Visiting a cider mill is a time-honored Michigan tradition and a great way to get outdoors, especially as the leaves begin to change color. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your cider mill experience.
When to visit
- Peak Season: Late September to October is prime apple-picking season. This is also the busiest time, especially on weekends.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and long lines.
Top cider mills in metro Detroit
Yates Cider Mill (Rochester Hills): One of the oldest continuously operating cider mills in the US. Features a river walk, horse-drawn wagon rides, and a petting zoo.
Franklin Cider Mill (Bloomfield Hills): Known for its historic charm and delicious cinnamon-spiced doughnuts.
Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill (Armada): Offers a variety of activities including apple picking, hayrides, a cornfield maze, and a haunted attraction.
Parmenter’s Northville Cider Mill (Northville): Features a vintage vibe with tasty cider, doughnuts, and local craft beers. Celebrating 150 years.
Plymouth Orchards & Cider Mill (Plymouth): Offers organic apple varieties and a working farm atmosphere. They also provide wagon rides and host seasonal events, perfect for families.
Diehl’s Orchard & Cider Mill (Holly): A family-owned mill that’s been around for 60 years. Popular for its cider, doughnuts, and annual Ciderfest which features fun activities and races.
Goodison Cider Mill (Rochester): A smaller, quaint mill known for its delicious cider and caramel apples. Perfect for a quieter visit.
Westview Orchards & Winery (Washington Township): A blend of cider mill and winery, this spot offers apple picking, a winery with tasting rooms, and a massive kids’ play area complete with a petting farm.
Rochester Cider Mill (Rochester): Known for their old-fashioned cider pressing methods and caramel apples, it offers a pure rustic experience
Hy’s Cider Mill (Romeo): Operational only during the fall season, it offers dedicated dates to pick specific apple varieties.
Three Cedars Farm (Northville): Beyond just cider and doughnuts, this mill provides a complete family outing experience with hayrides, barnyard playland, and a country store.
Long Family Orchard, Farm & Cider Mill (Commerce Township): A perfect destination for apple picking, this orchard also offers a corn maze and pumpkin patch during the season.
Wiard’s Orchards & Country Fair (Ypsilanti): A combination of an orchard and country fair, they offer U-Pick apples, mini golf, a haunted barn, and even a night-time corn maze.
What to Do
- Tasting: Enjoy fresh apple cider – both cold and hot.
- Doughnut delight: Most mills offer freshly-made doughnuts. Popular choices include plain, sugar-coated, and cinnamon.
- Apple picking: Some mills offer U-Pick apple orchards where you can pick your own apples.
- Wagon/Hayrides: A fun, family-friendly activity, especially for the kids.
- Farm activities: Corn mazes, petting zoos, and pumpkin patches are common at many cider mills.
- Shopping: Many mills feature marketplaces with local crafts, baked goods, apple products, and more.
Tips for a Great Visit
- Arrive early: Especially during weekends, to avoid long lines.
- Dress accordingly: Autumn in Michigan can be chilly. Consider layering and wearing comfortable shoes.
- Cash is king: Some mills don’t accept cards, so carrying some cash with you is a good idea.
- Bring reusable Bags: If you’re planning to pick apples or shop at the marketplaces.
Beyond Cider
- Wine & Beer: Some mills, like Blake’s, have expanded into hard ciders, wines, and even craft beers.
- Local Produce: Many cider mills also sell seasonal produce such as pumpkins, gourds, and cornstalks.
Preservation
- Remember that cider mills often operate on lands that have been preserved for generations. Respect the property, don’t litter, and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Stay Updated
- Always check the cider mill’s website or social media before visiting. This ensures you’re aware of any special events or hours of operation.
Happy cider sipping!