No matter what season you’re visiting Door County with your family, you definitely need to add Lautenbach’s Orchard to your list of places to check out in Fish Creek! In the spring you can expect to see tons of gorgeous cherry tree blossoms and apple tree blossoms. In the summer the orchard is filled with an abundance of fresh cherries. And in the fall you’ll find an endless supply of delicious apples.
Lautenbach’s Orchard is a family owned business that started in 1955. They started as a small orchard and eventually became the business we know today. They have multiple orchards, a market, winery and cider mill on-site. Lautenbach’s Orchard is an iconic staple in Door County and a great place to try wine haha. Be sure to stop and sample some of their locally grown and produced products including cherry wine, cherry pie, artisan cheese, jams, salsa and more!
I had a chance to speak with Lautenbach’s marketing director Carrie about the orchard and get some details about apple picking, cherry picking and family activities available at Lautenbach’s Orchard. Check out our conversation below!
Q&A with Carrie at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country
Can you share a little bit about the history of Lautenbach’s Orchard and how it got started?
Bill & Ruth Lautenbach purchased the property in 1955, which consisted of a small dairy farm and fruit trees. The family started selling fruit from a wagon to passing tourists. Bob, the eldest son and his family took over the farm in the 70’s after Bill & Ruth passed away. Sold the cows, planted more fruit trees, built a farm market in 1975 to sell seasonal fruit and local products. Shortly after, built a fruit press to make home-made cherry and apple cider and established a winery in 1985, a hard cider co in 2018.
What varieties of cherries and or apples do you grow at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country?
5 varieties of tart and sweet cherries to purchase seasonally in our market with the majority being the traditional Door County Montmorency tart cherry. 9 varieties of apples to purchase seasonally in our market with the most popular being the Honeycrisp variety.
Cherries (60 acres): Tart Montmorency, Balaton, Jubileem; Sweet Bing, Rainier, Queen Anne.
Apples/Varieties (20 acres): Honey Crisp, Gala, Cortland, Macintosh, Macoun, Golden Supreme, Jonathan, JonaGold, JonaMac
Are there specific times of year when families should plan their visit for peak cherry or apple picking and what is the experience like for visitors?
Mid July-through early August for cherries; Tart Montmorency only cherry available for pick your own, we provide the pails that you purchase inside the market, before heading out to the orchard. Mid September through early October for apple picking, all varieties are available for pick your own, we provide the bags that you purchase inside the market, before heading out to the orchard.
What family-friendly/dog-friendly activities are available at Lautenbach’s?
We have a playground area and yard games for the kids and kids at heart. Our Cherry Pit Spit is a popular activity, with cherries available year-round for pitting and spitting. Leashed and well-behaved pets are always welcome outdoors on our patio, grounds, and indoors…if not too crowded.
Do you host events at your orchard?
Annually, 2 events: Summer Harvest Cherry Fest, Winter Wine & Cherry Fest, Live Music on Saturdays, Horse-drawn sleigh rides, Food Truck on-site.
What makes your business different from others in Door County?
We allow families to experience fruit picking, but we also have a family friendly market, bakery and winery that is open year-round where you can taste not only the fresh fruit but many products using the fruits grown and harvested on-site.
What is your favorite cherry variety and why?
The tart Montmorency, because it is so versatile and good for you – you can enjoy fresh, but also used in so many delicious products– pie, salsa, dressings, sauces, etc.
How can visitors get in touch with Lautenbach’s Orchard?
Email: info@orchardcountry.com
Phone: 920-868-3479
https://www.orchardcountry.com/
https://www.facebook.com/orchardcountry/
https://www.instagram.com/lautenbachsorchardcountry/
Anything else you’d like readers to know about Lautenbach’s Orchard?
We invite you to visit our family farm in beautiful Door County, Wisconsin – where we have been growing, harvesting, and producing award-winning fruit products since 1955 – and hope you will continue to make Orchard Country a tradition in your family for generations to come! The Lautenbach Family & The LOC Team.
Visit Lautenbach’s Orchard for Door County Souvenirs, Cherries, Apples & More!
This family owned business is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with your family! Whether you’re picking cherries, buying some souvenirs, trying wine or enjoying a homemade cherry pie, you’re sure to enjoy your time at Lautenbach’s Orchard in Fish Creek.
If you happen to be searching for a family photographer while visiting Door County, I’d love to be considered! I’m all about having fun and creating fun memories during my sessions. And your trip to Door County definitely deserves to be remembered. Browse through my site or send me an email if you have questions, I’d be happy to help!
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