Dexter Cider Mill: Must-Visit Michigan Cider Mill
by Emily Lance
What: The Dexter Cider Mill
Address: 3685 Central Street, Dexter, MI 48130
The Dexter Cider Mill, located just outside of Ann Arbor, is one of Michigan’s top destinations in the fall.
Set along the idyllic banks of the Huron River in downtown Dexter, Michigan, the Dexter Cider mill stands as a timeless emblem of autumnal charm and local tradition. This beloved cider mill has been crafting delicious apple cider and enticing visitors for over a century.
Producing hundreds of thousands of apple-flavored items through the fall, it’s long been a favorite stop for thousands of visitors over the years. Families flock to this favorite fall destination to enjoy hard cider, traditional cider, donuts, and the unbeatable views provided by the Huron River. In fact, you’ll find some of the best Michigan-made cider and donuts here.
The Dexter Cider Mill is the heart of Dexter and has made the growing town famous for a few short months each year.
The best news? The Dexter Cider Mill opens on August 25, 2023 (this year), and stays open until the end of November several days throughout the week.
Read on for everything you need to know about the famous Dexter Cider Mill.
History of the Dexter Cider Mill
Established in 1886, boasts a storied past that adds a layer of charm to every sip of their famous apple cider. It holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating cider mill in the entire state of Michigan, and has only had three owners in its history.
Visitors can step back in time and experience the nostalgia of the past, as they witness the cider-making process in its traditional, time-honored form.
Beyond its cider-making prowess, Dexter Cider Mill has also been a social hub for the local community for generations. Families gather here, creating cherished memories against the backdrop of rustling leaves and the gentle flow of the Huron River. It’s not just a cider mill; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of community and tradition.
The Dexter Cider Mill is located in Southeast Michigan, about 15 minutes northwest of Ann Arbor, MI. The address is 3685 Central St. Dexter, MI 48130.
Cider, Donuts and Other Apple Treats at the Dexter Cider Mill
The cider from the Dexter Cider Mill is still made the same as it was over 130 years ago. The mill operators use a natural oak rack press to make delicious, natural unpasteurized cider.
The Dexter Mill also has a large array of different apple-flavored products for customers to choose from. They have donuts, caramel apples, and apple nut bread, and on weekends they have homemade apple pie, apple strudel, apple turnovers, and hand-rolled ginger snaps. They also have cider slushies, jellies, barbeque sauces, jams, apple butter, maple syrup, mustard, and t- shirts.
The Dexter Cider Mill’s Hard Cider comes in three varieties: Traditional, Hopps and Bourbon Barrel Aged. Try a cider tasting and pick your favorite!
The mill offers an apple cookbook with recipes for several products, too.
Cider Mill Fun for Everyone!
Dexter Cider Mill isn’t just about cider and donuts; it’s also a destination for fall family fun. They host events like apple picking, pumpkin decorating, and hayrides, providing entertainment for all ages. It’s an opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories amidst the beauty of fall.
As a Dexter native going to the mill is a tradition within my family, and there is always a bottle of Dexter Mill cider sitting in the fridge at home throughout the fall. I highly recommend visiting the mill along with the beautiful town of Dexter to experience the flavor of a Michigan Fall to its fullest extent.
About Cider Mills in Michigan
Visiting Michigan ciders mills and apple orchards is a fall rite of passage. You’ll find apple orchards scattered throughout the state, and you can smell with sweet cinnamon donuts and crisp apple cider wafting on the air. It’s a special thing in Michigan, and you’ll want to put a visit to a Michigan Cider Mill on your fall bucket list!
More Fall Fun in Michigan
About The Author ~
Emily Lance is a Content Creator for mymichiganbeach.com. She grew up in the small town of Dexter, Michigan, just outside Ann Arbor, and is currently attending Michigan State University. She majors in Journalism with a focus in Sports journalism and Media Relations and a minor in Media Photography. Emily loves writing and taking photographs/videos of her surroundings and travels. Emily likes to explore new places, kayak, ski, and go boating in her free time.