As the leaves begin to change color, and the cooler temperatures start to stick, it’s time to say goodbye to summer and welcome in the new season. Autumn has finally made its debut. This time of year is ripe with opportunities for family fun, with the fall holidays and the beauty that the Midwest has to offer. You can always find something that everyone can enjoy. Here are a few ideas for making the most of the season.
Cider Tasting
Nothing soothes the chill from the autumn winds quite like warm apple cider. It’s a fall essential! During the fall months, apples are in season in the Midwest, which means fresh apple cider is in stock. Instead of buying at the local market, try going straight to the source. Cider mills are a perfect family activity to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells that we equate with autumn. So if you’re craving a farm fresh taste and experience, look into taking a trip to a cider mill. Here are a few with fall fun activities:
- The Long Family Orchard, Farm & Cider Mill is a seasonal attraction where you get everything you love about sweater weather in one spot. They have fall favorites like hayrides, a corn maze, pumpkin patches, and of course apple cider with doughnuts. They also offer visitors the chance to pick their own apples and enjoy the farm’s small petting zoo. Not to mention, they have a huge picnic area with an impressive play area.
- Goodison Cider Mill is perfect if you’re looking for a more hands-on approach to cider tastings. Goodison’s offers the unique experience of having apple cider made right before your eyes using an old-fashioned press, which is great for older kids. For younger kids, they have balloon animals and a bounce house, as well as a play area that’s open seven days a week.
Arts and Crafts
Fall can bring weather that’s bone-chilling. A great way to stay out of the weather is indoor arts and crafts. The autumn months inspire a variety of seasonal projects that you can enjoy doing with the grandkids. And if you run out of ideas, the internet can give several more. All of which can be fairly simple and an easy cleanup. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Pipecleaner Spiders -These creepy crawlies are perfect for crafters of any skill level, and the required supplies are relatively inexpensive. You can keep them simple or jazz them up with seasonal colored beads.
- Fallen Leaf Art - Incorporating the autumn leaves into arts and crafts can be a fun way to celebrate fall and its beauty. Midwest offers has an endless supply of fallen leaves that come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. has the ability to give seniors a newfound sense of freedom and independence. When seniors have limited mobility, which frequently comes with age, there can be a decrease in their overall well-being. A few vital services assisted living communities provide is access to transportation, housekeeping and laundry services, and meal preparation. Service like these are essential for older adults with cognitive or physical impairments.
Fall Color Getaways
One of the best ways to enjoy autumn is by taking in the seasonal sights. Right now, the vibrant harvest colors are quickly transforming the Midwest into a spectacular display. As breathtaking as the colors may be, their time is limited. Here are a few color tour destinations you’ll want to see:
- Mackinaw City - Petoskey - Charlevoix - This northwestern Michigan fall color tour includes hilly, forested countryside, charming resort towns nestled along the sparkling blue waters of Lake Michigan, breathtaking views, fresh air, and colorful wildlife.
- Marquette - Negaunee - Au Train -This central Upper Peninsula fall driving tour includes tree-lined country roads, waterfalls, historic sites and a stunning drive along the Lake Superior shore. You’ll find subtle yellow to brilliant red scenery from mid-September to early October.
There are plenty of things to love about the fall. Whether it’s the autumn hues, crisp air, and seasonal festivities, you’re sure to find something the whole family can enjoy.
