The Reinhart Blog

Fall in Michigan is one of our favorite things—thanks in large part to you-pick apples, corn mazes, Michigan football, freshly pressed cider, pumpkin donuts, and all the reds and golds of our tree-lined neighborhoods. To help you make the most of the season here in Ann Arbor, we rounded up some of the region’s best autumn activities (donuts included!). 

For more seasonal fun, check out The 11 Best Places to See Michigan’s Fall Colors Near Ann Arbor and 19 Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards and Cider Mills You Can Visit Near Ann Arbor. 

1. Visit Wiard’s Orchards & Country Fair.

Photo courtesy of Wiard’s Orchards & Country Fair

Wiard’s was founded in Michigan by George Wiard in 1837 and has become one of the region’s most beloved fall destinations. Covering nearly 100 acres and located just minutes from Ann Arbor, attractions include the seasonal Wiard’s Country Fair, an agri-entertainment park that offers orchards, a cider mill, you-pick apples, a corn maze, a you-pick pumpkin patch, an apple cannon, giant inflatables, pony rides, hayrides, a petting farm, miniature golf, a haunted barn, children’s play areas and even more. You can also step inside the Country Store and Bakery to taste fresh cider, seasonal donuts, freshly baked pies, jams, jellies, honey and apple salsas.

2. Get cider and donuts at Dexter Cider Mill. 

Open seasonally, Dexter Cider Mill is the oldest continuously operating cider mill in the entire state. Today, the team makes cider the same way it was made 120 years ago: using locally grown, handpicked apples on an oak rack press. Even their equipment is over 100 years old! In addition to natural cider, fresh apples, doughnuts, apple nut bread, made-from-scratch apple pies, apple strudel, apple turnovers and hand-rolled gingersnaps, you can also purchase homemade hard ciders made on-site.

3. Celebrate every Michigan football game. 

Fall is Wolverine season in Ann Arbor. The full football schedule includes several regularly scheduled home games through November 30th. Check it out here and check out A Complete Guide to Tailgating for U-M Football Games in Ann Arbor for help celebrating on game day.

4. Go on a Fall Color Tour with Southern Michigan Railroad. 

Each year, the Southern Michigan Railroad hosts Fall Color Tours, seasonal events that explore the area’s changing foliage from the comfort of a train car. Because the rides sell out every single year, the railroad offers a variety of seating options, dates and rides. Six dates are available throughout October 2019 and October 12th and 13th are scheduled during Tecumseh’s 26th Annual Appleumpkin Festival. For full details on these Fall Color Tours, click here.

5. Catch live music at Northville Winery & Brewing Co.

Photo courtesy of Northville Winery & Brewing Co.

This hometown spot makes all their wine, hard cider and beer on-site and is open year-round with frequent live music events and a delectable calendar of local food trucks. To see what’s on tap and what events are coming up, check out the website here, and don’t miss Dead at the Winery every Thursday! 

For more Michigan made cider, check out Where to Get the Best Hard Cider in Michigan. 

6. Run The Original A2 Turkey Trot.

Every year, Epic Races celebrates Thanksgiving with a race through Hudson Mills Metropark! This running and walking event features four different distances: a 5K loop around scenic Hudson Mills, a 10K course comprised of two 5K loops, a quick mile fun run, and the Iron Turkey which is the 10K and 5K all at once. For more details and online registration, click here. 

7. Find your way through Coleman’s Corn Maze.

A trip to this family-owned and -operated farm includes three professionally designed corn mazes with 5 miles of challenging trails, hayrides, some of the best seasonal donuts in the region, a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, you-pick apples, a petting barn and more. Though these mazes aren’t haunted, you do have the opportunity to find your way through after dark, too—just don’t forget your flashlight!

8. Pick your own fruit at Wasem Fruit Farm. 

During the fall season, Wasem Fruit Farm offers more than a dozen varieties of apples you can pick yourself, you-pick raspberries available in September and early October, you-pick pumpkins in October, and pears! At the farm, you’ll also get the chance to taste plain, apple, blueberry and pumpkin donuts paired with some of the best, fresh cider in the region! For the most accurate hours and information, follow the team on Facebook here. 

9. Grab a beer at Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales. 

Photo courtesy of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales

Founded by Ron Jeffries in 2004, Jolly Pumpkin began in Dexter and now operates pubs and tap houses in Dexter, Ann Arbor, Detroit, Traverse City, Royal Oak, Grand Rapids and Chicago. Each location—whether full-service pub or casual taproom—offers its own character, menu and lineup of sour, artisanally aged Jolly Pumpkin beers. And it’s not only the name that has pumpkin in it. In 2017, they finally released a sour pumpkin ale made with pumpkin, a pumpkin spice blend and cacao nibs. To see what’s pouring right now nearest you, you can see all their locations here. 

To learn more about the area’s craft breweries, check out Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Craft Breweries in the Ann Arbor Area [Interactive Map].

10. Explore Nichols Arboretum. 

The University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum began in 1907 and has developed into miles of trails and land home to collections of both native and exotic trees and shrubs. These plants transform during the fall to showcase some of the best colors in Southeast Michigan, including golds, reds and even inky purples.

To find more fall foliage, check out The 11 Best Places to See Michigan’s Fall Colors Near Ann Arbor. 

Enjoy your fall! 

