El Dorado Orchards — Attraction in Placerville

Peaceful, beautiful setting with 2 ponds, geese, a real train on real tracks that all ages can ride. A fruit stand and bake shop too. Historical significance: El Dorado Orchards is THE farm where the very first Apple Hill event happened. I am face painting there every weekend from mid-Sept through Thanksgiving and probably into December when they start selling Christmas trees you get to pick and cut (they provide help). Currently, there's vendors with jewelry, flavored nuts (cinnamon/butterscotch? are da bomb), books and more. This year (2023) there's also Henna. Bring cash ... some vendors accept CCs and Venmo but a few don't and reception is spotty. One difference between this farm and others is this has open space to run and play near the fenced-in pond and picnic tables for some old fashioned family fun. And it's a lovely place to avoid the crowds because it's 1/2 mile off the main route. Only open Fri/Sat/Sun during Apple Season....

Apple Hill was a great experience with the whole family. I feel like the organizers thought of everything. Restrooms near the parking areas because after a long drive everyone knows the first thing everyone needs to do is hit the bathroom!!! Amazing how many events do not get that! Lots of places to sit. Tons of activities for the kids and lots of security all around. Nice wide paths for walking and crossing guards to help deal with people crossing the busy road. It looked crazy when we first drove up but don't worry, just keep heading down the road. There is parking everywhere and lots of it. Of course the food is great and the apple desserts are amazing! Thanks for organizing a great family event. One suggestion??? Maybe some low-key live music here or there?...

Nice small beautiful orchard. Although not as expansive as some of the other ones, this place does attract a crowd. They have some arts and crafts place, and their Apple Shakes are a must try. A five minute train ride here around their lake cost $5.00 and plenty of areas to take memorable pictures.

It's a good place to fill in some time in your day but if your schedule is cramped, you can visit this...