McKenzie's Top 5 Cider Mills So Far

October 15, 2024

Is your favorite on the list?



Fall is here, and that means it's time to hit up the cider mills! Michigan is home to some of the best cider mills in the country, and I've had the pleasure of visiting many of them. Here are my top 5:


Leaman's Green Applebarn

Leaman's Green Applebarn located north in Freeland Michigan is more than just a cider mill. It's a family-friendly destination with a playground, corn maze, putt-putt golf, petting barnyard, and hayrides. But it's the cider sundae that truly sets Leaman's apart. A decadent combination of vanilla ice cream, cider slush, whipped cream, and caramel drizzle topped with a cider donut, it's the perfect fall treat. Leaman's carries your standard cider and donuts but they take it up a notch with a variety of unique offerings like almond joy cookies, pumpkin spice donuts, and s'mores cookies. I had a tough time narrowing down my choices because everything sounded so good. (I'll be back for you, Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls) Take a look at the photos below for a better idea on how vast their selection is!

Yates Cider Mill

As Michigan's oldest working water-powered mill, Yates Cider Mill, located in Rochester Hills, has been delighting visitors since 1863. The mill's water turbine, installed in 1894, is still in operation today, generating power to press their amazing apple cider. In addition to their delicious cider, Yates offers donuts, pies, turnovers, and jams. My grandma swears by their Dutch apple pie, claiming it's the best she's ever had in all of her 85 years! Definitely the most picturesque location on the list, you can enjoy cider and donuts at one of the many picnic tables on the property. After you've snagged your goodies take a walk behind the building and you will find a trailhead that offers scenic views of the Clinton River. Explore the branching trails for a leisurely fall stroll, while admiring the changing colors.

Past Tense Cider Mill

This location in Lapeer combines the cider mill experience with a huge gift shop, restaurant, and even haunted attractions after dark. The gift shop has multiple rooms dedicated to home decor, Halloween decorations, and Christmas decorations. Here, among the cider and donuts, you can find homemade chocolates and fudge. Not interested in sweets? Past Tense has a vast menu of sandwiches, salads, and unique pizzas in case you don't want to fill up on just the donuts.


Montrose Orchards

This no-frills spot gets straight to point by serving up incredible fall treats. Their apple cider donuts are my personal favorite. I always leave with a dozen at least. Give their pumpkin donuts a try too!

Spicers Orchards

Spicer's doesn't just serve up delicious homemade cider & donuts, they also serve an appetizer menu, hard ciders, wine, cocktails, and flight boards in their winery. On the weekends you can also find a variety of unique food vendors offering specialties like BBQ, tacos, loaded potatoes, and more! Once you're finished browsing all the goods, take a scenic ride around the orchards on their train or wagon ride.


Honorary Mention: Parshallville Cider Mill

Located in a small picturesque community, sitting on the banks of the North Ore Creek in Livingston County, this 136 year old mill is one of the few remaining water-powered mills in Michigan. The interior and exterior of the building really give off that old world charm. You can enjoy cider, spiced donuts, caramel apples, and homemade apple pies outside right by the creek. Just a short 5 minute drive from Spicer's make sure to include this gem on your list!

Do you have any recommendations on the next cider mill I should visit? Email me and let me know your favorites!

desk@behindyourdesign.com


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