For more seasonal fun, check out The 11 Best Places to See Michigan’s Fall Colors Near Ann Arbor and 19 Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards and Cider Mills You Can Visit Near Ann Arbor. 

This week we are featuring Liz Rauser’s listing – 8510 Oak Ridge Trail, Dexter, MI 48130 Q. Can you describe the architectural style of the home?
Dramatic one and a half story home.

Q. What distinctive features set this home apart?
On a quiet road sits an all brick home on 4 acres. Over 4,500 sq. feet of quality with in-floor heat throughout to keep your toes toasty.

Q. What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?
Located five minutes to the quaint town of Dexter and 15 minutes to downtown Ann Arbor.

Q. Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?
All new spacious cook’s kitchen with beautiful quartz countertops, professional grade gas cooktop, double ovens, warming drawer and a breakfast area that looks out to a gorgeous landscaped vista.

Q. Does the community have any amenities we should know about?
A private wooded cul-de-sac of six custom-built homes.Q. What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?
An expansive beautiful stamped cement patio is covered for sitting out on rainy days to enjoy the 4 acres of nature.Q. What makes the price of this home so great?
It has endless amenities and has Webster Township taxes.

Q. Can you tell us a fun fact about the home?
The 3 car garage has a drain for each car stall.

Q. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?
In the lower level, you will find a large recreation room, fitness area, fireplace,
kitchenette/bar, 5th bedroom and full bathroom.

For more information about8510 Oak Ridge Trail, Dexter or if you are interested in scheduling a showing, please contact Liz Rauser at 734-544-5115.

Fall may bring us apple cider, pumpkin donuts and you-pick pumpkin patches, but it also brings us the scariest holiday on the calendar: Halloween! And our communities certainly know how to celebrate. Located in towns throughout Southeast Michigan, here are the most terrifying haunted attractions, including houses, mazes, forests and even virtual reality haunts. 

Keep reading to learn more about each one and see how many you can visit this October! 

For more autumn fun without the scares, check out 19 Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards and Cider Mills You Can Visit Near Ann Arbor. 

Night Terrors 

Ypsilanti | Get directions | Facebook

Michigan’s premier haunted attraction comes alive again this October. Open at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings through October 28th and then again on October 30th and 31st, Night Terrors features 89 acres of terror. The six haunted attractions include The Asylum, Hayrides of the Lost, The Ultimate Haunted Barn, The Mineshaft, Alien Caged Clowns and Splattertown Zombie Paintball; for all the details, click here. 

For more information on the less haunted fall attractions available at Wiard’s Orchard, check out 19 Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards and Cider Mills You Can Visit Near Ann Arbor.

Terrorfied Forest

Pinckney | Get directions | Facebook

The Terrorfied Forest is a real terrifying forest. Make a trip to this haunted attraction and you’ll journey into the woods for a one-mile, one-hour excursion with plenty of terror along the way. You can make your trip on weekends beginning September 27th through November 2nd. To see the complete schedule, click here. 

Erebus Haunted Attraction

Pontiac | Get directions | Facebook

Erebus is a four-story haunted tower of terror located in Downtown Pontiac. A trip here during the Halloween season means you’ll endure a half-mile indoor walk complete with state-of-the-art Hollywood special effects where things will bite you, grab you and even bury you alive! Think you can make it through? Check out the schedule and buy your tickets online here. 

Hush Haunted Attraction 

Westland | Get directions | Facebook

Video courtesy of Hush Haunted Attraction

Brimming with fearful atmosphere and spine-tingling scares, Hush strikes at your deepest and darkest fears. The haunted attraction includes three haunted houses. Descent invites you to take a trip under Hush into long stretches of abandoned mines and caverns complete with terrifying darkness and humanoid miners. The Coven will enter you into a crypt which houses the infamous Casper Coven, and Rosecliff Hall is a terrifyingly haunted manor. To read the stories behind each attraction, click here. 

Jackson’s Underworld 

Jackson | Get directions | Facebook

Enter Jackson’s Underworld and you’ll experience some of the most impressive animatronics and props in Michigan. This 115,000-square-foot and four-story haunt changes every single year and is always terrifying! To see the schedule and purchase tickets, click here. 

Awaken Haunted Attraction

Leslie | Get directions | Facebook

Not for the faint of heart, Awaken is a serious haunt with serious scares. Through their progression of professional sets, you’ll enter amazing scenes, get unexpected scares, encounter movie-set quality props and more, and that’s why parental guidance is recommended for anyone under 18. So, if you can handle the fright, check out their schedule here and get ready for a terrifying, one-of-a-kind horror experience. 

Plymouth Escape 

Plymouth | Get directions | Facebook

Unlike any other experience on this list, Plymouth Escape is offering a terrifying, haunted virtual reality game through the month of October. Enter the Insanitarium and you’ll experience Michigan’s first free-roaming VR in complete, immersive terror. To book now, click here. 

Rotten Manor 

Holly | Get directions | Facebook

Photo courtesy of Rotten Manor

Boasting the largest, most realistic custom structures in Michigan, Rotten Manor is a highly-detailed, theatrical and immersive haunted experience. This team puts together two 45-minute, haunted attractions every year—Rotten Manor and Rotten Asylum/Forest—and each one will put you face to face with your worst fears. They’re operating September 13th through November 2nd so you can get a full Halloween season of haunts! 

