Yates Cider Mill
Michigan's oldest cider mill, serving legendary donuts and cider with a historic charm and scenic river walk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Yates Cider Mill
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Michigan's oldest cider mill, serving legendary donuts and cider with a historic charm and scenic river walk.
"The best cider mill doughnuts in Michigan! This was way to sedate my cravings until next year!"
🎯 Best Donuts in MI!
Don't miss the donuts; many rave they're the best in Michigan! Buy extra!
🚗 Weekday Visits Recommended
Weekends get chaotic. Weekday mornings offer a calmer experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Freshly Made Donuts
Donut Counter
Warm, soft, and often called the best in Michigan. A must-try fall treat!
Riverfront Views
Along the River
Enjoy scenic walks and picturesque views by the river, perfect for a peaceful moment.
Petting Farm Fun
Animal Area
A small, charming farm with animals that delight visitors, especially families.
Historic Cider Press
Near the Mill
See the historic cider press in action, a testament to the mill's long-standing tradition.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Fall Rush
Donut Delights & Cider Sips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Donuts in MI!
Don't miss the donuts; many rave they're the best in Michigan! Buy extra!
🚗 Weekday Visits Recommended
Weekends get chaotic. Weekday mornings offer a calmer experience.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Options
Yates can be busy for dogs. Consider their Canterbury Village location for a more relaxed dog outing.
🍎 Apple Tent Treasures
Beyond donuts, explore the apple tent for fresh produce and fall decor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Donuts in MI!
Don't miss the donuts; many rave they're the best in Michigan! Buy extra!
🚗 Weekday Visits Recommended
Weekends get chaotic. Weekday mornings offer a calmer experience.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Options
Yates can be busy for dogs. Consider their Canterbury Village location for a more relaxed dog outing.
🍎 Apple Tent Treasures
Beyond donuts, explore the apple tent for fresh produce and fall decor.
💰 Petting Farm Fee
There's a small fee ($2) to feed the animals at the petting farm.
🚶♀️ Scenic River Trail
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the nature trail by the river. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Yates Cider Mill for its exceptional cider and donuts, often calling them the best in Michigan. The historic charm, scenic river walk, and family-friendly atmosphere are also highly appreciated. Some minor critiques mention service speed during busy periods and the crust-to-filling ratio on hand pies.
"The best cider mill doughnuts in Michigan! We bought a dozen and wish I would have bought more! This was a great surprise for the store to be so close! Usually went to the cider mill every fall. This was way to sedate my cravings until next year!"
dreekie1
"Was so good. The caramel is rich and sweet. Love"
Sherry Hill
"Stopped in on a Sunday afternoon while checking out the Halloween displays at Canterbury Village. Donuts are soft and cider is delicious. Love that you can buy a mini 1 quart size cider jug. This is the perfect size for two people to share. Also tried the cherry and raspberry hand pies. They were good but crust to filling ratio could’ve leaned more on the filling side. The only star I took off is for the service. It wasn’t super busy but the girl who helped us at the counter obviously didn’t want to be there to wait on us."
Laurie Olds
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yates Cider Mill is located at 1950 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, MI. It's easily accessible by car. Parking can be limited during peak times, so arriving early is advised.
Public transportation options to Yates Cider Mill are limited. It's primarily a destination reached by car. Check local transit schedules for any available bus routes that might get you close.
Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly, especially on busy fall weekends. Consider carpooling or arriving early to secure a spot.
While Yates Cider Mill is a popular spot, it can be quite chaotic during peak fall season, making it challenging for dogs. Some visitors suggest their Canterbury Village location might be a more relaxed option for pets.
Yes, Yates Cider Mill is a popular day trip from Detroit. The drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to enter Yates Cider Mill. You pay for the items you purchase, such as cider, donuts, fudge, and farm activities.
Yates Cider Mill is typically open from 7 am to 7 pm, but hours can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially during the fall season.
Yes, there is a small fee, usually around $2, to feed the animals at the petting farm.
While you can't typically pre-order cider and donuts for a specific time, they are made fresh throughout the day. Be prepared for a potential wait during busy periods.
Yates Cider Mill often hosts family-friendly activities, especially on weekends, including face painting, spin art, and pony rides (for an additional fee).
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond the delicious cider and donuts, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the river trail, visit the petting farm, and explore the apple tent. They also offer face painting and spin art on weekends.
