The arrival of autumn is a magical time in Metro Detroit. Leaves begin to change colors, the air is crisp with changing temperatures, and harvest season makes its appearance with full force. While the tricks and treats of Halloween are one major draw during the fall, other Detroiters are particularly fond of less spooky activities - and these seven fantastic cider and donut mills will get you ready for the new season.

1. Franklin Cider Mill

If you’re a fan of both history and fall traditions, Franklin Cider Mill will easily capture your heart. Located in Bloomfield Hills, this unique spot was constructed in 1837 as a grist mill. While ownership changed multiple times during its early years, the mill has now remained in the same family since the 1960s. Delicious cider is pressed and bottled right on site - you can even catch a glimpse of this process for yourself. Its tasty donuts are also homemade. What’s not to adore?

2. Parmenter’s Northville Cider Mill

Make your way to the city of Northville for a picturesque fall day at Parmenter’s, which was established in 1873. This welcoming destination is so much more than a traditional cider mill: it’s also home to the Nut Hut (which sells candied almonds), the Chow Mill (home to kielbasa and hot dogs), and more. Whether you’re picking up a dozen donuts or indulging in an apple pie, this spot will take your taste buds on a journey.

3. Yates Cider Mill

For many Metro Detroiters, making the journey to Yates is a real fall tradition. It’s easy to understand why, as this timeless gem in Rochester is full to the brim with goodies and family attractions galore. Watch the water wheel as it uses power from the Clinton River, sip fresh apple cider as you appreciate the serene autumn surroundings, or take home a few canned goods for future use. You’ll be back time and time again.

4. Diehl’s Orchard and Cider Mill

For a lovely, low-key orchard and cider mill experience, it’s difficult to beat Diehl’s. Located in the small town of Holly, this spot has drawn in visitors for more than 60 years. With a family-oriented atmosphere and loads of products to choose from, it’s hard to head home empty-handed when you stop in and spend an afternoon here. Make your way through the on-site corn maze, explore the orchards on foot, take a hayride, and round it all out with an apple cider slushie. Is there anything better?

5. Long Family Orchard & Cider Mill

Head to the community of Commerce for an autumn adventure at Long Family Orchard, Farm, & Cider Mill. Visitors of all ages will be enchanted by the assortment of exciting activities that await here, whether you’re hoping to interact with farm animals, settle in for a family picnic, or pick up some fresh produce. Of course, you’ll also find plenty of cider, apples, and treats to go around - so add this spot to your itinerary.

6. Dexter Cider Mill

We’ve been known to sing the praises of Dexter in previous articles, and its cider mill only adds to the small town’s charm. Tucked away along the banks of the Huron River, this unforgettable destination offers visitors the chance to take a step back in time as they check out the working mill, dig into fresh-baked donuts, and warm up with hot cider along the river. As the oldest continuously operating cider mill in Michigan and the site of so many timeless memories, Dexter Cider Mill truly stands out in its field.

7. Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill

Hop in the car and drive to the community of Armada for a jam-packed day at Blake’s, which seems to appear out of nowhere among the surrounding farmland. No matter how you like to celebrate autumn, you’ll find a way to do it here: after all, Blake’s is home to everything from U-Pick produce to an on-site taproom to play structures for the kids. There’s always a special event or attraction ready to be discovered here, and it’s easy to understand why so many locals consider this a favorite place to visit.

Did we leave any of your favorite cider or donut mills off the list? Which of these have you explored in years past? Share your experiences and autumn photos with us by leaving a Facebook comment or make an official recommendation for your favorite fall locale in Metro Detroit by filling out our nomination form here.

Ready for a virtual journey back in time? You'll want to check out these amazing vintage photos from Detroit.