By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
Agriculture and tourism are Michigan’s top two economic drivers. Agri-tourism provides a way for farmers to diversify their offerings, helping to protect against challenging weather conditions and market fluctuations.
Michigan Agri-tourism is a non-profit association that supports the agri-tourism through promotion, education, advocacy, problem resolution and networking. The goal is to keep family farms sustainable, support local economic growth and provide rich and unique experiences for visitors to make lasting memories.
Residents can being their journey by visiting local farmer markets, roadside stands, cider mills, u-pick farms, corn mazes, petting farms, ranches, educational farms, farm stays, wineries and more throughout West Michigan.
In fact, one of the most well-known Grand Rapids orchards is Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery, 3142 4 Mile Rd. NE, which has been in operation for more than 100 years. Currently, Robinette’s is making fresh cider using a blend of apples with the combination changing as the season progresses. However the cider is only the starting point as the orchard provides baked goods, and a selection of wines and ciders that are all Michigan-made and available for sampling in the winery.
Or make it a day trip adventure by heading north to Ellsworth where you will find Friske’s Farm Market, 10743 US-31. There you can treat your sweet tooth to one of their famous donuts, a piece of Grandma Friske’s pie or MOOMer’s Ice Cream which is made in Michigan and has been voted number one in America. There is a variety of meal selections as well from house-smoked pulled pork sandwiches to handcrafted specialty pizzas.
If Ellsworth is a little to far north to roam, then head to Williamsburg, where you will find Farmer White’s, 11373 US-31 which is considered a piece of Northern Michigan heritage. The market is operated by Mary Cooper’s family for three generations offering an array of fresh fruit and vegetables, jams, jellies, and pieces all made from secret family recipes to customers since 1958. There also is a selection of signature baking mixes, dried fruits, handcrafted gifts and more.
Of course nothing says fall more than a caramel apple and Grand Haven’s Chocolates by Grimaldi, 219 N. Seventh St., will be offering its limited edition chocolate caramel apples that start with hand-picked apples from local orchards that are drenched in buttery caramel and coated with chocolate and then topped off with nuts or other toppings.
Tempted? Find more such temptations in the West Michigan Tourist Association’s Travel Guide and Lighthouse Map which are available at the WKTV station or check out the guides online at WMTA.org.
