New Jersey, offers customers a 20-minute hayride with scenic views to the apple picking area, which features 100 varieties of apples ranging from traditional classics to heirloom specialties to modern favorites. Visitors also score free admission to a children’s playground and the opportunity to dine on-site. In addition to Mackey’s mile-high pie (which weighs in at more than 6 pounds) you can also purchase reasonably priced apple donuts and dumplings, while enjoying free samples of fresh apple cider.
If you are traveling with young children, look for farms that accommodate their age and size. Select orchards cater to its smallest visitors by offering dwarf trees that grow low to the ground, making picking easier for kids. If you are going to pay for the u-pick experience, you want to stretch your dollar as far as it can go. You don’t want to make the trip and end up spending the majority of the day dealing with crying children who are frustrated because they can’t reach apples hanging from tall branches. Also, look for farms that have play areas, sandboxes or other kid-friendly activities, so you can make an entire day of your fall road trip. To reduce costs even more, consider packing a picnic lunch and visiting a farm that features tables, chairs, benches or grassy areas where you can spread out and enjoy your homemade meal.
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