The other morning brought the kind of fall day that makes you glad you live in Michigan. I even called a girlfriend who grew-up in Michigan, but now resides in Hawaii, to brag about the crisp air, the puffy clouds and the trees which were in full show-off mode. I finished by telling her that we were off to the apple orchard. She groaned in jealousy. I was happy.
We happened to hit Wiard’s Apple Orchard outside Ypsilanti on a weekday morning when they often host school field trips. Although still open to the public, the school kids dominated the scene while their surprisingly relaxed teachers looked on. The kids were everywhere … in trees, rolling down little hills, calling for the time so they wouldn’t be late for their hay ride and sprinting from activity to activity. There was plenty of energy being burned.
Wiard’s has gained a reputation for not only giving kids the traditional apple picking experience, but a full entertainment family venue. Rose Timbers is in charge of all this great energy at Wiard’s and explained that “we now specialize in Agri-entertainment”. I wasn’t familiar so Rose explained, Wiard’s provides the outdoor farming experience you would expect, but also a whole lot more. Translate “Agri-entertainment” as fun for the modern kid (and adult). Bring on… The Vortex, The Spine Chilling MindShaft, a Corn Maze, Fire Engine Rides, even Karaoke. On the weekends you can also ride Ponies, do Sand Art or make candles. The apple cannon caught my attention and the Haunted Thrill Park entertains the night-time crowd, but the funniest bit to watch was in the petting farm. The school kids were given ice cream cones filled with what must have been some mighty tasty Lama treats ’cause those big, hairy things knew which kids to work and work …and work. Although the trees probably don’t see as much climbing on the weekends, as the families, couples and groups take over, but I’m guessing the Lamas lay on the charm just the same.
Wiard’s has been around since 1853 and produced more than 3 MILLION gallons of cider over the years. You can trace some of that cider history inside the Country Store, find preserved invoices and cash registers, as well as, newspaper articles regarding the Wiard family. On the way out grab a fresh supply of cider, donuts and a few caramel covered apples. After the first weekend in November the windows will close, the lights will be turned-off and the apple trees will be left to enjoy the winter in quiet …so they can store up the energy to give us a new crop and plenty of entertainment again next year!
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