Where to Have Fun on the Farm in Central Michigan
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The agricultural legacy of Central Michigan is alive and well in its abundance of agritourism experiences that are available to the public all year long. “The Saginaw Valley has a rich agricultural history,” says Dianna Stampfler, president of Promote Michigan.
Sugar beets and dry beans are historically among the top crops in the region, but the agricultural landscape has expanded to include a variety of produce including wine grapes, pumpkins, apples, sunflowers and tulips. Ready to have fun on the farm in Central Michigan? Visitors can dive into an immersive experience of any one of these agricultural activities in Central Michigan to take in all that the area has to offer.
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Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm
You don’t need to go all the way to the Arctic to find reindeer. Whether in summer or winter, the reindeer of Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm are out and about for all to see. During the holiday season, the farm is transformed into a makeshift North Pole where Santa and his reindeer roam. But the fun doesn’t end in winter. Each summer, baby reindeer populate the farm alongside the resident Highland cattle, alpacas and even sloths. This agritourism experience in Clare, Michigan, is rounded out by a u-pick strawberry patch, photo opportunities and a playground to keep visitors of all ages entertained.
Yoders Auction & Flea Market
Hosted by the Yoders, an Amish family from Clare County, the Yoders Auction and Flea Market is a highlight of the area’s agritourism lineup. Hosted twice annually, with one event on the third weekend of May and another on Labor Day weekend, the tradition transforms the Simon and Barber Yoder Farm into a bustling hub for antiques, handmade quilts, farm tools, baked goods and so much more. Visitors can purchase high-quality Amish-made furniture, crafts and specialty foods made by Amish women. The event is a fun and meaningful way to support the Amish community of Clare County, which is a thriving cultural tradition that has helped shape the agricultural identity of the county throughout the years.
The Wild Pumpkin
True to its name, the Wild Pumpkin near Beaverton is home to a sprawling pumpkin patch in the fall, along with a corn maze, wagon rides, hay maze and vibrant sunflower fields. A petting zoo complete with an exotic array of animals from camels, emus and black swans to rabbits and goats offers a fun and educational farm experience for all ages. In the spring, the Wild Pumpkin transitions into a tulip farm featuring 41 varieties of flowers, with pink, orange and yellow blooms painting the landscape. No matter the time of year, there is always something to enjoy at this family-run operation.
The Fruitful Orchard & Cider Mill
Starting in mid-August, the Fruitful Orchard and Cider Mill in Gladwin is open for business until late November. During that time, the orchard store and bakery serve an assortment of goods, from homemade pies, breads and doughnuts to delicious ciders from the cider mill. During the Fall Harvest Festival, visitors can experience the petting zoo, pick apples, enjoy a hayride and eat an abundance of apple-themed foods.
The Merry-Hearted Cidery
To experience more of what the Fruitful Orchard has to offer, check out its sister company, The Merry-Hearted Cidery. Geared toward adults, the cidery specializes in hard ciders made from local apples and other fruits like black raspberries, blueberries and pears. Adventurous drinkers can also sample ciders with a jalapeño or tropical fruit twist, or a gingerbread specialty drink during the holidays.
VanDeMark Farm & Vineyard
Saint Louis, Michigan, is home to a sprawling vineyard that produces a highly curated selection of quality wines. VanDeMark Farm and Vineyard was a passion project of Joel VanDeMark that started with six grapevines and has grown to include more than 1,000 over 10-plus years. The vineyard focuses on producing a handful of select wines: an aromatic red blend, a dry red Leon Millot, a classic white and a pink wine. From May to September, visitors can enjoy sipping a variety of wines on the peaceful, secluded property and take some home as a souvenir.
Papa’s Pumpkin Patch
In the fall, Papa’s Pumpkin Patch is a hub for fall-themed agritourism activities in Mt. Pleasant. The farm prioritizes both fun and education by offering agricultural-themed activities, from pumpkin and corn mazes to a Country Farm Market featuring locally grown produce and nursery items. Take a ride on the Pumpkin Train to tour this family farm that was named for Central Michigan University professors Bill and Dee Miller in hopes of continuing their educational legacy after their retirement.
Midland Area Farmers Market
For a quintessential Michigan experience, look no further than the Midland Area Farmers Market. In 2026, this beloved community tradition celebrates its landmark 80th year. Now nestled in the east parking lot of Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, the market serves as a vibrant seasonal bridge between local residents and the region’s rich agricultural landscape. From May through October, visitors can explore rows of vendors every Wednesday and Saturday, discovering everything from peak-season produce and farm-fresh eggs to handcrafted treats. After filling your bags, the experience continues with a peaceful stroll through the nearby Founders Garden along the scenic riverfront.
Apple Barrel Cider Mill
For the sweet tooth, Apple Barrel Cider Mill in Ithaca is an ideal destination. Using Michigan-grown apples, the mill presses its own flavorful ciders, including a hot cider in the winter months and cider slushies and floats in the spring and fall. The bakery specializes in a delicious array of doughnuts, from apple cider and blueberry flavors to plain and seasonal pumpkin. Along with fruit pies, shortcakes, fudge and brownies, the bakery has something for everyone at any time of year.