Celebrate fall at Ohio's cider mills

Cookies and Apple CiderPhoto byJill Wellington/Pixabay

Fall in Ohio means colorful leaves, crisp air, and visiting cider mills for fresh apple cider and plenty of fun. When you’re ready to venture out, don your favorite sweatshirt and visit one of these charming spots for an adventurous afternoon with family and friends:

MacQueen's Orchards (7605 Garden Road, Holland)

A Holland fixture since 1936, MacQueen's Orchards has been an autumn tradition for generations. It’s where friends and families gather to pick apples, watch the cider-making process, and enjoy the popular Apple Butter Festival designed to celebrate the arrival of the fall season.

When you’re ready for a break, enjoy a sweet treat and a refreshing cup of apple cider from the farm market.

Hugus Fruit Farm (Old Rushville Road NE, Rushville)

Nestled in the beautiful Appalachian foothills, the Hugus Fruit Farm produces some of the tastiest apple cider in Ohio. The cider is pressed fresh weekly. It typically starts in early September and runs through January if there are enough apples.

Along with the cider, you can also shop for honey, apple butter, maple syrup, and other delicious goodies.

Beckwith Orchards (1617 Lake Rockwell Road, Kent)

In operation since 1878, Beckwith Orchards has a long history of offering fall fun. The season brings apples, pumpkins, gourds, and everyone’s favorite, apple cider.

Visitors are invited to stroll through the orchards or bring their bikes for a scenic ride along the adjacent Portage County Hike and Bike Trail. Beckwith is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Legend Hills Orchard (11335 Reynolds Road, Utica)

Now in its fifth generation, Legend Hills started in 1926 with peach and apple trees. The Hoar family manages about 340 acres, and you’ll often see the second, third, fourth, and fifth generations pruning, picking, and selling fruit.

During your visit, pick your own apples and shop for Amish cheese, beef jerky, apple cider, and more.