By: Trent Chassy
The Midwest isn’t always seen as exciting but Curtis Orchard challenges that idea every day. Curtis Orchard, located at 3902 S Duncan Rd, is a staple of our community bringing its famous treats, drinks, and entertainment into one family friendly environment.
The Curtis family has been in Champaign for nearly 150 years. Originally they farmed corn, soybeans, and hogs before they changed to an apple orchard in 1977. In the following years a store was built, and apple cider production began. Since then, the store has evolved further introducing baked goods and opening the Flying Monkey Café.
The country store offers a variety of unique items from apples, honey, coffees, teas, and toys of all kinds. Some notable items are the award-winning apple cider and the iconic apple donuts which are made fresh daily. The apple cider is made onsite and can be seen in production. In the processing shed, found in the country store, apples are being sorted and juiced all day long. The bakery, located near the Flying Monkey Café, is where all baked goods are prepared and you can watch donuts being made daily.
Along with its apple products, Curtis Orchard also produces award winning honey. The Curtis Orchard hives can be seen in the northwest area of the compound and their product is sold in the country store. Third generation Curtis family member Rachel Coventry’s honey has taken home two accredited awards, one regional and one international, from the Center for Honeybee Research.
Among the many available treats there are also many activities to try out. A complete list can be found at curtisorchard.com but two popular activities are the corn maze and “U-pick”. The corn maze can be found at the southern end of the compound. For most available activities there are tokens that are accepted for entry. These tokens can be purchased from a booth also at the southern end of the farm.
“U-pick” is a term that can apply to a few activities at Curtis Orchard. Most notably, “U-pick apples” are what many come to Curtis Orchard to experience. For $7, or $6 with a group of 5 or more, you can enter the orchard and pick a quarter peck of any apples in season. Available apple types can be found online and will be posted in the store daily. With the admission purchase you can walk the orchard until 6:00 pm, the time the farm closes.
Curtis Orchard believes in its family-friendly atmosphere but also believes in bringing our community together. Rachel Coventry explained that throughout September and October every Saturday a festival will be held. Along with enjoying the available treats, you can enjoy live entertainment outside of the country store.
Curtis Orchard is a great place to spend an afternoon and could be where you find your next job. On the front door of the country store, the orchard displays its Leaders in Employing All People (LEAP) status and encourages anyone to apply. Curtis Orchard offers seasonal employment that allows for flexible availability and is still hiring for this season. In reference to her experience Parkland student and Curtis Orchard Cashier Olivia Moline said, “Working at Curtis Orchard for one season is an experience everyone should have!” To apply, check out curtisorchard.com for more information. Curtis Orchard will be open from now through October 31st from 9am-6pm Monday through Saturday and 11am-6pm on Sundays. From November 1st through December 23rd the orchard will close an hour earlier. For more information check out curtisorchard.com or call 217-395-5565.
