With first semester in full-swing, you may soon be in need of a healthy dose of rest and recuperation. Before the winter chill hits, when you need a mental breather from the hustle and bustle of school, do some exploring here in Ann Arbor! From cider mills to coffee shops to Halloween fun, there are plenty of ways to have a memorable Ann Arbor fall!
Here are some of my suggestions for a perfect seasonal activities in Ann Arbor:
1. Celebrate at a cider mill
What screams “fall” more than a cider mill? Growing up in Michigan, my childhood was filled with cider mill visits. If you hail from out of state, a trip to one of the Ann Arbor mills is a must! I recommend Dexter’s Cider Mill (3685 Central St, Dexter, MI 48130) for those seeking the most traditional experience. Though twenty minutes outside of Ann Arbor, classic cider mill treats like cider, cinnamon-sugar donuts, fresh apples, caramel apples, apple-nut bread, and more make the drive to Dexter’s well worth it.
If you’re in search of something a bit more elaborate, check out Wiard’s Orchard (5565 Merritt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197). On top of your classic tasty cider mill treats, they also offer corn mazes, hayrides, and a pumpkin patch.
2. Scenic walks and coffee shops
Visit the Arb for a walk! There is no better place to view beautiful fall foliage than Nichols Arboretum! Conveniently located on the edge of Central Campus, the Arb is the perfect place for a scenic nature walk. Pull on a cozy sweater, grab a friend, and pack some snacks for an outdoor excursion. If the chilly weather sounds uninviting, hit up your favorite coffee shop instead! From The Common Cup to Literati Coffee to Starbucks, there is no shortage of cozy cafes to spend the day in. After all, who doesn’t love a tasty pumpkin spice latte?
3. Self care 101
Exercise some self-love to relieve school stress! Whether that means getting back into your workout routine, curling up with your favorite book, or binging your favorite Netflix show, take some well deserved “you” time and recharge for the homestretch of the semester!
4. Embrace the spooky season
Get into the Halloween spirit! If you are a Halloween lover like me, this is definitely an exciting month for you. Whether this means planning out a flawless Halloween costume, or watching your favorite Halloween flicks, it is finally time to get into the holiday mood! If your version of Halloween fun is all things scary, check out “Night Terrors” at Wiard’s Orchard. Offered on weekend nights, the event includes six haunted attractions and a haunted hayride!
Whether spending an evening at a cider mill, decorating for Halloween or just relaxing at home, enjoy the season, make new memories, and have a fabulous fall!
Contributed by Natalie Fill, –Neighborhood Ambassador