When the leaves start changing colors, and the air gets a bit nippy, people start planning their autumn adventures. While some prefer curling up on the couch with spooky movies and hot chocolate, others like heading out to enjoy the simple pleasures of the season.
If you’re someone who loves the whimsical charm of hayrides and apple cider, Michigan’s autumn attractions will tickle your fall fancy! Every year, local farms pull out all the stops with their sprawling pumpkin patches and bountiful apple orchards. Some even arrange accessible themed activities, bonfires, and live entertainment.
Featured Accessible Pumpkin Patches in Michigan
Below are some of the most accessible pumpkin patches in Michigan:
Jacob’s Farm, Traverse City
Located in Traverse City, Jacob’s Farm offers an all-day adventure packed with classic fall activities and unexpected delights. This farm is famous for its corn maze that has over five miles of trail. At the end of October, they host “Thriller Night,” which is all sorts of spooky.
Their pumpkin patch features big, small, and adorably misshapen pumpkins, which are perfect for that quintessential fall photo shoot or a carving masterpiece. While wandering, you can sip on steaming hot apple cider and crunch on cheesy quesadillas that are worth every calorie.
Besides pumpkins, you’ll find an abundance of apples, cherries, peaches, plums, and raspberries at their U-pick orchard. There’s also a KidZone featuring two play sets, a giant sandbox, and hills perfect for running and rolling.
Spicer Orchards, Fenton
Spicer Orchards usually opens its pumpkin patch in mid-September through October 31. They offer an accessible wagon ride to the pumpkin patch, or you can purchase pumpkins from the front lawn. Once you’ve grabbed the plumpest pumpkin, you can hop on the wagon to roam scenic routes filled with vibrant foliage and the sweet smell of homemade fudge or caramel cheesecake wafting through the air.
Since Spicer Orchards is an active farm, you can easily spend hours exploring without a dull moment. Convenient handicapped parking spots are located near the main attractions, and the farm market and winery are also accessible for easy navigation.
There is a significant hill down to the playground area, but a paved path helps smooth the journey. The orchard grounds, pumpkin patch, and corn maze do have uneven ground and dirt/grass pathways. But if you’ve got a wheelchair with all-terrain tires, you’ll be good to go!
Johnson’s Giant Pumpkin Farm, Saginaw
If you’re looking for the perfect fall destination that packs the fun and picturesque vibes of the season, head over to Johnson’s Giant Pumpkin Farm which opens its gates on 7th September. This farm has over 80 varieties of pumpkins, colorful gourds and squash. You can also pick up some yard decor, like straw bales and corn stalk bundles, to bring that autumn feel to your home.
There’s a 13-acre corn maze that takes about 40 minutes to complete, but who’s counting when you’re having a corny good time? If you’re traveling with kids, take them to the petting zoo to meet and feed emus, llamas, and goats. On weekends, you’ll find kiddie train rides, horse rides, blacksmith and rope-making demonstrations, face painting, and live entertainment.
There’s a large, accessible-only parking lot right up front and a handicap-accessible restroom at the farm. Most surfaces are flat with either gravel, grass, or mulch. There are ramps for the concession and craft buildings, making it easier to get inside. The maze features dirt paths, which can get a bit muddy and slippery, so you must prepare accordingly.
Wheelchair-friendly Apple Orchards in Michigan
If you plan on cooking up all things apple this autumn, check out the following wheelchair-friendly apple orchards that Michigan has to offer:
Westview Orchards & Winery, Washington
Located in Washington, Westview Orchards & Winery is all about vibrant colors, seasonal delights, and loads of fun. This charming farm has at least ten different varieties of scrumptious fall apples. You’ll also find ripe raspberries, colorful squash, and pumpkins galore!
They also host various events, including Fall Festival Fun, Yoga in the Orchard, and a Corn Maze and Apple Cannons. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a good sip, head over to their winery; you’ll find something to toast to the season.
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Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery, Grand Rapids
Established in 1911, Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery is a staple of Western Michigan. This 125-acre orchard boasts various fresh, seasonal fruits, including apricots, cherries, peaches, nectarines, blackberries, and a staggering 35 varieties of apples. You can pick Northern Spy to make chunky applesauce or Jonagold to make apple pie.
Robinette’s has a delightful petting zoo, a mind-bending corn maze, and even horse-drawn wagon rides that make you feel like you’re in a country movie. The Apple Haus section features a bakery, lunch counter, a cozy eating area, and a cider mill pumping out the best cider you’ve ever sipped. Their lineup changes with the seasons, keeping things fresh and exciting. Some standouts include Barzilla’s cider, Apple Cherry, and the adventurous Hopped Cider.
Wiard’s Orchard & Country Fair, Ypsilanti
Wiard’s Orchard & Country Fair is a must-visit spot for apple enthusiasts and adventure seekers. As you roll through the orchard, you’ll find rows upon rows of juicy apples, such as tart Granny Smiths for that perfect pie or deliciously sweet Fuji apples for snacking.
This orchard arranges different weekday and weekend activities. You can visit the petting zoo to cuddle with fuzzy bunnies, greet playful goats, and maybe even catch a selfie with a sheep. Test your putting skills at Fort Wiard’s mini golf course or belt out your favorite tunes at the Karaoke Kabin.
After all this fun, make sure to swing by the Country Store & Bakery to indulge in farm-fresh pies, melt-in-your-mouth cider mill donuts, delicious apple fritters, and hand-dipped caramel apples.
Tips for Planning Your Accessible Autumn Adventure in Michigan
Keep the following tips in mind while visiting Michigan in autumn:
- Before visiting any farm, check whether it’s wheelchair-accessible or offers special accommodations. Websites often list facilities, but a quick call can verify details like paved paths, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spots. Some places might have all-terrain wheelchairs available for dirt paths and grassy areas, so it’s worth asking!
- Michigan’s fall weather can be unpredictable. It might be chilly in the morning but warm up to almost summer-like conditions by midday, so you must dress in layers. Think cozy flannels, a light jacket, comfy jeans, and a beanie.
- Find accessible rest stops along your route. Many pumpkin patches and orchards are in rural areas, so planning pit stops at nearby towns or parks with accessible facilities can be a lifesaver.
- Many sites host events like hayrides, cider tastings, and petting zoos. Call ahead to check if these activities are accessible. Some hayrides may have ramps or lifts for wheelchairs, while corn mazes have wider paths or accessible routes.
- While orchards might have yummy treats, they may include ingredients that upset your stomach or cause allergic reactions. Bring your favorite snacks and a thermos of something warm, like apple cider or hot cocoa, to keep you refreshed, especially if you’re making a day of it.
Start Your Accessible Adventure with Clock Mobility
Located in four cities across Western Michigan, Clock Mobility is all about making your autumn adventures accessible and unforgettable, whether you’re heading to a pumpkin patch or an apple orchard. We offer an extensive range of ADA-compliant wheelchair-accessible vehicles featuring ramp access, spacious interiors, secure tie-downs, comfortable seating, and advanced navigation systems.
With our flexible rental plans, you can book for a day, a weekend, or even longer periods to suit your needs. Please fill out our form or call us today at (866) 380-3326 to reserve your vehicle. Or, if you’re looking to explore our inventory, visit one of our convenient locations, and our friendly staff will guide you through the buying process.
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