Fall in Metro Detroit isn’t just a season. It’s a ritual built around crisp air, weekend drives, and the holy trinity: cider, donuts, and u-pick apples. This guide maps every major cider mill and orchard across Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, Washtenaw, and Livingston Counties so families and die-hards can plan smart. Expect honest, on-the-ground details that make days easier, crowd patterns, what’s kid-friendly, pet notes, and where to park. Bookmark it, share it, and build your route.
Alber Orchard & Cider Mill LLC, Facebook
Alber Orchard & Cider Mill
Open: September 3, 2025; closing date varies by season
13011 Bethel Church Rd, Manchester, MI 48158
Phone: (734) 428-9310
Website: Alber Orchard & Cider Mill
A heritage-rich spot known for heirloom varieties and small-batch cider that tastes like fall in a cup. Families love the relaxed country setting, easy parking, and low-key pace compared with the bigger destinations. Donuts are fried fresh, and the market usually stocks multiple apple varieties for baking and snacking. Check the farm’s updates for u-pick availability and weekend extras before you go.
Apple Charlie’s South Huron Orchards & Cider Mill
Open: Early September through late October typical
38035 S Huron Rd, New Boston, MI 48164
Phone: (734) 753-9380
Website: Apple Charlie’s South Huron Orchards & Cider Mill
Downriver’s classic fall hangout balances u-pick, a petting area, and plenty of photo-friendly nooks. Expect a casual, kid-forward scene with peak traffic on sunny weekend afternoons. Early arrivals see the shortest donut and cider lines, and the grounds are easy to navigate with strollers. Watch social for day-of crop and activity updates.
Love U-pick beyond apples? Save our guide to the best U-pick farms around Metro Detroit.
Big Red Orchard
Open: September 4, 2025
4900 32 Mile Rd, Washington, MI 48095
Phone: (586) 752-7888
Website: Big Red Orchard
One of the region’s oldest orchards blends u-pick, a lively farm market, and a family-friendly vibe. Fresh-pressed cider pairs with warm donuts, seasonal events, and simple activities for younger kids. The on-site bar adds adult-friendly options for weekend groups. Arrive earlier on fall Saturdays to avoid parking congestion.
Blake’s Lyon Township
Open: September 6, 2025
61475 Silver Lake Rd, South Lyon, MI 48178
Phone: (248) 437-0150
Website: Blake’s Lyon Township
A compact Blake’s location that delivers the cider-and-donuts essentials without Armada-size crowds. Families appreciate the easy layout, stroller-friendly grounds, and quick access from the west side. Expect a cider garden feel, occasional food trucks, and a steady weekend hum. Verify u-pick status and varieties before you drive.
Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill
Open: Late August to October
17985 Armada Center Rd, Armada, MI 48005
Phone: (586) 784-5343
Website: Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill
Metro Detroit’s flagship fall destination features multiple u-pick fields, a full restaurant, and a hard-cider tasting room. The experience feels like a festival on peak weekends, with hayrides, markets, and photo spots throughout. Morning arrivals make parking and lines far easier, especially with small kids. Build in extra time if you plan to explore more than one area of the farm.
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Dexter Cider Mill, Facebook
Dexter Cider Mill
Open: Late August through November
3685 Central St, Dexter, MI 48130
Phone: (734) 426-8531
Website: Dexter Cider Mill
Michigan’s oldest continuously operating cider mill offers river views, traditional pressing, and a cozy, historic feel. Donuts and caramel apples are staples, and the market rotates through classic apple varieties. Lines grow steadily after late morning on weekends, so plan an early stop. Bring a cooler if you’re pairing this with a longer Huron River day.
Diehl’s Orchard & Cider Mill
Open: Late August through November
1479 Ranch Rd, Holly, MI 48442
Phone: (248) 634-8981
Website: Diehl’s Orchard & Cider Mill
A low-key, family-run favorite known for fresh donuts, cider slushies, and straightforward fall fun. The layout is simple, making it an easy in-and-out stop for snacks and a few photos. Families often pair Diehl’s with nearby parks or other Oakland County u-picks. Check the calendar for pony rides and weekend activities when in season.
Franklin Cider Mill
Open: Aug 30 - Nov 30
7450 Franklin Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301
Phone: (248) 626-8261
Website: Franklin Cider Mill
An iconic Birmingham–Bloomfield tradition with a historic press, classic cinnamon-sugar donuts, and a river-adjacent setting. Crowds build quickly on warm afternoons, and street parking fills fast. Mornings deliver the most relaxed experience and the quickest service. It’s a perfect stop before or after exploring downtown Birmingham.
