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The Time is Ripe! Apple Picking in Ann Arbor

Autumn is just around the corner. On Monday, the 23rd of September, summer officially gives way to fall with the arrival of the 2019 autumnal equinox. Fall begins, and the transition leads us gradually to darker days until we max out at the winter solstice.

But right now, it's time to think about fall and the awesome ways to welcome the wonderful season.

Ann Arbor's Fall Bounty

Ann Arbor provides one of America's most magnificent fall bounties. Traveling along Huron River Drive offers a stunning seasonal display of fall color, all beautifully reflected upon the majestic Huron. Autumn in Ann Arbor means it's time to prepare for fun fall festivities. It doesn't get more exciting once football season kicks into high gear in Michigan.

Not least of all, it's harvest time at Ann Arbor's local apple orchards.

Harvest Time!

Now is the time. It's a great chance to visit the natural beauty of Michigan's abundant farms. The state's orchards produce a bounty of crisp honey-sweet apples. The good news is, some orchards offer "U-Pick" apple harvesting (grab your basket!) and provide demonstrations of their cider mills in action. Plus, most orchards offer tastes of the yearly crop and the cider crush. Even better, they're located just outside of Ann Arbor, barely 30 miles away.

Did you know the apple blossom is Michigan's state flower? With that in mind, here are two local apple farms we recommend.

Alber Orchard & Cider Mill

Alber Orchard & Cider Mill is a historical farm setting on land originally deeded in 1832 by President Andrew Jackson. Today, Mike and Theresa Bossory own and operate the orchard. Their farm boasts more than 50 varieties of apples! Many are exclusive heirloom varieties no longer available at supermarkets. But if you visit, not only can you taste sweet and crunchy samples, you can also pick from the latest crops and take them home by the bushel.

Also available for tasting is their fresh cider made of carefully selected heirloom and traditional varieties. According to Alber Orchards, it's a unique and exceptionally delicious cider blend.

For fun, the orchard offers a sprawling 7-acre corn maze as well as tractor-pulled hayrides. Admission to the maze is $6, and the hayride is $3.

Additionally, Alber Orchards provides a gorgeous setting for any special event.

The Details:

Alber Orchard & Cider Mill

Wiard's Cider Mill and Apple Orchard

Wiard's Cider Mill and Apple Orchard is a seventh-generation family-operated farm. It was founded in 1837, the same year Michigan gained statehood. In fact, Wiard's provided apples and cider vinegar to troops during the Civil War. Today, they provide the public an opportunity to wander the orchard and pick apples to one's heart's content. A 180-year-old cider mill in action is also a must-see attraction. Samples of Wiard's traditional family recipe are available! This year, Wiard's offers the following apple varieties:

  • McIntosh
  • Jonathan
  • Empire
  • Red Delicious
  • Golden Delicious
  • Fuji
  • Cameo
  • Ruby Jon

Wirard's also offers a "U-Pick" pumpkin patch, a corn maze, and hayrides. Starting on September 7, a weekend-only Country Fair commences. Carnival rides, a petting farm, mini-golf, the Haunted Barn, pony rides, and giant inflatables will be on hand. Admission is $18.75 per person.

The Details:

Wiard's Cider Mill and Apple Orchard

If you are new to the Ann Arbor area and interested in making the splendor of The George your exclusive apartment home, please contact us for further details. Find out about all Ann Arbor has to offer!