TRAVEL & Recreation

Cider MILLS OF MICHIGAN

5 Great places to visit this fall

By Robere | Publisher | Style Editor

When I think of fall, I tend to immediately think of Halloween and apple cider, warm donuts and warm clothes. For this season we are focusing five local cider mills. As you may or may not know Michigan hosts several amazing orchards and mills, some that date back as far as 1862. While researching the cider mill industry, I discovered that Michigan is third in the entire country for apple production, behind Washington State (of course) and New York State.

Michigan has close to twenty orchards and mills in the area and some of the oldest in the country. Apple production is the key to making great cider, I learned that at the beginning of the season the cider tends to more clear and tart, but as the apples ripen the cider becomes darker and sweeter.

So as you travel on your weekend excursion to check out beautiful fall colors be sure to drop by one these or other great mills where some allow you to pick your apples or visit the gift shops and restaurants for flavorful homemade donuts pastries and pies!

Franklin Cider mill is on of the oldest in the state of Michigan. Originally constructed in 1832 by W. Matthews and after financial difficulties the mill was finally completed in 1837 under a new owner Peter VanEvery. The mill was sold several times over the next decade until 1918 when it was turned into a cider mill. In 1966 the mill was purchased by the current owners the Peltz family who still run the operation today.

Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill

Family owned Blake Farms is located in Armada, MI. Established in 1946 is one the largest full service mills in the area. One of the first orchards to have U-Pick opportunities, this amazing complex has a full on commitment to excellence, a friendly and engaging staff, and high quality products and produce. This location has three separate offerings; Blake’s Cider Mill, Blake’s Big Apple, and Blake’s Garden Center all with great amenities and loads of fun and family friendly things to do. Check the many events offerings on their website @ www.blakefarms.com

yates cider mill

Located in beautiful Rochester Michigan this historic mill was established in 1863, making Yates Grist Mill one of the longest continuing mills in existence today. In 1876 the mill installed it’s first cider press and thus becoming known as Yates Cider Mill. Harvesting the best apples and processing 100% pure cider is their trademark! Visit this local gem for tour and other activities @ Yatescidermill.com .

ross’s stony creek orchard & cider mill

Family owned since 1939 - Ross’s Stony Creek Mill is cornucopia of fun activities; from the cider press to midnight hayrides Stony’s has it all. Fall is that special time for warn donuts and fresh apple cider. Visit Stony’s picnic area, straw bales! Pick your own apples, pumpkins and raspberries as the season allows. Check this amazing mill for a full family outing experience @ www.stonycreekorchard.com

dexter cider mill

The Dexter Cider Mill has the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating mills in Michigan. Located in Dexter Michigan this family owned and operated facility has become a go to for the fresh cider (oak) pressed and wonderful atmosphere. On special occasions you may hear and see local: artists, crafters. musicians, farm stands, and restaurants so check back often during the season for all of the special offerings you will find here @ dextercidermill.com.

Images courtesy of dextercidermill.com