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Paint Creek Cider Mill ice cream shop in New Baltimore, MI
Photo: Paint Creek Cider Mill
View of Paint Creek Cider Mill in New Baltimore, MI
Photo: Kevin Hinton
View of Paint Creek Cider Mill in New Baltimore, MI
Photo: Joe Bourbeau

Paint Creek Cider Mill

4.3(700 reviews)$Farm
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the petting farm animals and tractor rides, while elementary-aged kids enjoy apple picking and exploring the orchard. The gentle activities and sweet treats appeal to a wide age range, making it ideal for families with multiple children.

About

Paint Creek Cider Mill is a beloved Rochester Hills destination where families can experience authentic Michigan orchard traditions. Kids will delight in picking their own apples, meeting friendly farm animals at the petting zoo, and bouncing along on seasonal hayrides through the picturesque grounds. Don't miss the famous fresh-pressed cider and warm cider donuts that have kept families coming back for generations.

Highlights

  • U-pick apple orchard with multiple varieties to choose from
  • Fresh-pressed apple cider and hot cider donuts made on-site
  • Petting farm with friendly goats, chickens, and other farm animals
  • Scenic hayrides through the orchard grounds
  • On-site dining with pizza, hot dogs, and BBQ options

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early on fall weekends (before 10am) to avoid the largest crowds and get first pick of apples in the U-pick orchard.
  2. 2.Bring a wagon or stroller for little ones as the orchard grounds involve quite a bit of walking, and kids tire quickly while carrying apple bags.
  3. 3.Pack hand wipes or sanitizer since kids will be touching animals at the petting farm and eating sticky donuts.
  4. 4.The cider donut line can get long, so consider having one parent grab donuts while the other takes kids to see the animals.
  5. 5.Dress in layers and wear closed-toe shoes, as mornings can be chilly and the orchard paths may be muddy after rain.

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings in September or early October for the best experience. You'll enjoy cooler temperatures perfect for apple picking, smaller crowds, and the freshest selection of apples. Weekends get very busy during peak fall season.

What to Know

The mill operates seasonally with most activities available during fall months. Parking is free but can fill up on peak weekends. They offer various food options including pizza, hot dogs, and baked goods, plus you can purchase fresh apples, cider, and other orchard products to take home.

Seasonal Notes

Paint Creek Cider Mill operates seasonally, primarily from late summer through fall (typically August through early November). Peak season is September and October when apples are ripe and fall activities are in full swing. They may open for special events during other times of year, so check their schedule before visiting outside the main season.

Nearby Eats

For additional dining, try Genghis Grill (about 10 minutes away) where kids can create their own stir-fry bowls, or Red Robin in Rochester Hills for kid-friendly burgers and unlimited fries.

More Activities Near Rochester Hills

Park

Tienken Park

Free

Tienken Park is a spacious multi-purpose recreational destination in Rochester Hills that offers something for every member of the family. With well-maintained playgrounds, walking trails, open athletic fields, and plenty of picnic areas, this free community park provides the perfect setting for everything from casual afternoon outings to full-day family adventures.

Adventure

Paint Creek Trail

Free

Paint Creek Trail offers families 8.9 miles of smooth, paved pathway perfect for introducing kids to biking adventures or enjoying leisurely strolls through Michigan's beautiful woodlands and charming neighborhoods. The gentle, well-maintained trail follows Paint Creek through Rochester and Rochester Hills, providing safe, car-free recreation where kids can pedal freely while parents enjoy the scenic surroundings and frequent wildlife sightings.

Park

Stony Creek Metropark

4.7Free

Stony Creek Metropark is a massive outdoor playground offering something for every family member across its sprawling grounds. From sandy beach swimming and paddle boat rentals to nature trails and a hands-on nature center, this beloved Michigan metropark delivers affordable all-day adventure just minutes from Rochester Hills.

Ice Cream

Yates Cider Mill

4.7$

Yates Cider Mill is a beloved Michigan fall destination where families can watch cider being pressed using historic equipment, enjoy warm donuts straight from the fryer, and explore the scenic grounds along the Clinton River. This working cider mill has been creating cherished autumn memories for generations since 1876, offering an authentic farm experience that kids absolutely love.