Andrew B.
Yelp
Since moving to the great state of GA, I've been doing my best to try out the classic experiences that I'm told a Georgian should enjoy. Apple picking in the fall, now that's one of the biggest ones. Every year, the tourists in Ellijay descend upon these storied orchards with an intensity that really doesn't have much of a rival. It gets ultra busy, so my advice is to make your visit to the area outside of the traditional peak of the apple harvest. The festival is great and everything, but if you really want to enjoy the constellation of area farms, pay your visit a few weeks before others do.
That being said, Reece is a super spot, and really fun for a visit with the kids. It's not like there aren't many choices here. The local farms really lay it out in a friendly way for the family day trippers. Among other farms, Reece is distinguished by the jawdropping views from the top of the hill. There are much worse ways to spend an afternoon, crunching on an apple and watching God's country roll on endlessly into the distance. They offer, of course, lots of activities for your tired munchkins (petting zoo!). Like other farms, the picking itself is pretty simple. You (1) pay a fee for a sack of varying sizes and (2) they set you loose amongst the trees.
The farm store is very spacious and friendly, with the usual fare on offer. Reading other reviews, I probably missed an opportunity to get one of their hand pies, which are made in a tremendous array of fillings. My mistake, apparently. They've got lots of other stuff, from hot sauces to jellies to all kinds of what-have-you.
A few things to keep in mind: (1) If you are picking on the hill (the portion of the farm south of route 52), there are not really a lot of convenient pass-through paths between the rows of trees, between which are strung guide wires. Your grandmother will not be able to climb between these wires. It's a working farm, so just keep that in mind when bringing infirm or otherwise vulnerable folks. (2) They do their best with outdoor bathrooms, but like usual, it's best to go before you leave. Not like my kids ever do, but it bears repeating.