Enjoying Michigan in the Fall

Fall is almost here! Soon mums, pumpkins and fall decorations will adorn people’s homes and porches, along with something else…leaves! Michigan is known to have beautiful fall colors popping up all over the state throughout late September and October. There are also so many great fall festivals, cider mills and other activities to enjoy. This article will help you to make the most of this colorful time of year with where to go and places to check out.

Fall Color Tours

Certain areas of Michigan reach their peak fall colors at certain times during this season. Find out when peak times are here with their regional guide. For example, most of southeastern Michigan peaks in early to mid October and northern Michigan is late September to mid October. There are even specific routes you can take that go through beautiful areas known for their great fall colors. Sometimes there are also scenic lookouts along the routes where you can stop to take in the view. Some of these routes can be enjoyed on foot, bike or in a car. Most fall color tour areas are near great cities like Petoskey, Traverse City, Port Huron and Grand Rapids. Turn your afternoon drive into a day or overnight trip and enjoy the amazing restaurants and quaint shops within these cities.

Michigan Fall Activities

For most Michiganders, going to the cider mill is a fall must, along with rejoicing the return of pumpkin spice lattes. Many families head out for a day at the cider mill, which normally include a kid’s play zone, petting farm, wagon rides and more. While others head out for the annual pumpkin picking, wine tasting and donut eating. You can stock up pies, sauces, jams and other baked goods while you are there as well. Some cider mills even have their own wine tasting room, where you can sample their wines, meads and hard ciders. There are numerous cider mills scattered throughout Michigan, here are some of our favorites:

Another fall tradition is the Michigan Renaissance Festival that takes place in Holly, Michigan. The Renaissance Festival takes place every year on Saturdays and Sundays from August 17 through September 29. This event attracts over 50,000 attendees annually from all over Michigan and the United States. There are so many things going on during this event that you might have to take several days to experience it all. They have several performing stages ranging from kid’s shows, comedy and music to drama throughout the area. Everything is themed from the Renaissance era including the workers, buildings and ambiance. Kids can enjoy themed play areas, petting farms and pony rides. The food at the Renaissance Festival includes many options including, turkey legs, soups in bread bowls, burgers, quesadillas, pizza, ice cream and more! You can even sign up for “Feasts of Fantasy,” which is a two hour event in the castle featuring a six-course gourmet meal, drinks and live entertainment. Drinks are also available throughout the festival at vendor stands and “pubs.” Take a look at their calendar to check out their theme weekends and when certain special events are taking place.

Don’t forget to lookup local fall festivals taking place in your neighborhood! Many schools, churches and communities host apple fests or other fall themed fairs and festivals. These festivals are filled with carnival rides, games, raffles, food, drinks and great times.

Posted on September 9th, 2013 in Michigan Events & Destinations.