There’s nothing quite like the serenity of an autumn afternoon spent in nature, surrounded by the crisp air and the beauty of an apple orchard. Starting this October, we’re thrilled to invite you to experience this peaceful escape firsthand with our new Orchard Picnics at The Orchard at Meadow Lakes. Picture yourself indulging in fresh, locally made treats while taking in the breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the vibrant colors of fall. This is more than just a picnic - it’s a chance to disconnect, savor seasonal flavors, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the farm.
Hand-Picked Picnic Perfection: The Menu
We’ve partnered with the talented team at Julie’s Kitchen to provide a menu that pairs perfectly with the rustic charm of the orchard. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic day out, gathering with family, or simply craving a solo escape, these picnics are sure to satisfy. Each picnic offers a delicious selection of:
Tea sandwiches – These delicate, savory bites offer a blend of light, refreshing flavors.
Freshly baked goods – Scones, tartlets, and other goodies (both sweet and savory) that are made with love and care.
Apple-themed treats – Featuring ingredients straight from our orchard, including our signature varieties of apples, turned into mouthwatering delights.
Local partners - We feature all local partners in the eastern Fresno, Madera, and Mariposa County foothills and mountains, and the Fresno County portion of the Central Valley (e.g., honey, olive oil, goats milk, veggies, spices, etc.)
Every item is prepared fresh by Julie’s Kitchen, ensuring that your picnic is filled with the farm-to-table flavors that reflect the best of the season and the incredible findings of the Sierra Nevada mountain region. Each bite is designed to enhance your day and add a touch of indulgence to your peaceful outdoor experience.
Five Perfect Picnic Spots
While you’re welcome to explore the orchard and find your own favorite nook, we’ve picked out five special spots that offer some of the most spectacular views and serene surroundings on the farm. Each location has been thoughtfully selected to create a truly immersive experience that connects you to the orchard’s natural beauty. Here’s a glimpse into the five spots we recommend for your picnic:
Robin’s View: Named after our dedicated farm manager, this spot offers a panoramic, 180-degree view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Situated under the shade of our iconic oak tree, this location feels like a secret haven in the heart of the orchard. You can watch the mountains stretch toward the horizon while surrounded by rows of apple trees, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal.
The Wedding Hill: If you're after wide-open skies and a peaceful breeze, Wedding Hill is the spot for you. This elevated area provides a bird's-eye view of the entire orchard, along with sweeping glimpses of the surrounding landscapes. The hill's gentle slope also makes it perfect for a relaxing afternoon of lounging, letting you take in the scenery at your own pace.
The Juniper Tree Nook: For those with outgoing personalities, and who would love an opportunity to welcome people to the orchard, the Juniper Tree Nook offers shade and a prime spot to wave at the guests as they arrive. Nestled between the road and our beautiful Arkansas Black trees, it feels like your own little corner of the orchard while in the midst of everything. It's perfect for small groups or couples who want a more structured environment to enjoy the picturesque orchard surroundings.
The Walk-In Cooler View: Don’t be fooled by the name! This area is next to our walk-in cooler, where we store the freshest of our harvest. With its close proximity to the orchard’s rows of trees and the rustic charm of farm life all around, it’s a wonderful spot to watch our farmers at work while you enjoy your lunch. Pro-tip: It is well known that people who choose this spot enjoy free samples of everything we're tasting throughout the day.
The Four Seasons Maple: This spot, located halfway between our short-term stay and Juniper Tree Nook, is named for the magnificent maple tree that undergoes a stunning transformation throughout the fall. As the season progresses, the Four Seasons Maple changes through four distinct colors - lush green, golden yellow, fiery red, and deep orange - making it a perfect backdrop for your picnic. The tree’s vibrant, ever-changing colors create a breathtaking atmosphere, and the location offers a birds-eye view of the "goings-on" of the orchard. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to soak in the beauty of fall and watch nature’s vivid palette unfold.
No matter which spot you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the orchard and the stunning landscape beyond. We’ve put care into ensuring that every corner of our farm is peaceful and relaxing, so wherever you set up, you’ll be guaranteed a perfect setting.
Limited Reservations Available – Book Your Spot Now
To preserve the tranquility and ensure an intimate experience for every guest, we’re limiting the number of picnic reservations to just ten per weekend. This makes each picnic a truly exclusive experience, allowing you to feel like the orchard is yours alone for the afternoon. Imagine wandering the rows of apple trees, finding your ideal picnic spot, and settling in for a cozy, quiet meal surrounded by nature.
But because of this limited availability, we recommend booking your spot as early as possible. Reservations must be made by Sunday at 4:30 PM for the upcoming weekend, so be sure to plan ahead. With fall’s stunning weather and the beauty of harvest season, these picnics are sure to fill up fast. Whether you’re local or just visiting, this is an opportunity to enjoy a unique and peaceful escape to the countryside.
How to Reserve Your Picnic
Reserving your picnic is simple! There are a few ways to make sure you’re on the list for this special experience:
Visit our retail store: Stop by the orchard’s shop to sign up in person. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you pick your date and answer any questions.
Email us: Send an email to tami@meadowlakesorchard.com to inquire about availability and lock in your spot.
Call us: Feel free to give us a call at (559) 890-1022 for more information or to book directly over the phone.
We want to make sure your picnic is everything you’ve dreamed of, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any special requests or questions. We’re here to help make your day as memorable as possible.
Celebrate Fall at Meadow Lakes Orchard
Fall is a magical time at the orchard, and these picnics are the perfect way to celebrate the season. From the fresh mountain air to the mouthwatering treats from Julie’s Kitchen, this is an experience designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life—like a peaceful afternoon, good food, and time spent with the ones you love.
We can’t wait to host you and share this special slice of the orchard with you. Whether it’s a leisurely picnic with friends or a romantic date with someone special, our farm offers the perfect backdrop to create lasting memories.
Ready to Join Us?
Come spend an afternoon in the heart of nature, savor the flavors of fall, and make memories that will linger long after the picnic ends. Reserve your Orchard Picnic today and get ready to experience the magic of The Orchard at Meadow Lakes!
*All menus are seasonal and available by request (including gluten and dairy-free options). Prices are subject to change depending on seasonal availability.
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