If you’re searching for a family-friendly farm near Pittsburgh filled with apple picking, fresh cider donuts, a huge gluten-free market, and seasonal festivals, look no further than Soergel Orchards.
This multi-generation farm in Wexford, Pennsylvania, has become a year-round destination for locals and travelers alike.
In 2025, Soergel continues to embody the best of agritourism: local charm, interactive learning, and year-round celebrations. This guide delves into what makes Soergel Orchards a must-visit destination, what to expect in 2025, and insider tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
| Location | 2573 Brandt School Road, Wexford, PA 15090 |
| Contact | 📞 (724) 935-1743 |
| Hours (Market/Bakery) | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily (seasonal changes apply) |
| Website | soergels.com |
Why Visit Soergel Orchards?
Soergels Orchards is not just a farm; it’s a community hub that combines fresh produce, family fun, and educational experiences. Visitors come for the orchards, stay for the bakery, and return for the welcoming atmosphere that has defined the Soergel family for generations.
🧺 What is Agritourism?
Agritourism means visiting a working farm for recreational, educational, or food-related activities, like apple picking, hayrides, or festivals.
Soergel Orchards is one of Western Pennsylvania’s most popular agritourism sites, blending agriculture, retail, and entertainment into one family destination.
The Story Behind Soergel Orchards
Founded in 1850 by John Conrad Soergel, the orchard began as a small apple farm and has now grown into a full-fledged community landmark. Six generations later, the Soergel family continues to operate the business, staying true to its roots of local agriculture, sustainability, and family values.
Over time, Soergel Orchards expanded into multiple branches across the region — from Wexford to Renfrew and Prospect — offering fruit, flowers, cider, and educational farm programs.
Seasonal Highlights: What to Expect All Year Round
To make trip planning easier, here’s a quick comparison table that outlines what’s best in each season:
| Season | Main Activities | Highlights |
| Spring | Garden Center & Flowers | Early blooms, plants, and local produce |
| Summer | Berry & Peach Picking | Family-friendly fruit picking and Soergel Scoops ice cream |
| Fall | Apple & Pumpkin Picking, Festivals | Hayrides, corn mazes, food vendors, live music |
| Winter | Holiday Market | Wreaths, Christmas trees, baked gifts, and hot cider |
🍎 Fall (The Big Draw)
Fall is Soergel’s busiest and most beloved season. The Fall Festivals — held on weekends from mid-September through late October — feature:
- Apple and pumpkin picking
- Corn mazes and tractor rides
- Local craft vendors and seasonal foods
- Cider pressing demonstrations
📅 Visit Soergel’s Events Page for the 2025 Fall Festival schedule and apple-picking chart.
Fall Festival Fun & Prices at Soergels Orchards
Get ready for a weekend full of fun, food, and family moments! During our Festival Weekends, we’re serving delicious funnel cakes and crispy French fries — perfect treats while you enjoy the fall vibes.
🎉 Admission:
The Fall Festival is completely free to attend! There’s no entry fee — just pay for the activities and goodies you choose.
💲 Popular Attraction Prices:
- Apple Picking: $7 per quarter peck bag (each bag is good for up to 2 people) 🍏
- Pumpkins: $0.59 per pound 🎃
- Flower Field Bouquets: $13 each (available while blooms last) 🌸
- Tractor Rides: $4 per person 🚜
Bring your friends, grab a snack, and make the most of this festive season at Soergel Orchards!
🍓 Summer & Late Summer
- Berry picking begins in early summer.
- Peach and apple picking start in late summer.
- Visit Soergel’s Apple Chart for real-time updates on ripe varieties.
The Market, Bakery & Naturally Soergel’s Gluten-Free Store
🥧 The Market & Bakery
Inside the farm market, you’ll find:
- Fresh apple cider donuts 🍩
- Homemade pies and seasonal pastries
- Fresh-pressed cider and local jams
- Hot sandwiches, soups, and deli specials
Their apple pie and cider donuts are local legends — worth the drive alone.
🌾 Naturally Soergel’s
Soergel’s gluten-free market is one of Pennsylvania’s largest, offering over 1,500 gluten-free and allergen-friendly items. From snacks to baking mixes, everything is clearly labeled and curated by staff knowledgeable about allergies and sensitivities.
This makes Soergel a must-visit for families with dietary restrictions — a blend of convenience and inclusivity rare among farm markets.
Apple Cider & Food Safety
Soergel’s cider is flash-pasteurized, not raw — meaning it’s safe for kids and families while retaining natural apple flavor. The cider press operates on-site and uses a cold filtration process that ensures freshness and quality.
Available by the jug year-round, this cider pairs perfectly with the bakery’s cinnamon donuts — the classic fall duo.
