Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Wiard's Orchard Country Store
★4.2(1,861 reviews)$Farm
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers adore the farm animals and simple picking activities, while elementary-aged kids love the hayrides, corn maze (in fall), and more adventurous farm experiences. Even teens enjoy the festive atmosphere during peak season.🧡 Saved by 200+ families
About
Wiard's Orchard Country Store is a beloved family destination in Southeast Michigan offering authentic farm experiences throughout the year. Families can pick fresh apples in the fall, enjoy tractor-pulled hayrides, visit farm animals, and indulge in fresh-baked donuts and cider that kids absolutely love. With its combination of hands-on activities, seasonal festivals, and that classic farm atmosphere, it's a perfect spot for creating lasting family memories.
Highlights
- ✓U-pick apple orchards with multiple varieties to choose from
- ✓Fresh-baked donuts and cider from the on-site bakery
- ✓Tractor-pulled hayrides through the farm
- ✓Petting farm with friendly animals for kids to interact with
- ✓Fall festival activities including corn maze and pumpkin patches
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekend mornings during apple season (September-October) to avoid the largest crowds and have the best selection for picking.
- 2.Bring a wagon or stroller for little ones, as the orchard grounds can be extensive and young legs tire quickly.
- 3.Don't leave without trying their fresh cider donuts. Buy them warm from the bakery inside the country store.
- 4.Dress in layers and wear closed-toe shoes or boots, especially in fall when mornings can be chilly and the orchard may be muddy.
- 5.Check their website before visiting for seasonal activity schedules, as offerings vary greatly throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (September through October) is the ultimate time to visit when apple picking is in full swing, the weather is perfect, and special autumn activities are running. Weekday mornings offer a more relaxed experience compared to packed weekend afternoons.
What to Know
The country store and bakery are open year-round, but seasonal activities like picking and hayrides are weather and harvest dependent. Parking is free, and many activities have separate costs beyond store shopping.
Seasonal Notes
Peak season is fall (September-October) with apple picking, pumpkin patches, and Halloween-themed events. Spring offers cherry blossom viewing and early produce. The country store, bakery, and donut shop operate year-round, but outdoor farm activities are seasonal and weather-dependent. Check ahead for winter and summer schedules.
Nearby Eats
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the farm grounds, or head to Aubree's Pizzeria & Grill in Ypsilanti (about 10 minutes away) for family-friendly dining with a great kids menu.
More Activities Near Brighton
Park
Kensington Metropark
Free
Kensington Metropark is a sprawling 4,500-acre regional park that offers families an incredible variety of outdoor activities without the admission fee. From swimming at the sandy beach to exploring miles of paved trails perfect for biking and strollers, this Brighton gem provides everything needed for memorable family adventures in nature.
Nature
Charles and Albert Parker Families Nature Preserve
★5.0Free❤️17
Charles and Albert Parker Families Nature Preserve offers a peaceful escape where kids can explore winding trails, spot wildlife, and discover the beauty of Michigan's natural habitats. With creek views and diverse ecosystems to observe, this free preserve provides endless opportunities for young naturalists to learn about native plants and animals while burning energy on the walking paths.
Cafe
Parkside Grille
★4.8$$❤️64
Parkside Grille offers families a relaxed dining experience with a dedicated kids menu and welcoming staff who understand the needs of parents with children. Located at Rochester Place Golf Club & Resort, this casual American eatery features outdoor seating options where kids can enjoy fresh air while parents savor their meals, making it an ideal stop for families exploring the Lakeshore area.
Park
Island Lake Recreation Area
★4.7Free❤️74
Island Lake Recreation Area is a 4,000-acre natural playground perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure in Southeast Michigan. With a sandy swimming beach on the spring-fed lake, miles of kid-friendly hiking trails, and spacious picnic areas under shady trees, this state park offers endless opportunities for family fun without breaking the bank.