The Fall Essentials – 5 Local Spots to Visit if You Love Cider

It is officially fall! Until this year, the change of seasons has meant absolutely nothing to me. After all, in Florida the seasons go: warm, hot, hotter, you feel like you're drowning outside, and then a couple of weeks where it's below 75. That's it.

So, for my first fall experience I want to do it right. I'm talking scarves, sweaters, plaid shirts, pumpkin patches, and something that's been on my mind since I arrived in Michigan...fresh cider. It's at the top of my list. And thankfully, it looks like Kalamazoo has lots of options!

According to Discover Kalamazoo, these are the top 5 spots to enjoy cider.

1. Gull Meadow Farms

Promising award winning cider, doughnuts, pies and the like...I'm already sold. But Gull Meadow Farms also offers corn mazes, apple picking and special events.

2. Schultz Fruitridge Farms

In the family for three generations, Schultz Fruitridge Farm's cider is said to be a secret recipe using apples only. No sugar. No preservatives. Just "homegrown goodness". Along with cider, Schultz offers baking mixes, jams, salad dressings, freshly picked apples, BBQ sauces, and locally crafted wine.

3. Husted's Farm Market 

According to their website, Glenn and Scott Husted have been making their unpasteurized cider for over 50 years. But, they don't just offer apples. Husted's Farm Market has a variety of produce to choose from like local squash, cauliflower, watermelon and more along with monthly specials.

4. VerHage Fruit Farms and Cider Mill

The people at VerHage Fruit Farms and Cider Mill have been making cider since 1962. What makes them unique is that they use a cider press that's 125 years old with a special blend of apples to make their cider delicious. Ever wonder what goes into the process of making cider? VerHage offers tours!

5. Gene the Pumpkin Man 

Last but certainly not least is Gene the Pumpkin Man! Look...I'm going to be honest. I didn't see anything about cider on their Facebook page but look at that view! Regardless of whether or not they have cider this seems like the perfect setting to get myself into the autumn spirit. For the past 50 years people all over Kalamazoo have visited Gene the Pumpkin Man and I can't wait to join them.

I'm still getting to know Kalamazoo. If you see a spot I missed - let me know! And don't be surprised if you see me fully decked out in the most basic fall outfit, sipping on a pumpkin spiced latte while browsing the local pumpkins, baked goods and cider. If I'm doing fall...I'm doing it all the way!