Northern Michigan Orchards and Farm Markets to Visit this Fall

One of the best ways to enjoy the fall season in Michigan is to visit a local farm market or orchard where you can fill up your basket with fresh picked apples, straight-from-the-tree cider and homemade donuts that are still warm. So put on your sweater, grab a pumpkin spice latte and take a drive to one of these Northern Michigan fall hot spots. 

Bill’s Farm Market in Petoskey has a history going back over 100 years. You’ll find fresh seasonal produce, fruits and of course pumpkins homegrown in their 29 fields. Homemade jams, jellies and maple syrup are just a few of the other locally made products you’ll find at the market. Get the full Michigan autumn experience when you take their 30 minute hayride that concludes with donuts, apple cider and a pumpkin souvenir to take home.

Coveyou Scenic Farm Market in Petoskey is a Michigan Centennial Farm owned by the same family for over 136 years. The farm grows their pumpkins and other fresh seasonal produce with a focus on providing quality, organic food using environmentally friendly techniques. You’ll also find locally produced syrups, jams and honey at the store.

Pond Hill Farm in Harbor Springs offers U-pick pumpkins and hayrides in the fall. Kids can feed and pet the animals in the livestock barn, smash pumpkins and use the Squash Rocket Slingshot to fire fruits and vegetables into the field. Families will also enjoy the views of Lake Michigan. If you’re hungry, grab a farm-to-table lunch at the Garden Cafe. Adults can enjoy Pond Hill Farm’s own white and red michigan wines and hard cider in the tasting room. Their new brewery also offers a farm-to-barrel experience. At the farm store you’ll find fresh produce as well as canned goods, made from scratch using family recipes. 

King Orchards in Central Lake offers spectacular views that overlook Torch Lake and Grand Traverse Bay. Located halfway between Traverse City and Petoskey, the farm is a great place to stop on your fall color tour. At Kings, they prune their trees to make it easy for children and adults to reach the fruit and enjoy picking. In addition to modern varieties, they offer Heritage Apples, the kind Grandma and Grandpa ate as kids, including Northern Spy, a popular pie apple. King’s Farm Bakery will tempt your tastebuds with homemade pies, jams, jellies, and butters. They also offer fresh, unpasteurized apple cider made on site using a rack-and-cloth apple press.

Golden River Orchard in Cheboygan offer eleven varieties of apples including Honeycrisp, Ida Red and Ginger Gold. This family-owned, first generation orchard has been operating since 2002.

Friske Orchards in Atwood began in 1962, and now three generations now help run the farm. The orchard offers U-pick apples and views of Lake Michigan. Kids will love the petting zoo and playground that features a real farm tractor. You’ll also find vegetables, meats and cheeses in their market. Homemade jams, syrups and salsas are available as well. Stop at the Orchard Cafe for a home cooked gourmet breakfast or lunch. You’ll find pies, cakes, and doughnuts at the farm bakery. Shop for unique gifts at the nostalgic general store and their Country Haus Gift Shop.

Royal Farms Farm Market and Winery in Elsworth has a bakery brimming with homemade pies, cookies and donuts. The  Outdoor Wine Garden offers wine tasting and hard cider on tap. At the farm market, you’ll find apples, pumpkins, fresh produce and unique gifts. Take home some of their fresh pressed apple cider for a true taste of the season. After filling up on tasty treats, see if you can find your way through their five acre corn maze.

Knaebe’s Mmmunchy Krunchy Apple Farm in Rogers City calls itself a “Ma and Pa” apple farm and cider mill. They’ve already picked the apples for your convenience. Search their overflowing crates to find the very best to take home. Pick out a pumpkin and enjoy fresh apple cider and lunch at the hotdog stand too. Horse drawn wagon rides, pony rides and the barrel train will entertain the kids. Homemade baked goods and spicy apple butter are just a few of the delicious offerings in their store. You’ll also find kitchen and bakeware to help turn those apples into a pie.

Thanks for stopping by and visiting Grandpa Shorter’s blog! Have you checked out our web store and popular polished Petoskey Stones? If you come through Petoskey to visit any of these amazing orchards, please stop by our store on Lake Street and say hello!