13 Upstate New York Cider-Donut Stands Worth The Turnoff
Fall in Upstate New York means colorful leaves, crisp air, and the heavenly aroma of fresh cider donuts. These sweet treats, with their crunchy exterior and cake-like inside, have become a beloved autumn tradition for locals and leaf-peepers alike.
So pack up the car, grab the family, and get ready for a delicious adventure at these must-visit cider donut destinations.
1. Golden Harvest Farms – Valatie, NY
Family-owned since 1957, this Columbia County gem creates donuts that practically melt in your mouth. The secret? They’re made continuously throughout the day, ensuring you’ll always get one warm.
Their farm store also offers incredible apple pies, local cheeses, and their own Harvest Spirits Farm Distillery producing apple-based spirits.
2. Fishkill Farms – Hopewell Junction, NY
The eco-certified orchards at Fishkill provide the perfect backdrop for donut indulgence. Their cider donuts are made with a hint of nutmeg that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Weekend visitors can enjoy the Treasury Cider taproom, where hard ciders made from their heritage and heirloom apples pair wonderfully with those famous donuts.
3. Wright’s Farm – Gardiner, NY
Nestled against the stunning Shawangunk Ridge, Wright’s has been perfecting their donut recipe since 1904. The slightly crisp exterior gives way to a tender, cinnamon-spiced interior that captures fall in every bite.
Kids love watching the donut-making machine while parents appreciate the generous farm market filled with local produce, jams, and Wright’s own hard cider.
4. Fly Creek Cider Mill – Fly Creek, NY
A visit to this 163-year-old water-powered mill feels like stepping back in time. Their cake-style cider donuts have achieved legendary status among Cooperstown-area visitors and locals alike.
Watch the 1889 cider press in action before sampling their famous donuts. The mill pond with ducks and viewing deck makes this a perfect family destination worth every mile of the drive.
5. Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards – Lafayette, NY
Five generations of apple-growing expertise translates into donut perfection at this Central New York institution. Their mini cider donuts come hot and fresh, with just the right amount of cinnamon-sugar coating.
After donut sampling, adults can visit 1911 Established, their on-site distillery and tasting room. The breathtaking hilltop views of the orchards make this spot especially magical during peak foliage.
6. Indian Ladder Farms – Altamont, NY
Perched at the base of the Helderberg Escarpment, this century-old farm produces some of the most addictive cider donuts in the Capital Region. The contrast between the crispy exterior and soft, apple-infused interior creates donut magic.
Their biergarten serving farm-brewed hard cider and beer makes for a perfect adult pit stop. Meanwhile, kids will love visiting the farm animals and exploring the nature trails.
7. Appledale Orchards – Mexico, NY
This charming family-run orchard near Lake Ontario flies under the radar but shouldn’t be missed. Their old-fashioned cake donuts have a distinctive vanilla note that sets them apart from competitors.
The no-frills approach focuses on quality over flash. Grab a half-dozen warm donuts and a jug of their unfiltered cider, then find a spot at their picnic tables overlooking the orchards for an authentic fall experience.
8. Dyn’s Cider Mill – Richfield Springs, NY
Small-batch excellence defines the donuts at this hidden gem near Cooperstown. The Dyn family has used the same recipe for generations, creating a perfectly spiced donut that pairs beautifully with their tangy fresh cider.
The antique cider press demonstrations on weekends add educational value to your visit. Their cozy, wood-heated mill building creates the perfect atmosphere for enjoying these treats on a crisp fall day.
9. Stone Ridge Orchard – Stone Ridge, NY
Hudson Valley food lovers make pilgrimages to this historic orchard for their exceptional cider donuts. Made with locally milled flour and their own pressed cider, these treats achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
The 200-year-old barn and stunning Catskill Mountain views create an idyllic setting. Their weekend food truck serves wood-fired pizzas that pair surprisingly well with those famous donuts.
10. Greig Farm – Red Hook, NY
A Dutchess County landmark since 1942, Greig Farm’s donuts have a devoted following for good reason. Their recipe uses brown sugar instead of white, creating a deeper, more complex flavor that perfectly complements their tangy cider.
The year-round farmers market features local artisans and food producers. Don’t miss their pygmy goat petting area – a hit with kids after they’ve fueled up on those amazing donuts.
11. Barton Orchards – Poughquag, NY
More than just donuts, Barton offers a full fall festival atmosphere. But their cider donuts remain the star – perfectly sized, with a hint of orange zest that brightens the traditional spice blend.
The sprawling 175-acre farm features a tap room, food trucks, and weekend entertainment. Their donut sundae – warm donut topped with ice cream and caramel – might be the ultimate fall indulgence.
12. Masker Orchards – Warwick, NY
Drive right into the orchard at this unique pick-your-own destination just an hour from NYC. Their donuts achieve the perfect texture – not too cakey, not too crumbly – with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar.
The ability to park beside your favorite apple trees makes this especially appealing for families. Their country store’s upstairs window offers spectacular views of the 200-acre orchard while you enjoy those fresh donuts.
13. Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard – North Salem, NY
Worth the drive from NYC, this Westchester County farm creates donuts with a distinctive honey note. The slightly smaller size means you can justify eating more than one (or three)!
Weekend visitors enjoy live music and hard cider tastings alongside those famous donuts. Their donut-making viewing window lets kids watch the magic happen while parents appreciate the farm’s relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
