Yates Cider Mill
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Yates Cider Mill

4.7
·7k reviews·Rochester Hills, United States

Experience Michigan's autumn charm with fresh cider, warm donuts, and scenic river walks at Yates Cider Mill.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Yates Cider Mill

Yates Cider Mill

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Michigan's autumn charm with fresh cider, warm donuts, and scenic river walks at Yates Cider Mill.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"Those cinnamon sugared doughnuts!!!!!! 100/10. So light, fluffy, air and delicious."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Weekend parking fills up fast! Consider parking down the street and walking if the lot is full . :car:

🍩 Warm Donuts are Key

Some visitors note donuts can be cold. Ask if they're fresh or warm for the best experience! :doughnut:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Freshly Pressed Cider

Freshly Pressed Cider

Cider Mill

Taste the pure, crisp flavor of apples pressed right before your eyes. A true taste of Michigan autumn.

Warm Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Warm Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Donut Counter

Fluffy, airy, and perfectly sweet donuts, often served warm. A must-try treat that keeps visitors coming back.

Scenic River Walk

Scenic River Walk

Walking Trail

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the river, especially beautiful with fall foliage. A great way to digest your treats.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Peak Cider & Donuts

Yates Cider Mill is a Michigan fall favorite, drawing crowds, especially on weekends. Arrive early on weekdays or late afternoons to snag parking and enjoy fresh cider and donuts with fewer people. Weekends can mean long waits for parking and service.

Seasonal Offerings & Amenities

While famous for fall cider and donuts, Yates also serves ice cream in warmer months.TikTok Check their operating hours as some attractions, like pony rides and animal feeding, may be seasonal or have limited availability later in the fall.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Late weekday afternoons
Why
Beat the weekend rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Early October weekends
Why
Peak fall colors
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

who wants to go with me ?🥺 Fall is just starting here in Michigan (by that i mean the weather is still very warm despite it almost being october. and i LOVE this place i will never get sick of the apple cider and donuts. Follow to see more of my favorite places in michigan !😆😆😆😆 #fyp #michigan #yates #realtor
@violetpeaks
293 likes • 8.6K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Weekend parking fills up fast! Consider parking down the street and walking if the lot is full.Reddit :car:

🍩 Warm Donuts are Key

Some visitors note donuts can be cold. Ask if they're fresh or warm for the best experience! :doughnut:

@yatescidermill Come with me to Yates Cider Mill in Rochester Hills, Michigan. #appleorchard #thingstodo #michigan #thingstodoinmichigan
@quinnothan
161 likes • 8.3K views
Cider & Donuts In August🍎🍩 ! #fyp #xyzbca #yatescidermill #rochestermichigan
@luxurycolorsbytt
382 likes • 6.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Scenic River Trail

Don't miss the walking trail along the river for beautiful views, especially in autumn. :evergreen_tree:

💰 Bring Cash for Snacks

While they accept cards, having cash can speed up transactions at various food stands. :moneybag:

If youre ever in Michigan in the fall you HAVE to stop by Yates! Been to soo many other cider mills and nobodys donuts/cider compare;) #fall #autumn #cidermill #michigan #foryoupage
@alexisfloydd
106 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Weekend parking fills up fast! Consider parking down the street and walking if the lot is full.Reddit :car:

🍩 Warm Donuts are Key

Some visitors note donuts can be cold. Ask if they're fresh or warm for the best experience! :doughnut:

🚶‍♀️ Scenic River Trail

Don't miss the walking trail along the river for beautiful views, especially in autumn. :evergreen_tree:

💰 Bring Cash for Snacks

While they accept cards, having cash can speed up transactions at various food stands. :moneybag:

🍦 Ice Cream Season

Craving cider and donuts in summer? Yates serves ice cream from 1 PM to 9:30 PM! :ice_cream:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Yates Cider Mill is a beloved Michigan institution, celebrated for its authentic cider and delicious donuts. Visitors praise the fresh ingredients and the charming atmosphere, though some note that weekend crowds and parking can be challenging. The scenic river trail and animal feeding add to the overall family-friendly experience.

"Really fun place to check out! I think it would have been a little better earlier in the season. It was freezing out (literally) and the animals weren't there. We tried walking on the scenic trail along the river, which looked really cool, but it was so windy we ended up turning back.

The hot cider and donuts were awesome! The staff was also very friendly.

Pro Tip: The only public bathrooms available are a couple of port-o-potties near the parking lot. Good to know if that isn't your thing."

