All The Fall: Cider Mills, Movies, Recipes, and More!
Kunal Hingorani
Kunal is Stewart Team's Director of Investments and has worked with our team for about five years...
Kunal is Stewart Team's Director of Investments and has worked with our team for about five years...
The air is crisp, the leaves are falling, and pumpkin spice is in the air.
Things may look different this year, but fall isn't canceled! That's why we've provided a guide to make the most out of what's left of the season. From cider mill recommendations to movie ideas to delicious recipes, you'll find everything you need to embrace all the fall!
Local Cider Mills
Safe, outdoor family fun!
Blake's Orchard and Cider Mill
Possibly the best-known cider mill in Southeast Michigan, Blake's offers something for everyone. If you're looking for a full day of family fun, consider a Funland Day Pass.
Keep in mind that Blake's has capacity limits in place to ensure the safety of all guests and requires everyone to wear masks unless seated and eating. More details on their COVID-19 precautions can be found here.
Looking for something a little spooky? Check our their haunted attractions (tickets can be purchased here).
There's also an artisan market, U-pick, and of course all the delicious cider and donuts! It's a great place for fall birthday parties, bonfires, and family fun!
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Westview Orchards & Winery
This one's a little closer to the Rochester area, which is perfect if you're looking for less of a drive! Westview also has safety measures in place (which you can read about here), so you can embrace the fun without the worry.
U-pick apples and pumpkins are open from 10-5 daily, and their farm market, full of pies, jams, butters, wine, honey and (of course) cider and donuts is open from 8-6 daily. If you're still nervous about crowds, they have curb-side pick-up available if you pre-order. They also regularly host events like concerts and bonfires (details here!).
Of course, "winery" is in their name! The winery is open Friday 1-6, Saturday 1-9, and Sunday 1-6. Check out their menu of available wines and hard ciders.
With a play area and petting zoo for kids, wine for the adults, and great produce and bakes for everyone, it's a great way for the whole family to enjoy the fall season!
Yates Cider Mill
Right in Rochester's backyard, Yates is the local cider mill star, and for good reason! With delicious cider and donuts, kid-friendly (and let's be honest, adult-friendly) activities, and located right by the Clinton River, you can enjoy the classic fall cider mill experience without leaving the neighborhood. Be sure to check out their COVID-19 safety pan here, and if you want to avoid crowds, visit during the week rather than the weekend.
Yates is also full of fascinating history. The mill's story dates back to the 1800s and history buffs can check out the full story here.
Beyond their famous donuts and cider, you can also find honey, apple jams and butters, cookies, apple pies, apple fritters (warning: they're the size of your head and addicting!), and more. Just don't think you can squeeze in a trip but still want the fall flavors? You can order online!
We promise that the long lines are worth it!
Movies & Shows
A cozy stay-at-home option!
Hocus Pocus
It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown
The Addams Family
Dead Poets Society
Casper
Harry Potter
Stranger Things
Friday Night Lights
Gilmore Girls
American Horror Story
Monsters Inc
Beetlejuice
Recipes
That smell and taste like fall!
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Pumpkin Crisp
There's nothing more fall than pumpkin! But instead of opting for a pie, try making a pumpkin crisp - vanilla ice cream recommended.
Apple Butter Pancakes
Breakfast for dinner is always a good idea. These warm and delicious pancakes are the perfect way to get into the fall spirit - bonus points if you picked the apples!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
If you're looking to add an appetizer to your movie night, look no further than these meatballs. They even end up looking like little pumpkins!
Pumpkin Alfredo
This creamy pumpkin alfredo will add a cozy touch to your pasta night and will smell and taste just like fall.
Maple Oatmeal Cookies
There's something special about the smell of cookies baking on a fall day. Don't worry if the plate is done before the opening credits of your movie night.
Autumn One-Pan Chicken Dinner
This is the perfect easy recipe for those days where spending hours in the kitchen just isn't going to happen.
Setting the Scene
The cozier the better!
Make a Blanket Fort
There's nothing cozier than piling up all of your blankets into the ultimate blanket fort. Grab the dining room chairs, use your couch cushions, and even hang some string lights inside to create the perfect atmosphere to settle in and watch your favorite fall movie.
Dust Off the Fireplace
We know that your fireplace hasn't gotten much use since the winter, but now is the perfect time to dust it off and grab some firewood. If the temperature is still a bit high, you may want to turn down the thermostat for the evening and settle in.
Pumpkin Carving
Take your fall movie night to the next level and carve some pumpkins first. It doesn't get more "fall" than a candle flickering in your pumpkin and a homemade pumpkin crisp baking in the oven.
Can't Get Cozy at Home?
If you're thinking about moving into a new home this fall we can help you find the perfect place to cuddle up for your next movie night.