Azra Chamber of Horrors

Madison Heights | Get directions | Facebook

Located right next door to Escape Room-Zone (which is offering a few bone-chilling experiences, too!), Azra Chamber of Horrors is a crazy, multi-level maze of terror. And each chamber is more menacing than the last! To see the schedule and purchase tickets in advance, click here. 

The Scream Machine

Taylor | Get directions | Facebook 

When you step inside The Scream Machine, you’ll cross the threshold of insanity into the Asylum. The journey of approximately 20 to 30 minutes will bring you face to face with psychotic Dr. Scratch and other terrifying beings roaming the halls. After you make it through, you can enter two, optional five-minute escape rooms for added fun! 

Deranged Haunt 

Romulus | Get directions | Facebook 

About 20 minutes from Downtown Ypsi, Deranged Haunt offers five acres and two attractions—the haunted trail and the haunted house—for one low price. Can you survive what lurks in the woods? You can find out every Friday and Saturday from September 20th through Halloween! To get tickets online, check out the website here. 

Do you have a favorite haunt? 

Let us know in the comments below! 

Now that October has arrived, we’ve completely embraced the fall festivities—and so have our Ann Arbor area communities. This month’s lineup includes craft shows where you can shop fall treats and find the perfect holiday gifts, live concerts, fall festivals, and some of our most highly anticipated annual events.

Join the fun this October and attend an event in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Dexter and more! 

For more fall fun, check out 19 Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards and Cider Mills You Can Visit Near Ann Arbor. 

Jump ahead:

Arts + Culture | Community Celebrations | Sports | Food + Drink

Arts + Culture

Arts + Culture 

Westside Art Hop | Ann Arbor

October 6, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Old West Side

Westside Art Hop is presented as Michigan’s quirkiest Art Walk. The twice-yearly event showcases high-quality arts and crafts for sale to the public in a festive atmosphere. While exploring the Old West Side neighborhood, you can peruse artworks, meet the artists, find decor for your home, and shop holiday gifts!

Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra | Ypsilanti 

October 6, 3:30 p.m. | Towsley Auditorium 

The Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra was started by a small group of friends and musicians who gathered at Abe’s Coney Island and was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1999. Today, they host several concert events throughout the year at Towsley Auditorium on the Washtenaw Community College campus. You can catch the season premiere on October 6th! For more details, follow the team on Facebook here. 

Fiber Expo | Ann Arbor 

October 12 – 13 | Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds

Once during the spring and again during the fall, the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds are filled with fiber products of all kinds. Come by to shop, learn and meet the makers of wool, linen and cotton crafts, see real alpacas and more! Children 12 years and under are admitted for free, while adults pay just $4 cash for one day or $6 for two.

Edgefest | Ann Arbor 

October 16 – 19 | Kerrytown Concert House

Edgefest began in 1997 as a single-day event and has grown into a four-day festival that includes collaborations and educational outreach, the Edgefest Parade and so much more. Hosted annually by Kerrytown Concert House, the event is focused on avant-garde jazz and creative new music performed by artists from the United States and around the globe. For ticket information, click here. 

Ann Arbor Annual Arts & Crafts Show | Ann Arbor

October 19, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | New Grace Apostolic Temple

Photo Courtesy of the Ann Arbor Annual Arts & Crafts Show

This juried arts and crafts show costs just $2 for guests over 12 years old and includes shopping from more than 60 artists and crafters, kid-friendly attractions, access to food concessions and baked goods, door prizes and more. The show is celebrating its 11th anniversary in 2019 so don’t miss out on the fun!

Ann Arbor Antiques Market | Ann Arbor

October 19 – 20, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. (Saturday) + 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Sunday) | Washtenaw Farm Council  

Established in 1968, this historic antique market has been fueling our love of home decor and vintage finds for more than 50 years. Admission is $6 with free parking and kids are admitted for free! Come by in October to shop antiques, jewelry, paintings, mid-century and industrial design, folk art, repurposed furniture and more. It’s the perfect place to get some holiday shopping done!

Celebrations

Community Celebrations 

Apple Daze Festival | Dexter

October 5, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Monument Park

Hosted by the Dexter Lions Club in Downtown Dexter, Apple Daze invites the community to enjoy local apples and apple products, participate in apple pie-eating contests, take the family on festive hayrides, and shop craft booths from local vendors and artists. For event updates, check out the Facebook event here.

Monster Mash | Ypsilanti

October 12, 12 – 3 p.m. | Rolling Hills County Park

One of four festive events this month, the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission is hosting Monster Mash on October 12th in Rolling Hills Park. Wear your costumes, feel free to bring your friendly, leashed dogs, and get ready for kid-friendly activities for all ages, including a candy hunt, a costume contest, face painting, hayrides, a pumpkin patch and more. 

For more Halloween fun, check out Halloween Hootenanny on October 6th, Halloween Bash on October 26th and Pumpkin Smash on the Saturday after Halloween. 

ypsiGLOW | Ypsilanti

October 25, 7 p.m. | Downtown Ypsilanti  

From the same team that brings us FestiFools and FoolMoon every April, ypsiGLOW is a light-filled celebration through Downtown Ypsi. In the weeks leading up to the event, local artists, businesses and organizations host GLOWorkshops so you can create your own luminary and costume. Then, you can join the community on October 25th for a celebration of Ypsilanti and art! Follow the team on Facebook here to get updates on workshops.

