Michigan Fall Getaways: Color, Cider, and Cozy Adventures

Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite ways to experience Michigan in the fall, guiding you through vibrant destinations, honest tips, and a few under-the-radar gems for the season. Whether you have a weekend or a week, you'll get practical ideas that balance structure with plenty of room for discovery.

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The episode opens with Mackinac Island, recently voted the number one fall destination in the US by USA Today readers. Christopher and Ashleigh recall their own late-October trip, noting that even past peak color, the island was stunning—proving flexibility in timing can still yield a beautiful escape. If you’re looking for detailed Mackinac tips, they’ve covered it extensively in previous episodes. Here's the full list:

• Mackinac Island shines as a top fall destination—beautiful even after peak foliage.
• Sleeping Bear Dunes and Empire Bluff Trail are musts for hikers and nature lovers.
• Munising boasts easy access to Pictured Rocks and some of Michigan’s best waterfalls.
• Apple picking and cider mill visits are classic Michigan fall activities; Blake’s and Uncle John’s are favorites, but locals and visitors alike can find great spots statewide.
• Camping becomes easier to book after Labor Day, with state park amenities often open well into fall—Ludington, Wilderness, and Tawas Point are good bets. Book at MiDNRReservations.com

During a relaxed wine break, Christopher shares a Chianti Classico from Fattoria Montemaggio, enjoyed earlier at a family lunch. He explains the nuances of the Chianti Classico region and grape blend, encouraging listeners to rediscover this traditional Italian red—especially with a hearty meal.

Rounding out the conversation, Ashleigh and Christopher point to other fall gems: Tahquamenon Falls (with both impressive upper and picturesque lower falls), the scenic M-22 drive and wineries of the Leelanau Peninsula, Brockway Mountain Drive near Copper Harbor for dramatic vistas, and a suite of autumn festivals and Halloween events across the state. They also note that southern Michigan and Metro Detroit offer plenty of cider mills and hiking spots for those wanting to stay closer to home.

• Tahquamenon Falls is a favorite for camping and waterfall walks amid peak color.
• Leelanau Peninsula’s M-22 drive and wineries are especially lovely in autumn.
• Fall colors arrive earliest in the western Upper Peninsula and last into November in southern Michigan, making it possible to chase foliage for weeks.
• Don’t miss local Halloween festivals like Greenfield Village’s Halowe'en and Romeo’s “Terror on Tilson.”

For honest, practical inspiration on planning your own Michigan fall adventure—without the tourist traps—tune in to this episode of the Go See Do Explore Podcast.