Sep 5, 2025 - Things to Do
Cider mills, fall fests and where to find them
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Illustration: Maura Losch, Lindsey Bailey/Axios
It's past Labor Day weekend, meaning we feel summer ending and look to fill our autumn days with good times.
Why it matters: Fall in Metro Detroit is very choose-your-own-adventure, with events ranging from the classic apple picking, cider drinking and doughnut testing to food truck rallies and leaf-peeping.
🍎 First, classic cider mill fare:
- Yates Cider Mill: Some say this spot in Rochester Hills has the most flavorful doughnuts. We'll let you decide — regardless, it's a prime location for a stroll with snacks like fresh apples, apple fritters and ice cream, as it connects to scenic trails along the Clinton River.
- Franklin Cider Mill: Watch the cider-making and doughnut-making processes in Bloomfield Hills. Plus, enjoy music, fresh corn, a market and a scenic picnic by a river.
- Parmenter's Northville Cider Mill: Grab hot dogs and kielbasa for lunch at this 150-year-old spot, along with the traditional cider and doughnuts. There's also a winery and brewery with food trucks.
- Blake's Orchard and Cider Mill: This multilocation orchard empire has everything from baked goods and hard cider to rides and haunted attractions — but it's also notable for allowing patrons to pick their own produce. U-Pick options and locations are listed on its website.
- Westview Orchards and Winery: Another great option for U-Pick apples in Macomb County — also with baked goods, a corn maze and kids activities.
🎉 Plus, it's still festival season:
- Pumpkin Festival: Romulus hosts its 27th annual party dedicated to everyone's favorite squash Sept. 19-21, with a parade, crafts, food and music.
- Fire & Flannel Fest: Who doesn't love a good fall flannel outfit? Don yours and trek to Wyandotte Sept. 26-27 for lumberjack shows, chainsaw carving, axe throwing, glass blowing and fire performances.
- Stone Wall Pumpkin Festival: Go pumpkin bowling and shop craft vendors in Rochester Hills on Oct. 11.
- Detroit Harvest Fest: Join the grand opening of Wilson Centennial Park alongside usual Harvest Fest fare with food trucks and activities Oct. 25-26.
🎃 We'll feature more spooky season events later this fall, like haunted houses and themed cocktail bars.
Go deeper: Where to stroll to see fall colors in Metro Detroit