A Fall Michigan Getaway to an Apple Orchard or Berry Farm
Tasty Michigan apples and other fruit are harvested in the fall season. Throughout the seasons, including the fall, many orchards and farms in Michigan give visitors the opportunity to pick their own fruit. This activity can make for a great weekend activity or fun family getaway. Young children especially enjoy picking their own fruit. Other fruits and vegetables one may opt to pick include pumpkins, peaches, blueberries, raspberries and corn.
Pick Your Own Fruits and Vegetables in Southwest Michigan
Steffens Orchard Market in the Greater Grand Rapids Area offers several activities for a fun filled weekend at the orchard. Families can pick apples or pumpkins, tour the orchards or build their own scarecrow. The orchard is open in the fall until after Halloween. The orchard can be easily accessed off of highway M-37 in Sparta.
Pick Your Own Fruits and Vegetables in Southeast Michigan
Miller’s Big Red Apple Orchard is just a short drive from Detroit. Although they offer many products for sale, they also have a time in which customers can come and pick their own fruit or vegetables. During the fall season one can opt to pick apples, pumpkins or raspberries. In addition to picking fruit, families can enjoy a petting farm, hayrides, an ice cream shop, corn maze and other outdoor fun.
Makielski Farm in Ypsilanti specializes in berries. In the fall one can pick raspberries, pumpkins and squash. The farm also produces honey and is a relaxing and comfortable place for picking.
Pick Your Own Fruits and Vegetables in Central Michigan
Almar Orchards in Flushing (around the Saginaw/Flint area) is a great place to visit even in the late fall. Only apples are available for picking; nonetheless, the entire family will find lots of things to do on the farm. Some activities include a petting zoo, wagon rides and tasty treats such as hot cider and donuts.
Before visiting any orchard or farm, be sure to call ahead for days/times and to ensure that the fields are okay for picking. Some other questions to ask include:
Does the farm provide containers for picking or does the family need to bring their own?
Is an appointment necessary? In cases of large families or groups, appointments may be required.
What is the cost?
Lastly, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and older clothing as staining might occur (especially when picking berries). Dressing in layers is also wise as the weather in Michigan changes quickly.
These orchards and farms just represent a few places where one can pick their own fruit. Most are open in the fall through late October or early November.