Are you ready to plan the ultimate autumn adventure here in the Great Lakes State? Whether you prefer to spend your time exploring with the entire family or making memories with your sweetheart, there’s nothing lovelier than loading up the car and heading out for a scenic, fun-filled fall excursion. If apple picking and foliage are some of your favorite things, then come along as we enjoy one of the best fall getaways in Michigan!
This delightful fall adventure will take you to the Traverse City area.
The Traverse City area is known for beauty and relaxation in all seasons but is especially loaded with splendor when fall rolls around. Get ready to be enchanted!
When it comes to lodging, there are loads of options.
But we recommend checking out the Ellis Lake Resort. This year-round treasure is about 20 minutes from downtown Traverse City, it is loaded with charm, and is one of the best places to stay in Michigan.
Situated just off US-31, the resort offers a great place to check in and tune out the noise of everyday life.
Upon arriving, you’ll settle into one of several rustic yet comfortable log cabins along Ellis Lake itself, a truly gorgeous Michigan lake.
If you’re checking in during the evening, spend time exploring the grounds before snagging dinner in Traverse City or nearby.
The resort boasts hiking trails, outdoor games, boat rentals, and more.
Rest up for the next day of your trip, as you’ll want to rise bright and early to enjoy some fall festivities.
Next on your docket is a journey to Rennie Orchards, which sits in Williamsburg and offers U-pick apples galore.
Upon arriving at Rennie Orchards, you’ll feel like you’re embracing a slice of the simple life.
There are a whopping 19 apple varieties to select from at this beautiful Michigan farm, so take time to select your favorite options as you stroll.
U-pick apple season typically continues through October, with an occasional dip into November.
From Honeycrisp to golden delicious, there’s so much to choose from on your beautiful autumn adventure, making it one of the best weekend getaways in October.
When you’re through loading up on apples, do some exploring in Traverse City before heading back to your cabin for the evening.
We can’t imagine a more wonderful way to embrace fall in the Great Lakes State.
If you were to do a search for “weekend fall getaways near me,” this spot would most certainly pop up at the top of the list! You can check cabin rates and availability by heading to the Ellis Lake Resort website, and explore up-to-date U-pick information via the Rennie Orchards Facebook page.
Have you checked out either of these utterly magnificent Northern Michigan destinations during previous excursions? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend your top picks for a fall weekend getaway in Michigan by completing our nomination form.
Searching for another adventure? Read about this scenic and historic rail trail in Michigan. And if If you'd like to enjoy a weekend getaway in an RV but don't have one, visit RVShare.
If you’re still in the mood for more Michigan adventures, take a look at this video:
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