Sports

Sports

University of Michigan Homecoming | Ann Arbor

October 5, 12 p.m. | Michigan Stadium 

The University of Michigan faces off against the University of Iowa on October 5th for this year’s homecoming game. The Wolverines also play Notre Dame at home on October 26th! You can see the full football schedule here.

Glow Disc Golf Tournament | Whitmore Lake

October 25, 6 – 11 p.m. | Independence Lake County Park

For the fourth year, this after-hours disc golf tournament is returning to Independence Lake County Park! The 18 holes will be lit by glow sticks and $30 registration includes park entry and a player pack. For all the details, click here. 

Food + Drink

Food + Drink 

Art & Brew | Ann Arbor 

October 10, 5:30 – 9 p.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor 

Photo courtesy of the Ann Arbor Art Center

Hosted by Ann Arbor Art Center and various downtown businesses, Art & Brew is a celebration of local food and drink and a competition for the best food and beer pairing. When you buy your $60 ticket, you’ll be invited to join the bar crawl traveling to each participating restaurant to taste their beer and snack pairings, to create your own art at each one, and then to vote for your favorite pairing. See the participating venues, buy tickets, and get more information here.  

West Cross Hard Cider Festival | Ypsilanti 

October 12, 1 – 5 p.m. | College Place 

This 21+ event brings together 15 Michigan hard cider makers and eight West Cross businesses for a fall tradition of epic proportions. You can see the participating businesses here and purchase tickets online here. 

Chefs in the Garden | Ypsilanti  

October 13, 5 – 8 p.m. | Growing Hope Urban Farm 

Hosted by and benefitting Growing Hope, the Chefs in the Garden series brings together local charity, local food and urban farm education. The three-part dinner series features well-known, local culinary talent at each event occurring on September 15th, September 29th and October 13th. The last event of the series is scheduled for October 13th with Chef Brandon Johns of Grange Kitchen & Bar with dessert from Sweet Heather Anne. For details and tickets, click here.

Happy October! 

This week we are featuring Shannon Baer’s listing – 3601 Lamplighter Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Q. Can you describe the architectural style of the home?
This 1960’s quad-level home has 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths, is almost 3,000 square feet and is situated on a private acre.

Q. What distinctive features set this home apart?
This is a unique opportunity to own a home on a serene lot that is close to town. The home comes with an in-law suite with a private entrance that could be a first-floor master suite.
Q. What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?
The home is located on a secluded cul de sac with no through traffic and yet only minutes from Vets Park, Plum Market, and many other shops. Extra safe for bike riding children and surrounded by nature.

Q. Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?
A new roof and freshly painted exterior are only the beginning of the upgrades. The kitchen is updated with stainless steel appliances and new cabinets. Additionally, there is a newly installed air conditioning unit that vents to the bedrooms.

Q. What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?
The home is surrounded by coniferous and deciduous trees so there are views of nature from all windows and tons of privacy!

Q. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?
Neatly manicured perennial gardens line the brick walkway. The new back deck and treehouse are especially lovely features!

For more information about 3601 Lamplighter Drive, Ann Arbor or if you are interested in scheduling a showing, please contact Shannon Baer at 734-544-5115.

Michigan game day is one of your favorite days and one of the most important in Ann Arbor. Complemented by tons of pre-game tailgates, game-day specials at our favorite hangouts, and the best fight song in college football history, after just one game day in Ann Arbor, this will become your favorite holiday, too. 

To make sure you can navigate all the excitement, we created this tailgating guide—complete with information on where to park and find tailgates, where to watch the game outside The Big House, where to buy your U-M merch, and where to keep celebrating afterward. And remember, Go Blue forever! 

For details on tailgating policies and procedures, click here, and for the Michigan Football schedule, click here. 

Jump ahead:

The Most Popular Tailgating Areas | The Best Places to Watch on Screen | What to Wear on Game Day | Where to Go After the Game

Tailgating

The Most Popular Tailgating Areas

Whether you’re parking or just looking for a pre-game party, you’ll find plenty of areas to do it, but be aware ahead of time that parking can cost $30 to $60 to $180 and more. To read tailgating policies and procedures and make sure you’re following the rules, click here. When you follow that link, you can also find a detailed map of parking areas. 

University of Michigan Golf Course

Located south of The Big House, the U-M Golf Course is one of the most popular places for tailgating on game day. Although RVs, trailers, pets and glass containers aren’t allowed, you can park regular vehicles and set up all your tailgating accessories within the designated areas. 

Ann Arbor Golf & Outing Club 

Located directly across Stadium Boulevard from the south end of the stadium, AAGOC offers convenient public parking for U-M football and basketball games. On football game days, public parking is first come, first served, but a limited number of reserved spots are also available through Park n Party here. For full AAGOC parking info, click here. 

Blue Lot 

This lot is available for RVs and vehicles with permits only, but open to foot traffic. That means many season ticket holders and Michigan fans who have been attending games for decades set up shop here, but everyone is welcome to peruse the tailgates and join the fun. 

