Family Fun & Farm Tours at Ricker Hill Orchards, Turner ME - Portland, Maine

Family Fun & Farm Tours at Ricker Hill Orchards, Turner ME

Portland, Maineeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly easy walking on farm paths.

Overview

Ricker Hill Orchards in Turner, Maine, invites families and school groups to celebrate the season with farm tours, fresh cider, and lively birthday parties on working orchard grounds.

Details

Ricker Hill Orchards is a lively family-run destination set in the rural charm of Turner, Maine. This working orchard and farm offers visitors a genuine taste of Maine’s agricultural heritage through engaging birthday parties, school tours, and seasonal farm activities. Whether you’re bringing a group of energetic kids or want to gather family for an outdoor celebration, Ricker Hill delivers a hands-on experience filled with the sights, smells, and flavors of apple and maple country.

The orchard sprawls over rolling fields where a variety of apples, blueberries, and grapes are grown, allowing guests to witness the farm’s seasonal rhythms firsthand. Visitors often rave about the crisp orchard air, the sweet aroma of cider donuts freshly made on-site, and the welcoming atmosphere that feels like a community gathering rather than a commercial venue. From the festive Maple Sunday events showcasing Maine’s maple syrup traditions to the vibrant corn maze, there’s a balance of education and fun tailored to all ages.

School tours are designed to engage students with live demonstrations and interactive experiences, from sampling local maple products to learning about sustainable farming practices in New England. Birthday parties here can include guided walks through orchards, playful activities, and access to cozy indoor spaces, perfect for both small and extended gatherings.

What sets Ricker Hill Orchards apart in the outdoor community is its dedication to authentic family time amid working farmland, combined with delicious specialty products like gluten-free baked goods, fresh cider, and seasonal pumpkins. It’s a place where Maine’s agricultural roots come alive in a lively, friendly setting that encourages visitors to connect with the land and local traditions.

Whether you’re planning a school field trip or searching for a memorable birthday venue with fresh air and farm-fresh flavors, Ricker Hill Orchards offers a warm welcome just outside the Portland area.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Cider Donuts

The fresh cider donuts sell out quickly—arrive early to avoid missing this fan favorite treat.

Dress for Outdoor Farm Activities

Wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing since much of the experience happens outside on uneven ground.

Parking Can Fill Quickly

Plan extra time for parking during popular events or weekends, as the lot can get crowded.

Book Birthday Parties in Advance

Secure your preferred party date early, especially during apple harvest and fall festival seasons.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Early-season maple syrup tapping demonstrations
  • Quiet berry bushes off the main paths

Wildlife

  • Eastern chipmunks
  • Red-tailed hawks

History

Ricker Hill Orchards carries forward Maine’s long tradition of apple farming and maple syrup production, linking generations to the land.

Conservation

The orchard practices sustainable farming methods that protect soil health and support local ecosystems to maintain its productive landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Apple orchard rows
  • Cider house porch
  • Corn maze entrance

What to Photograph

Ripe apples on trees
Seasonal farm displays
Families enjoying outdoor activities

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Sturdy footwear is recommended for navigating uneven orchard and farm terrain.

Weather-appropriate outerwear

Essential

Bring layers or rain gear depending on the season to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.

all specific

Reusable water bottle

Keep hydrated while walking the grounds, especially on warmer days.

summer|fall specific

Sun protection

Sunscreen and a hat are useful during sunny summer events and birthday parties.

summer specific