Goodison Cider Mill, Facebook
Goodison Cider Mill
Open: Labor Day through end of November
4295 Orion Rd, Rochester, MI 48306
Phone: (248) 652-8450
Website: Goodison Cider Mill
Old-school charm meets neighborhood convenience at this Rochester-area standby. Fresh cider and warm donuts headline, but the cult-favorite pistachio bread is the sleeper hit. The location is ideal for pairing with a walk or ride along Paint Creek Trail. Quick stops work well here when you’re stacking multiple mills in one loop.
Hy’s Cider Mill
Open: Weekends only in September and October
6350 37 Mile Rd, Bruce Township, MI 48065
Phone: (810) 798-3611
Website: Hy’s Cider Mill
A true weekend u-pick that keeps things friendly, simple, and focused on apples. Tractor-drawn rides and straightforward pricing make the experience easy for first-timers. Expect the best selection earlier in the day and lighter crowds in cooler weather. Pack a tote and plan a quick market stop for donuts on your way out.
Jenny’s Farm Stand & Cider Mill
Open: Late August into fall
8366 Island Lake Rd, Dexter, MI 48130
Phone: (734) 424-3431
Website: Jenny’s Farm Stand & Cider Mill
Farm-stand ease meets fall favorites with cider, donuts, pumpkins, and hayrides when the season peaks. The grounds are approachable for young families, with simple activities and straightforward parking. Weekday mornings are calm if you prefer a quick snack run over a long outing. Field trips and groups are common, so timing matters for shorter lines.
Long Family Orchard, Farm & Cider Mill
Open: Cider Mill and Fun Farm open September 6 through October
1540 E Commerce Rd, Commerce Twp, MI 48382
Phone: (248) 360-3774
Website: Long Family Orchard, Farm & Cider Mill
A Commerce Township staple that combines a market, corn maze, and a lively “Fun Farm” area. Fresh-pressed cider and warm donuts anchor the food lineup, with pumpkins and decor rounding things out. The property is spacious, and parking is generally easy even on busy days. Expect a classic family-fall atmosphere that works for half-day visits.
Planning pumpkins and hayrides too? Here are the best orchards and pumpkin patches in Metro Detroit.
Parmenter’s Northville Cider Mill
Open: Aug 23–Nov 23
714 Baseline Rd, Northville, MI 48167
Phone: (248) 349-3181
Website: Parmenter’s Northville Cider Mill
A riverfront mill with downtown Northville charm and neighboring winery-and-brewery options for adults. The donuts and cider are the main draw, but families also enjoy the ducks and small play areas. Lines move fastest in the morning and on cooler weekdays. It’s an easy add to a Northville shopping or dinner itinerary.
Parshallville Cider Mill
Open: Labor Day weekend through mid-November
8507 Parshallville Rd, Fenton, MI 48430
Phone: (810) 629-9079
Website: Parshallville Cider Mill
Historic ambiance, creek-side scenery, and fresh-baked treats create a nostalgic fall stop. The pace is relaxed compared with larger attractions, which many families prefer. Live music days and special events add variety to the season. Check detours and parking notes in advance if there’s nearby road work.
Plymouth Orchards & Cider Mill
Open: Cider Mill August 30–November 9 | Red Shed Market August 30–November 26
10685 Warren Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: (734) 455-2290
Website: Plymouth Orchards & Cider Mill
A beloved west-side destination with wagon rides, farm animals, and a market that leans organic. Watch cider pressing through the windows, then grab warm donuts and pies for the road. The Red Shed Market extends options and can shorten waits on peak days. Paths are stroller-friendly, and the layout is easy to navigate.
Rochester Cider Mill
Open: Labor Day through New Year’s Eve
5125 N Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48306
Phone: (248) 651-4224
Website: Rochester Cider Mill
A friendly, family-run spot with animals to visit, a straw pyramid, and a wide array of Michigan apples. The setup is great for quick donut-and-cider breaks between other Oakland County stops. Parking is straightforward, though weekend afternoons can stack up. Plan a morning or early afternoon visit for the smoothest experience.
spicerorchards, instagram
Spicer Orchards
Open: Mid-September through October
10411 Clyde Rd, Fenton, MI 48430
Phone: (810) 632-7692
Website: Spicer Orchards
Livingston County’s heavy hitter blends a full winery, broad u-pick schedule, and a bustling bakery. Weekends feel festive, with hayrides, kids’ areas, and live activity across the grounds. Donuts are a must, and the market carries plenty for bakers and snackers alike. Arrive early for parking and to beat the midday rush.