Food & Cider
Soergel has a lot more than apples. You’ll also find:
- Deli & Hot Food Counter: sandwiches, soups, and farm-fresh salads
- Arsenal Cider House (📍arsenalciderhouse.com): award-winning craft ciders made from local apples
- Soergel Scoops: homemade ice cream and milkshakes in the summer
- Local Wine Shop: artisan Pennsylvania wines available for tasting and purchase
Soergel Orchards Events in 2025
The 2025 season promises a full calendar of farm festivals, workshops, and family-friendly gatherings. Each event focuses on community engagement, sustainability, and fun.
1. Spring Kickoff & Greenhouse Weekend (April 12–13, 2025)
Celebrate the start of planting season! Explore the greenhouse, shop for garden starters, and enjoy farm-fresh smoothies.
2. Summer Berry Festival (July 6–7, 2025)
A berry lover’s dream — pick your own strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries while enjoying live music and frozen treats.
3. Apple Fest & Harvest Weekend (September 20–21, 2025)
The signature Soergel event! Enjoy apple picking, cider tastings, and the famous apple pie bake-off. Don’t miss live performances and kids’ tractor rides.
4. Fall Pumpkin Festival (October 4–26, 2025, weekends)
A family tradition — pumpkins, hayrides, petting zoos, face painting, and cider slushies. Perfect for photos and fall vibes.
5. Holiday Market & Tree Lighting (December 7–8, 2025)
End the year with warmth and community spirit. Local vendors, handmade gifts, holiday treats, and Santa appearances make this a must-visit event.
Pro Tip: Visit the official Soergel Orchards website or their Facebook Events page for updated 2025 schedules and ticket information.
Family Activities & Learning Opportunities
For families, Soergel offers hands-on fun:
- Hayrides and petting animals
- Wagon rides and pumpkin painting
- School field trips and educational farm tours
Each program teaches kids about farming, food systems, and sustainability — making the orchard both entertaining and educational.
Garden Center
Open daily, Soergel’s Garden Center features:
- Seasonal flowers and plants 🌼
- Perennials, herbs, and gardening tools
- Compost, mulch, and eco-friendly fertilizers
The staff provides expert gardening advice, and their locally grown selections make for a sustainable spring and summer hobby stop.
Planning Your Visit
🕓 Hours
- Market/Bakery: 9 AM – 6 PM daily (seasonal variations apply)
- Cider & Wine Shop: Check Soergel’s contact page for updated hours.
🚗 Parking
Large on-site parking is free. During festivals, overflow lots open, but arrive early (around 10 AM) to avoid traffic jams.
🎟️ Tickets
Festival entry is free, but specific attractions (like the corn maze or hayrides) may require wristbands. Ticket details are updated every season.
🐶 Pets
For safety, pets are not allowed during events. Service animals are welcome with notice.
Shopping & Souvenirs
Don’t leave without:
- Fresh-picked apples 🍏
- Locally made jams and honey
- Gluten-free pantry goods
- Apple cider donuts (they freeze beautifully)
- Handmade gifts, candles, and ornaments during the holidays
Community & Sustainability
Soergel supports local producers and sustainable agriculture through:
- Partnerships with local farms
- Educational programs for schools
- Food donation drives and charity events
Their commitment to local food systems and eco-conscious practices adds trust and authenticity to the experience.
What Visitors Are Saying
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐) Based on 2,473 Reviews. Google Reviews
⭐ TripAdvisor: 4.5/5 (over 500 reviews)
⭐ Yelp: 4.4/5
Visitors praise the friendly staff, family activities, and variety of products. Some note long lines during peak weekends — so weekday visits can be a calmer option.
👉 Check TripAdvisor reviews
👉 View Yelp reviews
FAQs
Q1: When is Soergel’s Orchards open?
A: The market and bakery are open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Festival hours may differ. Always check soergels.com for updates.
Q2: When are the Fall Festivals?
A: Typically from mid-September through late October, Saturdays and Sundays.
Q3: Does Soergel have gluten-free items?
A: Yes! Their “Naturally Soergel’s” market is one of the largest gluten-free selections in the state.
Q4: Can I bring pets?
A: No pets, except registered service animals.
Q5: Is the cider pasteurized?
A: Yes. It’s flash-pasteurized to ensure both flavor and safety.
Final Thoughts: Why Soergel Orchards Belongs on Your 2025 Bucket List
Soergel Orchards is more than a farm; it’s a four-season community experience. Whether you’re apple-picking in fall, shopping gluten-free year-round, or simply enjoying cider with friends, the orchard blends tradition, hospitality, and quality in every detail.
For first-timers: arrive early, bring reusable bags, and plan for a half-day adventure.
For locals: Soergel is that timeless spot where each season tastes a little different and is always delicious.
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