If you think Michigan is only worth visiting in the summer, think again. When fall rolls around, the Mitten State throws a seasonal bash that’s all about apple picking, pumpkin patches, pie-eating contests, and scenic views with fall foliage.
The best part? Most parks, trails, and orchards feature ADA-compliant layouts with wide paths, smooth surfaces, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Wondering where to start? Come along as we share accessible destinations and wheelchair-friendly activities that should be on your fall bucket list.
Featured Accessible Fall Activities in Michigan
Below are some of the top accessible fall activities that you can enjoy this year:
Take a Scenic Drive on M-22, Leelanau Peninsula, MI
Stretching over 116 miles, M-22 winds its way through some of the most beautiful parts of Michigan, including Benzie, Manistee, and Leelanau counties. On this scenic drive, you’ll see fiery reds, blazing oranges, and dazzling yellows lighting up your path.
As you make your way along M-22, you’ll pass through quaint towns like Glen Arbor, Suttons Bay, and Leland (aka “Fishtown”). Each place is brimming with cute little shops selling everything from artisanal cheeses to locally made wines. You might even encounter a friendly local or three, always ready to share their insider tips or just talk about the weather.
Benzie County is also home to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can climb up massive sand dunes or wheel to observe picturesque views. This national park has paved trails, ramped decks, boardwalks, and accessible campsites, making it a perfect stop for family outings.
Visit Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids, MI
Located in Grand Rapids, Frederick Meijer Garden and Sculpture Park is an absolute autumn paradise. The Mums at the Meijer event features vibrant chrysanthemum displays in every shade of fall color imaginable, including deep oranges, fiery reds, and crimson. At the Autumn Glow Garden, you’ll come across illuminated majestic trees and mystical meadow grasses.
The Farm Garden hosts various family-friendly activities, including pumpkin carving demonstrations and a vibrant harvest of heirloom vegetables, herbs, unique gourds, and massive pumpkins. Food trucks line up to serve seasonal goodies such as steaming hot apple cider, gooey caramel apples, and all types of comfort food that scream fall. If that’s not enough, live music fills the air with groovy fall tunes at the on-site amphitheater.
The best thing is that this park is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and paved paths to accommodate wheelchairs and other devices. Wheelchairs and ECVs are also available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can also book a tram tour that lets you soak in all the beauty of the gardens effortlessly while an experienced guide offers delightful tidbits about each area.
Explore Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Paradise, MI
If you’d rather spend your fall days chasing waterfalls than pumpkin spice lattes, Tahquamenon Falls State Park might just be your next favorite destination. Spanning over 50,000 acres, this park has more than 35 miles of trails and multiple overlooks to the Upper and Lower Falls with paved paths and viewing platforms. The park features an accessible boat and kayak launch for those who want to get close to the colossal waterfalls. While roaming around, you might spot a deer, a fox, a bear, or, if you’re really lucky, a moose!
There’s also a fishing pier where you might reel in some local catch or, more likely, snap a hilarious picture of your “almost caught” fishing adventure. Accessible restrooms and parking are conveniently located near key spots in the park. And don’t worry about getting lost; the park is well-signposted, but if you do, just follow the sound of laughter or the roar of the falls.
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Go for Apple Picking at Crane’s Orchards, Fennville, MI
Autumn means ripe and juicy apples just waiting to be picked! If you plan on making apple pies and applesauce, consider visiting Crane’s Orchards in Fennville. This place has more than 20 different types of apples, including Jonagold, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith, that can be used for anything from snacking to baking. Besides apple picking, you’ll find pumpkin patches, accessible corn mazes with wide but muddy pathways, and hayrides that make you feel like you’re in a movie.
Attend the Accessible Fall Festival at Tunnel of Trees, Harbor Springs, MI
Known for its picturesque canopy of trees, Tunnel of Trees is a 20-mile scenic drive that looks especially magnificent when the leaves turn scarlet, amber, and maroon during the fall season. While winding along this colorful route, you’ll pass through charming towns like Good Hart and Cross Village, which feature quirky general stores and yummy local eateries. Don’t forget to check out Beaver Island and its two vintage lighthouses right from your car’s window.
Additional Accessible Fall Adventures in Michigan
Besides the activities mentioned above, you can celebrate Oktoberfest in Frankenmuth with live polka music and dancing, traditional German food, and wiener dog races. Stroll through ArtPrize and appreciate creative masterpieces, or head to Battle Creek’s Binder Park Zoo Boo for some spooky fun with seasonal decorations and trick-or-treating.
Don’t miss Flint’s Farmer’s Market to buy local produce, meat, cheese, and bread for the holiday feast. For ghostly tales and spine-chilling thrills, try a haunted tour in Jackson. Feeling fancy? Check out the wineries in Traverse City as you sip and savor while surrounded by autumn-hued vineyards.
Enjoy Fall Activities with Clock Mobility
With Clock Mobility’s wheelchair-accessible vehicles, you can comfortably head out for a family pumpkin patch day, attend any fall festival, or enjoy scenic and colorful drives. Since we have flexible rental options and an extensive selection of vehicles, you can book for a day, a weekend, or even longer.
Our services don’t stop at just rentals. We also provide new and used wheelchair-accessible vehicles for sale that can help you travel from one place to another without issues. Plus, our top-notch maintenance services ensure your ride is always in peak condition. Regular maintenance? Check. Emergency repairs? Double-check. We’re all about keeping you on the move smoothly.
For more information about our vehicles or services, visit one of our four locations in Michigan or call us at (866) 380-3326 to make your autumn adventure a reality!