Stony Creek Orchard & Cider Mill
Open: September 12 (Weekend Only)
2961 32 Mile Rd, Bruce Twp, MI 48065
Phone: (586) 752-2453
Website: Stony Creek Orchard & Cider Mill
A straightforward u-pick with clear pricing, friendly staff, and a tidy market. Weekends bring the orchard experience, while weekdays are mellow for cider runs. Expect easy parking and a family-first vibe without the frills. Check the u-pick board for varieties and quantities before heading into the rows.
Three Cedars Farm
Open: August 29, 2025
7897 Six Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48168
Phone: (248) 437-8200
Website: Three Cedars Farm
A kid magnet with a giant corn maze, hayrides, and a dedicated Cider & Donut Hut. The atmosphere leans playful and high-energy, especially on sunny weekends. Parking is ample but fills fast around midday. Early arrivals score the shortest lines and the warmest donuts.
Verellen Orchards & Cider Mill
Open: Late August through October
63260 Van Dyke, Washington, MI 48095
Phone: (586) 752-2989
Website: Verellen Orchards & Cider Mill
A year-round market known for consistency, early opening hours, and a wide selection of baked goods. Seasonal u-pick rotates crops, with fall apples and pumpkins in the mix. Families appreciate the efficient service and straightforward setup. Note any on-site pet policies before bringing furry friends.
Wasem Fruit Farm, Facebook
Wasem Fruit Farm
Open: Mid-September through October
6580 Judd Rd, Milan, MI 48160
Phone: (734) 482-2342
Website: Wasem Fruit Farm
A u-pick favorite that posts schedules close to ripening for apples and other crops. Donuts and cider hit the spot, and the market often features multiple baking varieties. Fridays and early weekend hours are best for lighter lines. Bring cash as backup and watch for last-minute updates.
Westview Orchards & Winery
Open: Early September through October
65075 Van Dyke, Washington, MI 48095
Phone: (586) 752-3123
Website: Westview Orchards & Winery
Six generations of farming translate into a deep fall lineup of wagon rides, petting areas, and market goods. Adults can relax on the winery porch while kids explore the activity zones. The property is smoke-free, and rules are clearly posted for a smooth visit. Plan to linger, because there’s plenty to do on site.
Wiard’s Orchards & Country Fair
Open: Country Store Sept 2 | Country Fair Sept 6–7
5565 Merritt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Phone: (734) 482-7744
Website: Wiard’s Orchards & Country Fair
Part orchard, part amusement-style fall fair with rides, games, u-pick, and evening haunted attractions. Tickets can sell quickly on peak weekends, so buy ahead when possible. Families can opt for a quick store run on weekdays to avoid crowds. The variety makes it an easy one-stop fall outing for mixed-age groups.
Yates Cider Mill
Open: August 31, 2025
1950 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Phone: (248) 651-8300
Website: Yates Cider Mill
Riverside trails, a water-powered press, and one of Michigan’s most famous donuts make Yates a must. Expect evening crowds thanks to extended hours. Parking spills to the sides on peak weekends; plan a short walk or arrive early.
Want an even deeper dive into local mills? Read our Ultimate Guide to Metro Detroit Cider Mills.
For families with strollers, look for compact layouts and defined play areas like Three Cedars, Parmenter’s, and Westview. If you want the full u-pick experience, prioritize Blake’s Armada, Hy’s on weekends, Spicer, Stony Creek, and Long Family. For heritage vibes, Dexter, Franklin, Parshallville, and Yates deliver history with your cider. To avoid lines, aim for weekday mornings, or arrive within the first hour on weekends.
Metro Detroit cider mills are more than fall snacks. They anchor neighborhoods, weekend traditions, and the way families explore the region. Save this guide, map your loop, and enjoy the season. If you want help choosing a neighborhood close to your favorite mills, or a move that fits your school, commute, and lifestyle, reach out for hyper-local guidance from a trusted Metro Detroit real estate expert.
For location and Directions, please see the interactive map below
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