The moment you walk out of your car, the scent of freshly made donuts wafts through the air. One of the more popular cider mills in the area, the historic Yates is located in Rochester, about a 45-minute drive from Grosse Pointe. They feature some of the best standard cider mill fares in the area. Their still-warm cinnamon sugar donuts had the perfect pillow texture that allowed for their heavenly taste to linger long after the last bite. Outside the main building, independent vendors sell other tasty treats, such as corn on the cob, Frankenmuth fudge, hot dogs and more. The best item was the corn on the cob, which you could season to your liking with the variety of spices and toppings the vendor had. The corn was perfectly sweet and complimented the different seasonings perfectly; it was probably the best thing I ate all day. Other than food, Yates features an endless riverside nature trail, petting farm and good times for every customer.
Westview is perfect for families with younger children. It features a designated play area for kids, a giant petting zoo and spaces to host parties. While the kids play in the fenced-off kid area, parents can sit back and sample some of Westview’s southwest snacks and signature wines. Another attraction is their fruit and vegetable picking—something that stands out from the average cider mill. For a fee, customers can take a hayride out to Westview’s fields and pick their apples, raspberries and other seasonal fruits and vegetables. If you want to skip the hayride, Westview also has a farmers market where they sell pre-picked apples and other fruit, bread and candied apples. If you’re looking for a place where the whole family can have fun, Westview is your place.
Paint Creek Cider MillA hidden gem, Paint Creek Cider Mill is great for enjoying food and burning off calories after. Another historic cider mill, Paint Creek offers more than just the average donuts and cider. Burgers, ribs, pizza and more. Paint Creek specializes in serving a variety of food. Their specialties focus on combining sweet treats: their donut sundae and donut ice cream sandwich were the most unique things at any of the three mills. Behind the cider mill, there is a wide gravel nature trail where you can take a nice walk after stuffing yourself with all their tasty treats. Only a short drive from downtown Rochester, Paint Creek offers unique spins on cider mill classics you should go and try.