Absolutely! Families love Yates Cider Mill for its donuts, petting farm, and general festive atmosphere. The river trail is also a pleasant, easy walk for little ones.
The atmosphere is quintessential fall! Expect a lively, bustling environment with the smell of fresh donuts, the sound of happy visitors, and beautiful autumn scenery.
Yes, you can often see the cider being made, which is a fascinating part of the experience. Watching the donuts being prepared fresh is also a highlight.
Yates Cider Mill features a nature trail that runs along the river, offering a peaceful escape and scenic views. It's generally an easy and enjoyable walk.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
The freshly made donuts and delicious cider are the absolute must-tries. Many visitors also rave about the fudge and hand pies. +1
Prices can vary, but expect to pay a reasonable amount for fresh donuts and cider. A dozen donuts is a popular purchase, and cider is available in various sizes, including mini jugs.
Yes, Yates Cider Mill offers a variety of other treats, including hot chocolate, fudge (chocolate, walnut, caramel), and hand pies (cherry, raspberry).
Yes, mulled cider is often available, especially during cooler fall days, providing a warm and spiced beverage option.
The fudge, particularly chocolate and walnut, is highly praised for its rich and sweet flavor, making it a popular souvenir or treat.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant fall colors along the river trail, the bustling donut-making process, the charming petting farm animals, and of course, the delicious treats themselves.
Absolutely! The fall foliage surrounding the mill and river creates a picturesque backdrop, making it a fantastic spot for autumn photography.
Yes, the historic cider press is a unique visual element and a great subject for photos, showcasing the mill's heritage.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the serene river views, while late afternoon offers warm, golden hour light. Be mindful of crowds during peak times.
The river walk, the donut counter with fresh donuts, and the colorful apple tent are all popular spots for Instagram photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
On weekends, look out for face painting and spin art to add extra fun. The cider and donuts are a must-try for everyone, and the river trail provides a lovely, easy walk for little legs. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the biggest crowds and make the experience more manageable with young children. While there's no admission fee, be prepared to spend on treats and activities. The overall atmosphere is festive and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for creating cherished family memories.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Detroit
Your primary mission will likely be indulging in the legendary cider and donuts, which many consider the best in the state. Beyond the food, take advantage of the scenic river trail for a refreshing walk and explore the petting farm for a touch of rural charm. If you're visiting on a weekend, you might catch additional activities like face painting. Arriving on a weekday morning is highly recommended to bypass the weekend rush and enjoy a more relaxed visit.
🐶 Pet Owners (with a caveat)
If you do decide to visit Yates, be prepared for crowds and ensure your dog is comfortable in busy settings. Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other visitors. The outdoor areas, like the river trail, might offer more space, but the main areas can be quite packed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Yates Cider Mill
Visitors can witness the historic cider press in action, a tangible link to the past. This heritage is not just about history; it's about the continuation of a craft that brings fresh, delicious cider to thousands each year. The mill's location along the river also adds to its charm, providing a scenic backdrop that has remained largely unchanged, offering a sense of timelessness.
The mill's longevity is a testament to its quality and its ability to adapt while staying true to its roots. It’s more than just a place to buy cider; it’s a destination that evokes nostalgia and creates new memories for every visitor. The scenic trail along the river further enhances this experience, allowing guests to connect with nature and appreciate the mill's beautiful surroundings.
Culinary Delights: Donuts and Beyond
Complementing the donuts is the delicious cider, available in various sizes, including convenient mini jugs perfect for sharing. The cider is praised for its crisp, refreshing taste, embodying the essence of fall. Beyond these iconic treats, Yates also offers a tempting array of other goodies. Visitors can indulge in rich and sweet fudge, with popular flavors like chocolate and walnut, and enjoy hand pies with fruit fillings.
For those seeking a warm beverage, mulled cider is often available, providing a spiced and comforting option on cooler days. The variety of treats ensures there's something to satisfy every craving, making Yates Cider Mill a true culinary destination during the autumn season.
Family Fun and Activities
Beyond the farm animals, the mill provides other engaging activities. On weekends, you can find face painting and spin art, adding a creative and colorful element to the visit. For those looking for a bit more adventure, pony rides are also available for an additional cost. These attractions ensure that there's plenty to keep children entertained throughout the visit.
The scenic nature trail along the river offers a more relaxed experience, perfect for a family stroll. It's an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the mill and burn off some energy after indulging in the delicious treats. The combination of food, animals, and activities makes Yates Cider Mill a well-rounded family outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit