Detroit cider mills are open for business, and there is plenty of cider, donuts and hayrides to go around. Despite the early thaw and freeze this spring and an unseasonably dry summer, Detroit farmers have found creative ways to make up for lost crops to ensure that your family can still enjoy the traditional fall visit to the cider mill. Many farmers are purchasing apples from outside farms while others have made clever arrangements such as adding new u-pick options. This year you can show your support for local farmers while enjoying one of the proudest seasonal traditions that is simply Pure Michigan. Here is just a small sampling of some of the areas finest cider mills —

Plymouth Orchards - Since 1977, Plymouth Orchards has served the local community and curious tourists with wagon rides, u-pick pumpkins, petting zoo, pies, cider, donuts and caramel apples. And if you need a quick in-and-out, their Ann Arbor Road Market has all the same homemade pies, snacks and drinks as the main mill.

Franklin Cider Mill displays an oversized pumpkin.

Parmenter’s Northville Cider Mill - With a tradition that dates back to 1873, Parmenter’s makes everything from apple cider to fudge to pumpkin butter to summer sausage. Parmenter's also features their very own Northville Winery, as well as the Chow Mill, serving cotton candy and hot dogs on the weekends.

Franklin Cider Mill - Completed in 1837, the same year Michigan became a state, this historic cider mill in Franklin sells, among other products, cider, candy apples, baked goods, honey, pumpkins, jams and butters. They’re also famous in the area for their cinnamon spice donuts.

Westview Orchards – This 188-acre farm in Washington Township features homegrown u-pick fruit, state-of-the-art cider mill, bakery and a nighttime corn maze. And for those of us who enjoy ice cream year round there’s a converted one-room schoolhouse that sells ice cream and candies, open daily from Sept. 5 to Oct. 31.

Blake Farms – Family-owned and operated since 1946, Blake Farms is one of Macomb’s most popular fall attractions, featuring a cider mill, more than 500 acres of u-pick fruits and vegetables, and entertainment such as train rides, pony rides, hayrides and corn mazes. And if you like your cider mills spooky, Blake Farms offers haunted hayrides and a haunted barn.

Yates Cider Mill - Ranked among the best cider mills in the U.S. by Forbes Traveler and featured on the Food Network, this Rochester mainstay since 1863 offers donuts and cider, as well as baked goods and pies. Kids activities include a petting zoo and pony rides. See how they do it —

Did we leave your favorite Detroit cider mill off the list? Let us know where you go for cider... or donuts... or animals and rides.