Pioneer High School

One of three lots open to RVs, Pioneer High School opens on Game Day Fridays for RVs with permits and other vehicles on a first come, first served basis. These daily passes and reservations are available through Michigan Event Parking, and we recommend checking out their website here before game day. 

Brown Lot

Located south of the golf course at the Varsity Tennis Center, this lot offers cash-only permits on the day of the game and is open to RVs which can stay until noon on Sunday. 

Sports Bars

The Best Places to Watch on Screen 

If you didn’t get a ticket in time, you can still catch all the action on screen at a local hangout. For the full list of favorite sports bars which includes options in surrounding towns, too, check out The 13 Best Sports Bars in the Ann Arbor Area. 

The Pretzel Bell

Photo courtesy of The Pretzel Bell

After P Bell opened in 1934, it became the campus watering hole for more than 50 years, feeding and hydrating students, townies and visitors alike. After a brief closing, the doors reopened to become one of A2’s most beloved spots—complete with gourmet pub food, craft beer and cocktails, and more than 30 TVs tuned into every Michigan football, baseball, hockey and basketball game available! Game day attractions include drink specials, a game room with pong, Jenga and darts, late-night live DJs on Fridays and Saturdays, and more. 

Fraser’s Pub

Jimmy and Red Fraser first opened this neighborhood bar in 1962 and it’s been the A2 go-to ever since. The taps feature multiple Michigan beers, the menu includes all the bar favorites cooked up with style, and the TVs fill the whole place so you’ll never miss the action. Be sure to wear your blue and maize or you may feel left out. Go Blue! 

Scorekeepers

Especially popular amongst the younger crowd, Scorekeepers boasts more than 30 beers on tap, 17 flat screens, and a food lineup that includes bratwursts, nachos, sliders, burgers and waffle fries. They’ve been around for decades and have always been a go-to game day spot, for obvious reasons.

Good Time Charley’s

Good Time Charley’s opened its doors in 1979, the first U-M student walked in, and the rest was history. It’s located right across the street from the university and offers a parking structure, making it one of the easiest places to get to before the game starts. We recommend ordering a plate of Pepperoni Styx, hand-twisted breadsticks stuffed with mozzarella and pepperoni and topped with garlic and parmesan. Then, get ready to cheer!

Gear

What to Wear on Game Day 

When in doubt, put on your maize and blue. Some games may encourage maize-outs inside the stadium, but you can’t go wrong with any Wolverine merch. To find out where to buy yours, keep reading. 

The M Den 

The M Den is the official retailer of Michigan Athletics, which means you can find branded clothing for women, men and kids, Michigan Nike products, hats, furniture and home decor, autographed memorabilia, toys, jewelry, pet accessories and more. You can shop online here or stop by one of five Ann Arbor locations to shop in person.

Bo 

Inspired by and named after Bo Schembechler, the University of Michigan head football coach from 1969 to 1989, Bo is a store built by and for Wolverines. In the Main Street shop, you can purchase clothing and hats, mugs and glasses, posters and vinyl decals, and basically everything you need to show your Michigan pride. To shop online, click here.

After

Where to Go After the Game

If you want to keep celebrating after the game is over, you’ll have plenty of options, especially along Main Street and State Street in downtown Ann Arbor. For super late nights, check out our guide The 13 Best Places to Eat After Midnight in Ann Arbor. 

Grizzly Peak Brewing Co.

Photo courtesy of Grizzly Peak Brewing Co.

A landmark in downtown Ann Arbor, Grizzly Peak began serving craft beer in August of 1995 from their century-old building. The kitchen produces scratch-made pub eats and the brewhouse produces classic beers in a wide range of styles. To see what’s on tap right now, click here, and be sure to celebrate with a pint of Victors’ Gold after the game! You can also order Party Platters which feed 8 to 10 people and your dogs are welcome to party on the patio with their own menu of snacks! Check it out here.

Wolverine State Brewing Co.

Wolverine State Brewing’s flagship beer, Wolverine Premium Lager, was born out of a desire for an outstanding, approachable beer that was true to Michigan character. Today, this Ann Arbor craft brewery is still operating as the first and only all-lager microbrewery in the state of Michigan. That means, when you stop in, you’ll get the opportunity to explore absolutely everything a lager can do—from the solid, approachable flagship to innovative, ingredient-driven and aged creations. They’re open until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays!

Dominick’s 

When you think Dominick’s, you think great patio and even better sangria. Since opening in 1960, this locally owned spot has been the go-to for locals, students, families, you name it! Grab a seat on game day and keep the fun going with potent sangria and Italian-inspired eats. 

Ashley’s 

A Downtown Ann Arbor tradition since 1983, Ashley’s is a must-visit on game day—especially if you love craft microbrews! Throughout the year, their rotating taps offer more than 1,000 different beers made right here in Michigan, all around the country and all around the globe. Pair that with a meal of pesto fries and fish and chips, and you’ll have a new favorite in town. 

Do you have a game day tip?

Share it in the comments below!

This week we are featuring Megan Mazurek’s listing – 1919 Dexter Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Q. What distinctive features set this home apart?
Recently updated, this 3 bedroom home features hardwoods throughout and a large living room with wood-burning fireplace adding a pop of color and built-in shelves. Outside the dining room, you’ll find a new patio, large fenced-in yard and 1-car garage.

