A family farm since 1873.
Curtis Orchard is part of an Illinois centennial farm founded when the Curtis family settled just southwest of Champaign in 1873. For generations the land fed the family through corn, soybeans, and hogs, until Paul Curtis began imagining something different
One afternoon, savoring the satisfying crunch of an apple, the answer became clear. He'd transform this farm into a place where families could reconnect with the land and with each other. In 1977, Paul and Joyce planted 700 trees on three acres. They looked like sticks in the ground.
"When life gives you lemons you make lemonade - but when life gives you hail-damaged apples, you make apple cider."
— Paul Curtis, Summer of 1980
Today three generations of the Curtis and Graham families welcome visitors from across Illinois and around the world. Every message you send is read by the same family that planted those first 700 trees.
1873
1977
1980
1994
Today
The Farm Is Founded
Curtis family settles southwest of Champaign. Corn, soybeans, and open Illinois prairie.
700 Trees Planted
Paul & Joyce begin the orchard on three acres - the first step of a much bigger dream.
First Cider. First Season.
A hailstorm accidentally creates Curtis Orchard's most award-winning product.
Graham Family Joins
Randy & Debbie Graham become co-owners. The orchard grows into a true destination.
3rd Generation
A Graham child and their spouse join full-time. The tradition and the trees keep growing.
Orchard Hours
Jul 20–Sep 30
Mon–Sat 9–6
Sun 11–6
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Oct 1 – Oct 3
Mon – Sat 9–6
Sun 10–6
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Nov 1 – Dec 23
Mon–Sat 9–5
Sun 11–5
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Dec 24 – Jul 19
Closed (appt. only)
Flying Monkey Café
Aug 30 – Oct 31
Mon–Fri
11am – 2pm
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Sat–Sun
11am – 4pm
—— YOUR TURN
Start a Tradition
that lasts generations
150 years of family, faith, and fresh air - and it's all here waiting for you. Paul and Joyce Curtis began this orchard so families like yours could make memories in it. Now it's your turn.