Fall Days on the Farm in Michigan

Go picking in a pumpkin patch.

Nothing says autumn like biting into a fresh-picked apple or wandering pumpkin patch (and with children, a photo op is a must!). Find orchards and U-pick farms all over the state, like King Orchards where apple picking starts in early September and lasts for eight weeks. Check out these pumpkin patches on the Upper and Lower peninsulas. Once you’ve picked your favorite,  don’t miss out on other fun fall activities like tackling a corn maze and going on a hayride. A sip of apple cider is mandatory too.

Hold up, did you say apple cider?

We did, actually. Did you know that Michigan is the second-largest producer of apples in the country? There are more than 775 apple growers, millions of acres of orchards and some of the best apple cider you’ve ever had. Find our list of Michigan cideries here. If you like to spice things up, head to Pond Hill Farm for wine and beer in a farm-inspired setting, check out these hard ciders in, or try the Michigan Apple Committee’s recipe for Caramel Apple Rum Punch. 

Is your inner farmer bursting to get out?

Farm stays are all the rage. Where else can you enjoy the tranquility of being out in nature, help out with the harvest and dine on delicious food that comes from right outside your door? From country cottages to vineyard retreats, find your next overnight farm stay in Michigan.

Bring your shopping bag to the farmers market.

From city markets to rustic roadside stands, you can always find fresh produce in Michigan. This is the perfect time to pick up every variety of Michigan apples, plus artisan products like baked goods and homemade honey. Don’t overlook local pawpaws if you spot them – the season is fleeting for this deliciously sweet North American native fruit. Find local farmers markets right here.

Need more fall inspiration? Take an autumn stroll through a Michigan Trail Town, see fall foliage while on the go or paddle your way through Michigan’s rivers of color.