Q. What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?
In an ideal location on Ann Arbor’s Old West Side, this house is near downtown Ann Arbor, Vets Park, the Ann Arbor Skatepark, Knight’s Steakhouse as well as other restaurants, shopping and the expressway.

Q. Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?
The lower level was recently finished, providing additional living space, a new washer and dryer, and a second full bathroom. The kitchen features newer stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and a large sink. The second floor bathroom was also updated with new floors, vanity and repainted.

Q. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?
There are stairs in one of the bedrooms leading to the 240 sq ft attic providing plenty of additional storage space.

Come to the Open House on Sunday, September 8th from 2 pm to 4 pm.

For more information about 1919 Dexter Avenue, Ann Arbor or if you are interested in scheduling a showing, please contact Megan Mazurek at 734-645-4296.

Though you can always enjoy a crisp, hard cider around here, Michigan’s apple season is August through October, which makes fall the ideal season for it. After all, it is a lovely combination of our passion for craft beer and our favorite autumn crop.

In this guide, we rounded up some of the state’s best hard cider makers, located near our home in Ann Arbor and farther out. Where available, we added links so you can find these beverages on tap, bottled or canned closer to home, wherever that may be. Happy sipping!

B. Nektar

Based in Ferndale

Founded by a fun-loving team in 2006, B. Nektar brings a modern, sub-pop culture-inspired twist to everything they create, from the mead that has made them famous to every cider and craft beer on their tap list. And we’re proud to say this little Michigan operation was the first meadery named to the top 100 best breweries in the world by Ratebeer.com! To find out where you can get bottles closer to home, click here.

Blake’s Hard Cider Co.

Based in Armada

The team behind Blake’s Hard Cider has been growing apple trees for more than 70 years. Today, they have 45,600 apple trees on their property in 42 different varieties and they use those backyard harvests to create more than 60 varieties of hard cider. Their tasting room has been named one of the best bars in America, but if you can’t make it to Armada, click here to locate Blake’s sold near you.

Bløm Meadworks

Based in Ann Arbor

Photo courtesy of Bløm Meadworks

Bløm (pronounced bloom) is a hyper-local meadery located in the heart of Ann Arbor. Unlike many other meaderies and cideries, every ingredient is sourced from Michigan and their mead is fermented like a dry craft cider so it’s not as thick or as sweet as other meads you may have tried. On the tap list, you’ll also find straight-up ciders, all carefully crafted with subtle, delicious tasting notes. To shop cans online, click here.

Cherry Creek

Based in Brooklyn

Nestled in the Irish Hills, this family-owned winery honors over 100 years of winemaking knowledge passed down through four generations. Inside their historic 1870 schoolhouse tasting room and seasonal café, you can sip award-winning grape wines, fruit wines and ciders, sample freshly made butter fudge, taste their Michigan Cherry Preserves, and more! To see their wine and cider list, which has included things like Cinnamon Ginger Cider and Root Beer Cider, click here.

Farmhaus Cider Co.

Based in Hudsonville

Photo courtesy of Farmhaus Cider Co.

In 1866, Claus Behrens, an immigrant from Germany, purchased 200 acres in Hudsonville, built a farmhouse and planted an apple orchard. Decades later, two generations of the Behrens family, with the business owners’ family and friends, worked nights and weekends to restore the property and, in March 2015, Farmhaus Cider Co. celebrated their first canning run. Today, they operate the Farmhaus Cidergarten on site at the 150-year-old family farm and distribute throughout the state. Click here to find out where you can get it.

Northville Winery & Brewing Co.

Based in Northville

Photo courtesy of Northville Winery & Brewing Co.

This hometown spot makes all their wine, hard cider and beer on-site and is open year-round with frequent live music events and a delectable calendar of local food trucks stopping by. To see what’s on tap and what events are coming up, check out the website here, and be sure to make a visit during the fall so you can visit Parmenter’s Northville Cider Mill, too!

Sierra Rose

Based in Grand Rapids

Sierra Rose is a program of Grand Rapids’ Cascade Winery. Making everything in small batches, they start with 100% apples and ferment the cider at cold temperatures to maintain distinct, crisp flavors. Then, they use their history of innovation, skill and creativity to create flavors like Peach, Strawberry and Blueberry Hard Ciders.

St. Ambrose Cellars

Based in Beulah

The St. Ambrose story starts with 40 years of beekeeping and a passion for mead. Later, they dabbled in cider, then added beer and pizza, and now they’re one of the best craft beverage makers in the state. On-site, you’ll find a nine-hole disc golf course, a bocce ball court, yard games and a bee garden, but you can also find their beverages in stores across the country and shop their online store here. To track down St. Ambrose near you, click here.

St. Julian

Based in Paw Paw

St. Julian has been owned and operated by the same family for four generations, and through those generations, they’ve become Michigan’s most awarded and longest-running winery. They also use only Michigan fruit to create each distilled spirit, cider and wine in their lineup. To locate these award-winning products, click here.

Starcut Ciders

Based in Bellaire

Starcut Ciders comes from the famous, award-winning team behind Short’s Brewing Company. Founded in 2014, this project was born out of a desire to make unique ciders using Michigan’s abundant apple harvests, including apples from local farmers whose orchards are close to their home in Antrim county. To purchase nearby, click here.

