Mercier Orchards
4.7(9.2K)google
4.4(781)yelp
FamilySeasonalCraftLocal Life
Overview
Mercier Orchards is a historic, family-owned apple orchard nestled beautifully in the scenic mountain town of Blue Ridge, Georgia, operating passionately for over seventy years. As one of the largest apple orchards in the Southern United States, it allows visitors to participate in seasonal pick-your-own fruit experiences, ranging from strawberries and blueberries to crisp autumn apples. The bustling bakery on-site is legendary for its fresh fried pies, homemade apple cider, and artisan hard ciders.
Practical Info
Mon9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tue9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wed9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thu9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fri9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sun9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Suggested Duration2-3 hours
Best TimeThe peak autumn months from mid-August through October represent the absolute zenith of this historic estate during the heavy apple picking harvest seasons. Target weekend mornings between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM; you can beat the thick midday tourist rush while strolling through the vast hillside orchards under cool mountain breezes. Follow your picking session with a seat on the wooden terrace to enjoy their globally famous fried apple pies and crisp, ice-cold hard cider under high midday sun.
Getting ThereNestled in the scenic mountain ring of Blue Ridge at 8660 Blue Ridge Drive. Located in a rural agrarian zone, public transit is non-existent, making personal vehicle travel highly recommended. From downtown Atlanta, take I-575 North, which automatically transitions into the GA-515 North mountain expressway; cruise straight for nearly 90 miles, and the sweeping orchard estate with its prominent red apple marquee and expansive free gravel lots will appear on your left.
Travel Tips
- While the central bakery and market run year-round, signature orchard U-Pick events operate exclusively on select weekends during specific harvest windows (August-October for apples); weekday walk-ups are strictly barred from groves.
- Orchard topography features loose, uneven topsoil that becomes muddy after rain, while fallen fruit attracts high concentrations of honeybees and wasps; closed-toe sneakers are mandatory, and allergy sufferers must pack an EpiPen.
- Weekend visitor volume causes major northbound vehicular backups on GA-5 between 13:00 and 16:00; intercept the location at 09:00 sharp to avoid incoming traffic bottlenecks and score the freshest batches of fried pies.
Reviews
Positive
- The U-Pick apple experience here is amazing; the orchard is massive and clean, and the tractor-pulled wagon rides to the trees keep children incredibly excited.
- The bakery is an absolute must-visit; the freshly baked fried apple pies and craft hard cider are delicious, and we always pack a lot to take home.
- The staff is incredibly warm and welcoming; despite the massive weekend crowds, the checkout lines move fast, and the tasting areas are well-guided.
- Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge region with stunning mountain views, it's a perfect destination for family road trips and fall foliage viewing.
Heads up
- During peak fall weekends, the crowds are stifling; the bakery and gift shop get packed, and waiting for signature apple pies often takes over half an hour.
- The commercialization is a bit heavy; prices in the market are noticeably higher than regular grocery stores, showing significant tourist premiums.
- It is practically impossible to reach without a car, and the rural roads leading to the orchard get heavily congested in season, making parking a nightmare.
- The U-Pick events are highly seasonal and weather-dependent; missing the peak weeks leaves very few varieties to pick, so you must call ahead to confirm.