Bloomington, Indiana

Cider Sipping in Southwest Michigan

Coloma, Michigan–Grandpa’s Cider Mill temps visitors with free samples, a window to the cider milling process, and tasty baked goods as well. Just off I-94,  Grandpa’s Cider Mill sits at the edge of Friday Road surrounded by groves of apple trees. It’s open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Outside, check out the collection of large metal dinosaur sculptures.

The cider wasn’t being made during our visit, but samples were offered, including hot mulled cider and two cold varieties. The baked goods include homemade donuts, cheery and apple pies, and numerous jellies, salsas, and other treats to sample.

Southcentral and Southwest Michigan is known for its apple trees and cider, a rich heritage that goes back more than a hundred years in farming families, though they usually made a hard cider. Unfortunately, there aren’t any hard cider varieties sold at Grandpa’s, but if you want to try a stronger brew, the Contessa Wine Cellars just down the road also has free tastings from noon to 5 p.m. Enjoy!