Uncle John’s Cider Mill

Based in St. Johns

Photo courtesy of Uncle John’s Cider Mill

Historically, Uncle John’s was a wholesale fruit and vegetable farm but has been transformed since the 1970s into a destination for family fun—especially during the fall when the cider mill is running and fresh donuts are being made! From May through December, you can also stop in the Uncle John’s Fruit House Cidery and Winery Tasting Room to taste wines, spirits, premium ciders, and hard cider in cans and on draft. Throughout the year, you can also shop cans in stores throughout the Great Lakes region.

Unity Vibration

Based in Ypsilanti

Dedicated to health, unity and community, this Ypsi favorite serves up kombucha tea, kombucha beer and a few kombucha cider hybrids. Similar to a Lambic fermented in oak-barrels with hops and whole fruits, Unity kombucha beers are gluten-free, vegan, organic, bottle conditioned and raw. So whether you’re craving a belly-friendly tea or a unique craft beer, visit the taproom to try a small-batch and handmade beverage. To find their creations near you, click here.

Vander Mill

Based in Grand Rapids

A founding member of the Michigan Cider Association, Vander Mill started from humble beginnings in 2006 inside a small, 5,000-square-foot building. Today, they’ve grown to distribute their hard cider varieties throughout the Great Lakes region, but they still press only Michigan apples and even work with the Dietrich family apple farm located nearby in West Michigan. To locate their hard ciders closer to your home, click here.

Virtue Cider

Based in Fennville

Practicing traditional craftsmanship and sustainable methods, using the finest apples grown in orchards with just the right climate, and handpicking their apples and their barrels, the team behind Virtue Cider crafts proper farmhouse cider. Like the art of winemaking, they press local fruit, ferment the juice on site, age it in barrels, and continually taste to develop the perfect blends. You can get more information on finding their beverages locally here.

Do you have a favorite?

Whether it’s on our list or not, tell us about your favorite Michigan hard cider in the comments below!

For decades, Ann Arbor has been defined by its artists, creators and innovators—from the artwork they create to the green practices they put to work and everything in between. Through the work of our residential designers and architects, this passion for aesthetic and creativity can be brought to life inside our most precious spaces: our homes. 

And in this guide, we’re writing about our favorite local designers and artists who are doing just that. Get ready for a healthy dose of home inspiration!

Angelini & Associates Architects 

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Jeff Garland of Jeff Garland Photography via Angelini & Associates Architects

Established in 1989 by Bradford and Theresa Angelini, Angelini & Associates Architects has been Ann Arbor’s high-quality, innovative and award-winning architecture firm for three decades. Through those decades, the team has produced designs for more than 500 projects, including additions, renovations and new constructions in the Ann Arbor area and throughout Michigan. To view their online portfolio, click here. 

Architectural Resource 

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

The team behind Architectural Resource knows how important our living spaces are, and they have since they first came together in 1991. From the beginning, they decided to focus exclusively on residential architecture so they would continuously get the opportunity to work closely and intimately with clients and create those essential spaces. This has resulted in some of the region’s most beautiful homes featuring everything from historic Victorian remodels to brand new, sustainable and modern farmhouses. 

Damian Farrell Design Group 

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Kate Benjamin Photography via Damian Farrell Design Group

At Damian Farrell Design Group, they have expertise and experience in nearly every field from residential and commercial to niche industries like resorts and healthcare facilities. In the commercial space, they’ve been responsible for bright, modern and innovative Ann Arbor spaces like Baba Dari Mediterranean Grill and Ann Arbor Arms. And this translates to their residential projects, too, which show off their diversity of skills and styles; you can see that portfolio here. 

Hobbs+Black Architects

Based in Ann Arbor | Facebook

The team behind Hobbs+Black believes in showcasing the identity of each individual client, not the identity of their designers. As a result, they don’t have a defined style, but rather use more than 50 years of experience to dabble in every style and create truly one-of-a-kind spaces each client is happy to live, work and play in. And that experience has covered nearly every industry, from the Westgate Branch of Ann Arbor District Library to unique residential projects throughout the region.

Lewis Greenspoon Architects

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

At LGA, the team specializes in both residential and commercial building types, including single-family and multi-family housing, community and civic buildings as well as professional and medical office spaces. Through these diverse experiences, they’ve created award-winning projects, including their winning design for the Michigan Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Lansing. The team’s residential portfolio also showcases diverse styles in new construction, full remodels, kitchen and bath remodels, and even stylish outdoor living spaces. To view some of these projects online, click here. 

Meadowlark Design + Build 

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Sean Carter Photography via Meadowlark Design + Build 

Shown in each of their buildings and mentioned in nearly every review, Meadowlark homes are truly one of a kind and easy to spot for their craft, unique character, innovation and warmth. And that makes sense coming from a team dedicated not only to building our most intimate spaces but also to improving their clients’ lives. The best part is Meadowlark is also one of the nation’s leading green builders, and they hold more LEED Platinum custom home certifications than any other builder in the region! 

Meier Group Architects

Based in Ann Arbor and Adrian | Houzz

In 2000, William Meier AIA founded Meier Group Architects with the goal of creating a firm where he and his team could provide excellent architectural design service for a variety of project types. Today, they’ve become one of the best in the region thanks to their beautiful structures that are functional, aesthetic, affective, enduring and efficient all at once. To view their residential portfolio, click here.

