Whether you adore autumn or not, it’s tough to deny that Michigan comes to life during this one-of-a-kind season. We’re lucky to live in a state that so beautifully celebrates fall, and there are plenty of ways to guarantee that you enjoy every last moment of this time of year. Here are 11 of our favorites:
1. Get out there and pick some apples.
Michigan is overflowing with apple orchards, and nothing hits the spot on a crisp fall day quite like a sweet apple selected by hand. Whether you check out Crane’s in Fennville, Clearview in Haslett, or Hoxsie’s in East Williamsburg, you’re sure to leave with more fresh fruit than you know what to do with!
2. Check out the fall colors along the Tunnel of Trees.
If you’ve never driven through the Tunnel of Trees, you’re certainly in for a treat this fall. Hop in the car and make this trip on M-119 between Harbor Springs and Cross Village, which will lead you through seemingly endless fall foliage and alongsidge gorgeous lakefront bluffs. This is fall in Michigan at its finest.
3. Take a drive through the Upper Peninsula.
Of course, you’d need months to truly experience all that the Upper Peninsula has to offer, but there are a few destinations that should certainly be added to your U.P. autumn bucket list. Check out the fall colors at Tahquamenon Falls, enjoy a trek along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, or simply marvel at the shorelines of Lake Superior as they bloom with color.
4. Visit a cider mill or two.
Who doesn't love a good cup of hot apple cider? When it’s autumn in Michigan, nothing says comfort like the familiar tastes, smells, and sights of a cider mill. Whether you check out the historical attractions of Yates Cider Mill or explore a smaller spot in your hometown, this is a must-do fall activity in the Great Lakes State.
5. Head to the pumpkin patch with your loved ones.
It’s nearly Halloween, and you know what that means: it’s jack-o-lantern season! Here in Michigan, we take this spooky holiday pretty seriously — so be sure to head out and grab a pumpkin or two before decorating your home for the month of October. We recommend checking out Johnson's Giant Pumpkins in Saginaw when you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind pumpkin patch experience that’s sure to charm the entire family.
6. Stroll along the beach on a chilly day.
Anyone who says Michigan’s beaches are only beautiful during the summer months is just plain wrong. There’s something truly breathtaking about bundling up and strolling along the shoreline as chilly waves crash at your feet. If you’re really looking for a fall adventure, grab a cup of coffee or tea and catch the sunset over Lake Michigan with your loved ones — there’s nothing more magical.
7. Watch the Lions play… win or lose.
Fall is football season, whether our team is winning or not. As Detroit Lions fans, many Michiganders know the familiar feeling of disappointment that seems to accompany all too many Sunday games. But that’s never stopped us from heading out to Ford Field or tuning in to see how the boys in blue play. It’s tough to imagine fall in Michigan without the Lions.
8. Explore a harvest festival or two.
Looking to get out there and enjoy mingling with neighbors, new friends, and loved ones? Then you’ll want to check out a few harvest festivals, which seem to pop up all over the place during autumn. You’ll have a blast at any of the festivals you decide to explore, from Frankenmuth’s Scarecrow Fest to Tecumseh’s Appleumpkin Festival.
9. Get spooked at a haunted corn maze.
What’s fall without a few spooks and scares? Here in Michigan, we’ve got plenty of haunted attractions to check out when the weather cools off and Halloween is in the air. For the ultimate adventure, make your way through a haunted corn maze and see how long you can last without screaming bloody murder. If you’re feeling brave, check out the haunted attractions (including a corn maze) at Niles Scream Park in the town of Niles.
10. Sip on a few brews at an Oktoberfest celebration.
If apple cider just isn’t cutting it for you, why not sip on something even better with a visit to one of our state’s many Oktoberfest celebrations? Venture to Detroit for the Dakota Inn Oktoberfest, make your way to Pentwater for their yearly celebration, or check out Lansing’s annual Brewtoberfest Celebration on October 14th. The beer (and the fun) is sure to be flowing.
11. Jump in the leaves, no matter what your age.
This one is a no-brainer. When fall rolls around, nothing is more wholesome and fun than jumping into a pile of freshly raked leaves. It doesn’t matter how old you are — this is one autumn tradition that just can’t be forgotten.
Did we leave any of your favorite fall traditions in Michigan off our list? How do you plan to make the most of the season here in the Great Lakes State? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
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