Get to Know Okaw Valley Orchard
At Visit Champaign County, we collaborate with regional partners to help market the greater Champaign County area to visitors and residents alike. One such area is the Amish Country of Illinois made up of Arthur, Arcola, Tuscola, and Sullivan. Within driving distance for Champaign-Urbana residents and perfect for day and weekend getaways, these areas help add to our Outside of Ordinary offerings as a premiere destination in the Midwest. If you're not familiar with these areas, we'll be highlighting some must-visit spots over the next few months and beyond to show you all that the Amish Country of Illinois has to offer. Our first spotlight is Okaw Valley Orchard, located in Sullivan.
A SEASONAL TRADITION, A FAMILY PASSION
One attraction that fits perfectly with the early days of Fall is Okaw Valley Orchard. Located in Sullivan, this incredible orchard features favorite apple picking in its over 1500 fruit trees that grow 27 varieties of apples, peaches, plums, and pears.
Okaw Valley Orchard is run by three generations of the Bailey Family. Original owners Jim and Linda live on-site with their eldest daughter Jennifer and her husband Mike. Along with their young son Caleb, this area attraction that brings in thousands of visitors is more than just a seasonal tradition. Running an orchard is hard work but the Bailey Family works to ensure everyone who visits their farm makes lifelong memories.
What Is there to do at okaw valley orchard?
The orchard isn't just for picking fruit. On top of U-Pick selections of certain trees in-season trees, there's a full-fledged country store on the property as well. Here you can shop everything from baked goods like pies and donuts to fresh apple and pear ciders. There is also a significant selection of canned goods like honey, jams, and more. Okaw Valley Orchard partners with local makers for many of these items, contributing their own applesauce and apple butter made on the farm.
If you're visiting you'll also see a number of fun gifts in stock. Cookbooks, kitchen items, Earth Rug accessories and locally made items are all on display and available.
What are the hours of operations for Okaw Valley Orchard?
The orchard and store are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sundays. Okaw Valley Orchard's address is 724 CR 1750 North, Sullivan, IL, 61951. Per their website, here are some tips on directions if you're coming from outside of the area:
From I-70, Take Route 32 N. once you reach Sullivan, continue towards Lovington, approximately four miles. After going through the "S" curve, watch for the blue Tourist Activity sign titled Okaw Valley Orchard, it will direct you to turn left on County Road 1750 N. This road makes two 90 degree turns, be sure to stay on the paved road and continue until you see our sign.
From Decatur, take 121 East through Dalton City. One Quarter mile before Bethany look for Blue Tourist Activity sign titled Okaw Valley Orchard, it will direct you to turn left on County Road 1750 N. East 4 miles until you see our sign.From I-57, take the Arcola exit 203. Turn west on IL. RT. 133, stay on RT. 133 all the way to Lovington, approx. 18 miles. In Lovington RT.133 "T"s with RT. 32. Take RT. 32 south approx 4 miles, watch for blue tourist activity sign titled Okaw Valley Orchard, it will direct you to turn right on county rd. 1750 N. This road makes two 90 degree turns, be sure to stay on the paved road until you see our sign.
Follow Okaw Valley Orchard on Facebook to keep up with what's ready for picking and other updates to their offerings. If you visit the Orchard, be sure to tag us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @visitchampaign and use the hashtag #OutsideofOrdinary!