Mr3dPHD

"Visited Sunday, Oct 12 2025 130pm - 330pm

We drove from Waterford to meet with friends that live on the east side. It was worth the drive, as I have been to this Cider Mill before over 10 years ago.
It is a full experience Cider Mill.
They offer cinnamon sugar, regular donuts and apple cider fairly priced.
The have a hot dog/ chili dog stand, roasted corn on the cob stand and Frankenmuth fudge stand.
They have plenty of picnic tables, a walking trail and nice river with a bridge running through.
They also offer pony rides and some goat, sheep and 2 small cows that you can purchase food pellets for and feed. By 3pm they are full and lazily lying down.
We arrived about 1:30pm on a Sunday, but it took us about ½hour to park. The Cider Mill is very popular on a Sunday, so traffic was bumper to bumper. We got lucky and found a parking spot in the Cider Mill parking lot as there were people coming and going. Our friends that we met, decided not to wait in traffic and parked down the street on 23 Mile and walked a block or 2.
Overall, it's a great family outing and I wanted to meet friends and bring my boyfriend to experience it.
I prefer smaller, quieter more quaint Cider mills like Franklin Cider Mill (which offers only plain donuts, but they are better tasting and warm and crispy on the outside). But again, Yates is a great, bustling, enjoyable full experience larger Cider Mill with many activities."

S Huie

"Me and my boyfriend had our annual recreation of our first date, only this time we chose to visit a different cider mill this year. Yates was such a great time!!! Between good food, cider and the ambiance, I have no complaints! We went around 2pm and it was a bit packed. Luckily, we got a parking spot rather quickly being that cars were coming in and out. And the lines moved pretty quickly for everything. I am sad that the ice cream stand is closed during certain months, so I look forward to that when I return.

But I must say, those cinnamon sugared doughnuts!!!!!! 100/10. So light, fluffy, air and delicious."

Princess Bates

What People Like

Fresh cider and donuts
Scenic river trail
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds
Parking challenges
Limited restroom facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yates Cider Mill is located in Rochester Hills, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors report traffic congestion, especially on weekends, so plan your travel time accordingly. Some suggest parking a bit further away and walking if the main lot is full.Reddit

Yes, Yates Cider Mill offers parking. However, it can get extremely busy, particularly on fall weekends, leading to long waits to get into the lot.Reddit Arriving early is your best bet for convenient parking.

Public transportation options to Yates Cider Mill are limited. It's primarily a destination best reached by car. Check local transit schedules for any bus routes that might get you close, but be prepared for a walk.

To avoid the worst traffic and parking headaches, aim for weekday mornings or late weekday afternoons. Weekends, especially in October, are the busiest times.Reddit

While specific policies can change, generally, pets are not allowed inside the mill or near food service areas. It's best to leave your furry friends at home to ensure a smooth visit.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to enter Yates Cider Mill. You pay for the food and drinks you purchase, such as cider, donuts, and other treats.TikTok

Yates Cider Mill typically operates seasonally, with extended hours during the fall. They are also open in the summer for ice cream.TikTok It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours of operation.

Information on coupons or discounts for Yates Cider Mill is not widely advertised. It's recommended to check their website or local deal sites periodically, though prices are generally considered fair for the experience.Reddit

The cider mill season typically begins in late August or early September and runs through the end of October. Summer months offer ice cream, but the full cider mill experience is a fall highlight.TikTok

While the full cider mill experience is seasonal (fall), Yates Cider Mill does offer ice cream during the summer months.TikTok For cider and donuts, plan your visit during the traditional fall season.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Yates Cider Mill offers a variety of activities including a scenic walking trail along the river, animal feeding (goats, sheep, cows),Reddit pony rides (seasonal), and of course, enjoying fresh cider and donuts. They also have food stands for hot dogs and corn.Reddit

Yes, Yates Cider Mill features a scenic walking trail that follows the river. It's a popular spot for a leisurely stroll, especially during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.TikTokReddit

Yes, you can purchase food pellets to feed the animals like goats and sheep at Yates Cider Mill.Reddit Keep in mind that animals may be less active or resting later in the day or season.Reddit

The primary public restrooms available at Yates Cider Mill are port-o-potties located near the parking lot.Reddit This is an important detail for visitors to be aware of.