Molly Bachelor Architect

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz

Based in the Water Hill neighborhood of Ann Arbor, Molly Bachelor is an Ann Arbor native and a graduate of the University of Michigan. Her services include full-service architectural design, residential energy consulting and interiors, which has allowed her to create high-performance renovations and additions as well as stunning custom homes throughout the area. To preview some of that work online, click here. 

OX Studio

Based in Ann Arbor | Facebook 

When you look through this firm’s online portfolio, you’ll probably recognize some of Ann Arbor’s most beloved spaces, including Black Diesel Coffee and Tomukun Korean BBQ. Rooted in the true integration of architecture, design and game-changing technologies, these spaces—and every other residential and commercial project they touch—are collaborative, innovative, cost-efficient and high-tech. To see that applied to residential projects, view their portfolio here. 

Quinn Evans Architects

Based in Ann Arbor + other locations | Facebook

An authority in preservation and sustainable stewardship, QEA was founded as a two-man studio in 1984. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving, multi-faceted firm with four full-service offices in Washington, DC, Baltimore, Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Richmond, Virginia, as well as a studio in Madison, Wisconsin. Here in Ann Arbor, their specialty in preservation has made them especially noted for work with historic homes.

Rochman Design Build

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Rochman Design Build

This nationally recognized, award-winning design-build firm, has been delivering innovative remodeling solutions since 1989. Through their specialization in mid to large residential remodeling and home additions, they’ve created truly transformative spaces (and amazing before and after photos!) that reflect each individual client’s lifestyle without sacrificing function or aesthetic. And it helps that this team—including founding partner Gary Rochman—is driven by the relationships developed with each and every client, so the journey is as enjoyable as the finished product. 

Studio Z Architecture

Based in Plymouth | Houzz | Facebook 

The team at Studio Z is driven by their commitment to designing and building one-of-a-kind homes that match each client’s personality, lifestyle and functional needs. In addition to a huge catalog of happy clients, they also won awards and national recognition for these builds here in Southeast Michigan and beyond. To view some of those online, check out their portfolio here. 

Synecdoche Design Studio 

Based in Ann Arbor | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Synecdoche Design Studio

Synecdoche is a small, start-up-style design/make architecture studio and the team uses this to their advantage to create quickly, nimbly and efficiently. This has also resulted in a unique style that can be spotted at places around town like Bløm Meadworks, Thrive Juicery, Spencer and Ann Arbor Pharmacy. In the residential space, you’ll find a similar playfulness and a modern aesthetic that includes individual furniture and designs created right in their studio. Click here to see some of those pieces—from pivot doors to rolling counters and everything in between. 

Wright Street Design Group Inc.

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz 

One of the area’s most recognized firms, Wright Street Design does absolutely everything in the residential design space: new, custom homes, full renovations, additions, kitchen and bath remodels, home theaters, outdoor living spaces, custom furniture, and even green architecture. And they’ve been doing it since Stanley Monroe founded Wright Street Design Group in 1986. To view their online portfolio, click here. 

Do you have a favorite?

Whether they’re on this list or not, tell us about your experience in the comments below!  

This week we are featuring Elizabeth Brien’s listing – 1158 Baldwin Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Q. Can you describe the architectural style of the home?
It is an Arts and Crafts-style home with beautiful woodwork & trim, 9’ ceilings on the first floor plus cathedral ceiling in the addition.

Q. What distinctive features set this home apart?
The home, showcasing Arts & Crafts style, is on a large corner lot across the street from Burns Park, one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Ann Arbor. At over 4,000 square feet, there’s plenty of space for a family to spread out. Other highlights include four very large bedrooms and a beautiful formal living/dining room addition with vaulted ceilings, huge kitchen/breakfast room, tons of built-ins, and an attached library.

Q. What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?
The house overlooks Burns Park and is a two-minute walk to the elementary school. Burns Park is a vibrant, family-oriented community with strong annual traditions including the best Halloween celebration in town, 4th of July fireworks, the Burns Park 5K, and more. Also, it’s just a short walk or bike/bus ride from the University and downtown. There is a private gate to the backyard, right across from the park – very kid friendly.

Q. Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?
The current owners installed central air conditioning, upgraded the electric & panels throughout, upgraded the master bathroom, repainted the whole interior, and completed new grading and drainage outside.Q. Does the community have any amenities we should know about?
In addition to Burns Park, the house is walking distance to Tappan Middle School, Nichols Arboretum, and Michigan Stadium. Burns Park is popular with sidewalks and friendly neighbors.

Q. What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?
The house overlooks Burns Park with a nice front lawn.

Q. What makes the price of this home so great?
There are very few homes of this size in Burns Park and even fewer at this price point that don’t require extensive renovations and upgrades. There are two updated baths on the second floor now (with room for a master bath if desired).

Q. Can you tell us a fun fact about the home?
The previous owners loved the old-fashioned laundry chute. The rec room in the basement was perfect for their ping pong table too.

Q. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?
The house is great for both entertaining and for daily living in the way its layout accommodates privacy and togetherness. It combines the charm of an older home with the functionality and space of a more modern home, including a nice first-floor study, library and a nice office niche.

For more information about 1158 Baldwin Ave, Ann Arbor or if you are interested in scheduling a showing, please contact Elizabeth Brien at 734-645-4444.