When fall rolls around in Plymouth, Michigan, one place should be at the top of your to-visit list: Plymouth Orchards & Cider Mill. This family-owned gem is located at 10685 Warren Road in Plymouth and has served autumn goodness since 1977.
A Woman’s Touch
Let’s start with a bit of girl power, shall we? Plymouth Orchards & Cider Mill has been a woman-owned business from the get-go. Mary Emmett, the founder, didn’t just plant a few apple trees and call it a day. No, she turned this place into a fall hotspot that locals can’t stop raving about. It’s like she waved a magic wand, and poof – instant autumn vibes.
Organic Apples? Oh, Yes!
Now, here’s where things get interesting. In 2013, Plymouth Orchards decided to go organic. It wasn’t an overnight change – it took three years to get that fancy organic certification. But boy, was it worth it! Now, you can munch on apples without worrying about weird chemicals. It’s like eating nature’s candy but better.
Cider That Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance
Let’s talk about the star of the show – the cider. Plymouth Orchards doesn’t mess around when it comes to their apple juice. It’s award-winning stuff, folks. Whether you like it hot, cold, or as a slush (yeah, you heard that right), they’ve got you covered. And get this – it’s not pasteurized. That means you’re getting the real deal from the apples to your glass.
Donuts: The Perfect Cider Sidekick
What’s cider without donuts? At Plymouth Orchards, they’re cranking out these little rings of joy fresh daily. You’ve got your classic cinnamon sugar, but don’t stop there. They’ve also got plain and powdered sugar options. Pro tip: get one of each. You know, for research purposes.
More Than Just Apples and Cider
Sure, the cider and donuts are great, but Plymouth Orchards has more tricks up its sleeve. How about a wagon ride through the orchard? It’s like a farm-themed rollercoaster, minus the loops and screaming. And for the little ones (or the young at heart), there’s a hay bale climb. It’s a jungle gym made of hay – what’s not to love?
Meet the Locals (and We Don’t Mean People)
Plymouth Orchards isn’t just about plants. They’ve got some furry and feathered friends, too. The farm animals are always a hit with visitors. Word on the street is that the hairy pigs are particularly popular. Who knew pigs could be fashion icons?
Sustainability: Not Just a Buzzword
These folks are serious about being green; we’re not just talking about apples. They’ve recently added solar panels to their main cider building. These bad boys can generate up to 70% of the electricity needed to run the place. It’s like they’re powering their cider press with sunshine. How cool is that?
Pumpkin Picking: Because Why Not?
If apples aren’t your thing (who are you?), don’t worry. Plymouth Orchards has pumpkins, too. You can pick your own, perfect for those Instagram-worthy fall photos. Just don’t try to juice a pumpkin for cider. Trust us, it doesn’t work.
The Store: A Treasure Trove of Tasty Treats
Before you leave, make sure to stop by the store. It’s like Willy Wonka’s factory, but for apple products. Caramel apples? Check. Jams and jellies? You bet. Freshly baked pies? Oh yeah. They’ve even got apple cider grilling sauce. We’re not entirely sure what that is, but we want it.
Why Plymouth Orchards Stands Out
Standing out is tough in a state that ranks third in the nation for apple production, with over 775 orchards. But Plymouth Orchards manages to do just that. Maybe it’s the organic apples, solar panels, or the hairy pigs. Whatever it is, this place has that special something that keeps people returning year after year.
The Plymouth Orchards Experience
A trip to Plymouth Orchards isn’t just about buying apples and cider. It’s about soaking in the whole fall experience. The crisp air, the crunch of leaves under your feet, the smell of fresh donuts – it’s like autumn decided to throw a party, and everyone’s invited.
So, you know where to go next time you’re in Plymouth, Michigan, craving some fall fun. Plymouth Orchards & Cider Mill is waiting for you with open arms and fresh cider. Just remember to save some donuts for the rest of us, okay?
Sources: visitdetroit.com, plymouthorchards.com
Header Image Source: plymouthorchards.com