The best experience involves arriving early, enjoying the fresh cider and warm donuts, taking a walk on the river trail, and perhaps feeding the animals. It's a full sensory experience of autumn in Michigan.TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yates Cider Mill is famous for its fresh apple cider and warm cinnamon sugar donuts.TikTok+2 They also offer hot dogs, chili dogs, roasted corn on the cob, pocket pies, and fudge.Reddit

Prices for cider and donuts are generally considered fair for the experience, though some find them a bit steep, with a quart of cider costing around $6.50 and donuts being a few dollars per half dozen.Reddit Prices can vary.

While you can get fresh, cold cider, Yates Cider Mill also serves hot cider, which is a popular choice, especially on cooler fall days.TikTok

The apple cider and donuts are typically vegetarian. For vegan options, you might need to inquire directly, as ingredients can vary. The roasted corn is usually vegan-friendly.

Yes, you can purchase fresh apple cider by the quart or gallon to take home and enjoy later.Reddit It's a great way to extend the taste of your visit.

📸 📸 Photography

Great photo opportunities include the cider press in action, the warm donuts being made, the scenic river trail with fall foliage,TikTok and the rustic barn-like atmosphere of the mill itself.TikTok

Taking photos can be challenging during peak times due to crowds. Visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon can offer more opportunities for clear shots without many people in the background.TikTok

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for photos, especially along the river trail. However, the mill's interior is also well-lit and photogenic during operating hours.

Capture the steam rising from hot cider, the dusting of cinnamon sugar on donuts, and the vibrant colors of the fall leaves along the river. The animals can also make for cute photo subjects.Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at public attractions to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by Yates Cider Mill management.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yates Cider Mill is a fantastic family outing! Kids will love the animal feeding opportunities and the chance to run around on the walking trails.Reddit The excitement of watching cider being pressed and the delicious donuts are sure to be a hit. Be prepared for crowds and potential waits, especially on weekends. Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, though the terrain is generally manageable. The port-o-potties are the main restroom facilities, so keep that in mind for little ones.Reddit

🍂 Fall Enthusiasts

For those who live for autumn, Yates Cider Mill is a quintessential Michigan fall experience. The vibrant fall colors along the river trail TikTok combined with the aroma of fresh cider and donuts create an immersive seasonal atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a fall date or a solo escape to soak in the season's best. Don't miss the chance to capture the autumn beauty through photos.TikTok

🚗 Day-Trippers from Detroit

Yates Cider Mill is a popular day trip destination for those in the Metro Detroit area. It's an easy drive, but be mindful of traffic, especially on weekends.Reddit Pack your patience for parking and lines, but the reward of fresh cider and donuts makes it worthwhile. Combine your visit with a walk along the river for a complete afternoon outing.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Cider & Donuts Experience

Yates Cider Mill is synonymous with its freshly pressed apple cider and warm, fluffy donuts. The cider is made on-site, offering a pure, crisp taste that captures the essence of Michigan autumn.TikTok+1 Visitors rave about the cinnamon sugar donuts, often described as light, airy, and perfectly sweet, especially when enjoyed warm.TikTokReddit While some reviews mention donuts being cold if not eaten immediately or if visiting during off-peak times, the general consensus is that they are a must-try treat.Reddit

Pro Tip: For the best donut experience, try to get them fresh and warm from the counter. The smell alone is intoxicating! TikTok The mill also offers other seasonal treats like roasted corn and pocket pies, adding to the festive atmosphere.Reddit

Exploring the Natural Surroundings

Beyond the mill itself, Yates offers a chance to connect with nature. The scenic walking trail along the river provides a peaceful escape and stunning views, particularly during the fall when the foliage is at its peak.TikTokReddit This trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll after indulging in cider and donuts, allowing you to digest and enjoy the crisp autumn air.

For those who enjoy interacting with animals, Yates Cider Mill has a small petting zoo featuring goats, sheep, and cows. Visitors can purchase food pellets to feed them, which is a popular activity for families.Reddit However, it's worth noting that the animals might be less active or resting later in the day or season.Reddit

Navigating Crowds and Logistics

Yates Cider Mill is an incredibly popular destination, especially on fall weekends. This popularity means significant crowds and potential challenges with parking.Reddit Many visitors report long waits to enter the parking lot, with some opting to park further down the road and walk.Reddit

To make the most of your visit, planning is key. Weekday mornings or late afternoons are generally less crowded than weekend afternoons. Be prepared for lines at the cider press and donut counter, but the staff are often described as friendly and helpful, which can ease the experience.Reddit The only public restrooms are port-o-potties, which is a practical detail to keep in mind.Reddit

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