Summer heat is still simmering in the Heartland, but we hear there's a crisp on the way — honeycrisp, that is. Soak up these early autumn days with a trip to one of these 9 Kansas City apple orchards and pumpkin patches.

In-cider information

Cider Hill Family Orchard | KCK | With 6,000 trees and 18 varieties, there's plenty of picking to go around — just make sure to leave room for treats, like frozen slushies + apple pie nachos.

Gieringer's Family Farm | Edgerton, KS | Unlike most orchards, Gieringer's grows their apples on a trellis, making for easier picking.

Louisburg Cider Mill | Louisburg, KS | You know the name, and you probably already have a gallon jug in your fridge. Catch classic activities like the live apple pressing, Louisburg Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, and vendor fair at its final CiderFest weekend on Saturday, Oct. 4 + Sunday, Oct. 5.

Johnson Farms | Belton, MO | Go for the two-in-one with both apple picking and pumpkin patches, plus keep an eye out for its royal wedding–themed corn maze.

Oh my gourd-ness

Carolyn's Pumpkin Patch | Liberty, MO | Last weekend was the patch's official opening, meaning you can still grab the cream of the crop before its gone.

Weston Red Barn | Weston, MO | This 19th-century working farm hosts a weekend fall festival with hayrides, pumpkins, ponies, caramel apples, barbecue, and apple cider.

KC Pumpkin Patch | Olathe, KS | Take advantage of attractions included in your ticket — including human foosball, photo ops, and Bunnyville.

Faulkner's Ranch | KCMO | These pumpkins are pre-picked, meaning more time for activities like pony rides and corn cannons.

Schaake's Pumpkin Patch | Lawrence, KS | City Editor Maddie here. This is a family fave, but we're sure it's not just us that loves the quaint country store and its unique pumpkin varieties.