University of Minnesota’s Arboretum AppleHouse Reopens, Blending Seasonal Delights with Research Legacy
VICTORIA, Minn. — With the arrival of autumn, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum’s AppleHouse has once again opened its doors, offering visitors a rich mix of seasonal flavors, fresh produce, and a glimpse into the University of Minnesota’s storied apple-breeding program.
Located at 7485 Rolling Acres Road in Victoria, just west of the Arboretum’s main entrance, the AppleHouse operates as both a seasonal market and an extension of the University’s horticultural research mission.
A Seasonal Destination
From late August through December 20, the AppleHouse showcases Minnesota-grown apples, many cultivated at the Arboretum’s nearby Horticultural Research Center (HRC). Visitors can choose from a wide selection of varieties, including classics like Honeycrisp and newer University introductions that continue the institution’s legacy of innovation dating back to 1908.
In addition to apples, the AppleHouse features frozen apple pies, pastries, gourmet packaged foods, and gifts. As fall progresses, pumpkins, squash, and gourds grown on Arboretum grounds join the lineup. A longtime partner, North Star Donuts, also offers fresh cider, donuts, and coffee through October.
Beyond Produce: A Research Connection
The AppleHouse also reflects the University’s broader agricultural mission. While supplies last, visitors can purchase meats processed through the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) Meat Science Laboratory, which produces beef, pork, lamb, and poultry as part of its teaching and research programs.
This dual role—serving the public while advancing research—makes the AppleHouse more than just a retail stop. It is a direct outlet for the University’s century-long work in fruit breeding, which brought the world the renowned Honeycrisp apple and continues to test thousands of seedlings each season for flavor, resilience, and market potential.
Looking Ahead
The Arboretum is also preparing for the future with the planned Betty’s Apple House, a larger, year-round facility expected to open in 2027. The new venue will expand retail space and add educational exhibits and innovative offerings such as University-developed ice cream, further connecting visitors to the science behind Minnesota’s favorite fall fruit.
A Free and Family-Friendly Outing
Admission to the AppleHouse is free, and shoppers can take advantage of a 10% discount on purchases with an Arboretum membership. The market is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering families and food lovers a convenient way to experience Minnesota’s agricultural heritage and stock up on fall favorites.
For updates on daily apple availability, visitors are encouraged to call the AppleHouse Hotline at 612-301-3487.
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