10 Fun Things To Do at Red Apple Farm in Massachusetts

Red Apple Farm owner Al Rose's grandfather studied pomology--the science of fruit growing--and, in 1912, he planted this McIntosh tree, which is unlike any other you'll see. The Sir Isaac Newton Tree is the oldest commercially planted McIntosh apple tree in New England, says Rose, and that likely makes it the oldest in the country. Photos of the farm's founder at work on the property hang in the farm store. Ask an employee to point them out.

In 2012, this sprawling, stalwart, historic tree will be celebrated properly: Red Apple Farm is planning to host a 100th birthday party.

The Johnny Appleseed Tree is also intriguing to see. Through grafts, there are about 60 varieties of applies growing on this single tree.

Ready to plan your own fall outing to Red Apple Farm? Set your GPS for 455 Highland Avenue, Phillipston, Massachusetts. It's 1-1/2 hours from Boston or Hartford, 2-1/2 hours from Albany. While fall is the farm's busiest season, you can also pick your own blueberries in July, pick peaches in August, attend the annual Thanksgiving Harvest Festival in November and shop for holiday gifts during the Country Roads Christmas tour in December.

For up-to-date information on what's picking and the farm's operating schedule, visit the Red Apple Farm Web site or call 978-249-6763 or toll free, 800-628-4851.

As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary food products for the purpose of reviewing the attraction's offerings. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of potential conflicts of interest. Ethics Policy