Eckert's Farm is a pick-your-own orchard in the Midwest with multiple locations

Eckert's Farm operates several pick-your-own orchards across Illinois and Missouri where you can harvest your own apples and other fruit directly from the trees. The farm has been family-owned since 1910 and runs seasonal operations at different locations — the main farm is in Belleville, Illinois, with additional orchards in other towns. Each location opens during harvest season, typically from late summer through fall, though exact dates shift year to year based on when fruit ripens.

The farm charges per pound for what you pick, and you bring your own containers or rent baskets on-site. Beyond picking, Eckert's operates a farm store, cider mill, and restaurant at some locations, so you can buy pre-picked fruit, cider, baked goods, and prepared food without doing the picking yourself. The experience is designed for families and groups, and the farm provides picking instructions when you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Eckert's Farm has multiple locations in Illinois and Missouri, each with its own opening and closing dates based on harvest timing.
  • You pay by the pound for fruit you pick yourself, and you can bring your own containers or rent baskets at the farm.
  • The farm also sells pre-picked fruit, fresh cider, and food at its on-site store and restaurant if you prefer not to pick.
  • Harvest season runs from late summer through fall, but the exact weeks vary each year depending on weather and ripeness.
  • Eckert's is designed as a family activity, and staff provide guidance on how to pick fruit properly when you arrive.

How picking and payment work at Eckert's

When you arrive at Eckert's, you either bring your own containers (buckets, bags, baskets) or rent one from the farm. The farm provides picking bags or baskets for a rental fee if you don't have your own. You then walk into the orchard, pick the fruit you want, and bring your full container to the checkout area where staff weigh it and charge you by the pound.

Prices per pound vary by fruit type and change from year to year. Apples are typically the main crop, but Eckert's also grows peaches, pears, and other seasonal fruit depending on the location and time of year. You pay only for what you pick — there is no entry fee or minimum purchase. The farm accepts cash and card payments at checkout.

What to bring and how to prepare

Wear comfortable shoes with good grip because you will be walking on uneven ground and possibly climbing small ladders to reach fruit higher on the trees. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially if you are visiting on a warm day. Dress in layers because mornings and evenings can be cool even during harvest season.

If you have your own picking containers, bring them — this saves the rental fee. If you don't, the farm rents baskets and bags on-site. Bring cash or a card for payment. Some locations have restrooms and picnic areas, but it is worth checking the specific location's website or calling ahead to confirm what facilities are available.

Finding the right location and checking harvest dates

Eckert's operates orchards in Belleville, Illinois (the original and largest location), and additional farms in other Illinois and Missouri towns. Each location has its own harvest schedule because fruit ripens at different times depending on the specific orchard and weather that year. The main Belleville farm typically opens in late August or early September for apples and runs through October or November, but exact dates shift annually.

Before you visit, check Eckert's website or call the specific location directly to confirm it is open and what fruit is currently ready to pick. Some locations may have limited hours or close on certain days. The farm's website lists all locations, phone numbers, and usually posts updates about what is in season and when picking started that year.

The farm store, cider mill, and restaurant

Beyond the pick-your-own orchard, Eckert's operates a farm store at most locations where you can buy pre-picked apples, peaches, pears, and other produce without doing the picking yourself. The store also sells fresh cider, apple cider donuts, pies, jams, and other farm-made products. Prices for pre-picked fruit are higher than the per-pound picking rate because the farm has already harvested and sorted it.

Some Eckert's locations have a cider mill where you can watch cider being pressed or buy fresh cider by the gallon. Several locations also have a restaurant or snack bar serving sandwiches, soups, and seasonal items. These services are available year-round or during extended seasons at some farms, even when the pick-your-own orchard is closed.

Group visits and special events

Eckert's welcomes groups and school trips, and some locations offer group rates or special group picking times. If you are planning to bring a large group, call ahead to arrange a time that works for the farm's schedule. The farm can sometimes accommodate groups during off-peak hours to avoid crowding.

Eckert's also hosts seasonal events and activities at various locations, such as hayrides, pumpkin patches in fall, and holiday celebrations. These events and their dates vary by location and year, so check the farm's website or call to see what is happening during your planned visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't want to pick fruit myself?

You can buy pre-picked fruit at the farm store, which is open during and sometimes beyond picking season. The store sells apples, peaches, pears, cider, baked goods, and other products. You pay more per pound than you would for picking yourself, but you get fruit that is already harvested and sorted.

Can I bring my kids to pick?

Yes, Eckert's is designed as a family activity. Children can pick fruit with adult supervision. The farm provides picking bags and baskets, and staff give instructions on how to pick properly. Younger children may need help reaching higher fruit or climbing ladders, so plan accordingly.

What happens if I visit and the orchard is closed?

Harvest dates shift each year based on weather and ripeness, so it is important to call or check the website before you go. If the orchard is closed, the farm store may still be open, and you can buy pre-picked fruit there. Some locations stay open for the store and restaurant even when picking has ended.

Is there a minimum amount I have to pick?

No, there is no minimum purchase or entry fee. You pay only for the fruit you pick, by the pound. If you pick just a few pounds, you pay for just those few pounds.

Can I bring my own containers, or do I have to rent?

You can bring your own containers and save the rental fee. If you don't have containers, the farm rents baskets and bags on-site for a small fee. Containers should be sturdy enough to hold fruit without crushing it as you pick.