It's that time of year again when the air gets crisper, the leaves start to turn, and the sweet scent of ripe apples fills the Michigan countryside. But this year, Michigan has something extra special to celebrate - not one, but two of its apple orchards have made the list of the Top 10 Orchards in the Nation. 

Banana 101.5 logo
Get our free mobile app

USA Today recently released its 10Best Reader's Choice list of the best places across the county to indulge in one of fall's most delicious staples. USA Today reports more than 20,000 growers are producing apples across all 50 states, according to the U.S. Apple Association. That adds up to around 255 million bushels of apples each year across the U.S., so making the list is pretty impressive.

Michigan Apple Orchards Ranked Best in Nation

Two Michigan favorites gained some national attention landing on the tasty list this year. Coming in at #8 was Crane Orchards in Fennville, Michigan on the west side of the state.

"The tiny city of Fennville, Michigan has served as a home base for Crane Orchards since the 19th century, with operations dating back to the 1880s. Now on their sixth generation of farmers, the property earns abundant local acclaim, thanks to their on-site restaurant and pie shop. The fall season brings the opportunity for apple picking alongside corn mazes, hayrides, and a kids' cow train".

Just a slot above landing at #7 is the always-popular Spicer's Orchard in Fenton, Michigan. Spicer's is one of those Michigan gems that will have the cars lined up continually through the fall season welcoming families that have made the spot a fall tradition.

"At Spicer Orchards, wagons take visitors into the orchards to pick apples and berries. The fall season also means hot apple cider and cider doughnuts. A Harvest Festival in mid-September features a craft fair and antique tractors".

Whether you're a local Michigander or an apple aficionado traveling from afar, these two orchards represent the pinnacle of apple-picking perfection.

So, grab the family and friends, and head to one of Michigan's best for an apple-picking experience like no other. With these orchards in the spotlight, it's the perfect time to savor the all sweetness of fall in the Great Lakes State.

View the full list of the Top 10 Apple Orchards in America here. 

LOOK: 20 American foods that raise eyebrows outside of the US

Stacker compiled a list of 20 unusual and uniquely American foods that might raise eyebrows outside the U.S.

 

The 100 Best Places to Live in the Midwest

 

 

More From Banana 101.5