Vacation Spots With Plenty of Cider

If you are looking for a unique adventure this summertime check out this awesome list.  While some areas below are known for cider we are positive you will find something new and exciting.  The locations we have selected are either growing in the cider scene or are highly recommended for the quality of products in the area.  We did not mention places in Oregon, Washington, or the upper east coast as there are a plethora of cideries and areas to visit.  Let’s break the mold and see what cider and adventures we can find along the way!

Sutton Bay, Michigan

Michigan is a state known for both apples, cider, and natural beauty.  While most will note areas like Detroit, Grand Rapids, or Mackinac Island there is still more to explore.  About 15 minutes north of Traverse City is a shore village called Sutton Bay which is jammed pack with shore vibes!

Nearby Michigan Cideries to Visit:

Sutton Bay Cider

With products like apples, cherries, and lavender all sourced from the Leelanau Peninsula this taproom will invite you with long scenic water views.  If you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere this is certainly up to the task. 

Two K Farms Cidery & Winery

A unique cidery/winery that grows cider apples on sight to the views of the bay area!  If you like wine then you will love this team’s approach to cider.  The high ceiling with exposed beams gives a rustic feel while you enjoy the West Grand Traverse Bay.  We personally recommend some of their single varietal ciders to taste what each apple has to offer.

Tandem Cider

Further inland you will find another Michigan gem in Tandem Cider, make sure you stop over to try Greenman!  There is indoor and outdoor seating to select from while you enjoy a flight or pint.  A small wooded area with picnic seating is also available for those who want some shade on a hot day.

Things to Do Near Sutton Bay, MI

• Visit the lakeshore at one of the private beaches
• Visit Traverse City and find some great local breweries
• Go golfing. Fore!

Asheville, North Carolina

In the western part of North Carolinas Blue Ridge Mountains is a growing city called Asheville, NC.   Known for its beer, art, and outdoor scenes there is more than meets the eye.  The area around is known as “Apple Alley” so you can expect the cider scene to meet expectations as well. We made a whole trip out of Asheville, North Carolina before.

Nearby North Carolina Cideries to Visit:

Urban Orchard Cider

This cidery offers two inviting spaces in separate parts of Asheville to bring creative ciders to the community.  Make sure to try their lager series ciders that are made with lager yeast and some that are aged!

Noble Cider

Not only does this cidery use premium ingredients, but they also grow some of their own! In partnership with Lewis Creek Farms, Noble is grafting and growing true cider apple varieties to bring to their cidery and second taproom.

Bold Rock Cider

As the largest independently owned cider in the US, this is a must-visit location.  Visit one of their 5 locations to explore both in town and mountain views.

Things to Do Near Asheville, NC

• Take a hike in the mountains
• Do a brewery crawl after the cider crawl, of course
• Visit Biltmore estates at America’s largest home

Finger Lakes, New York

The finger lakes region is known for its beautiful landscapes and temperate climates but it has a strong buzz around its wine and cider culture. Nature is the center of every aspect of the activities in the area including kayaking, biking, hiking, and tours. Make sure to eat and drink your way across New York as high brow or low brow as you please. Apples are part of the landscape as well so you know the ciders are going to be excellent.

Nearby New York Cideries to Visit:

Finger Lakes Cider House

An absolute staple of the area and a must-visit location. This cider house makes some of the best ciders in the US on picturesque farmland. Stop in and have a cider inside or on their many outdoor spaces while enjoying a charcuterie board. They also offer live music on Friday and Sundays for a small cover charge.

South Hill Cider

This is a small family business that makes cider from fruit that is grown close to downtown Ithaca, NY, and other local orchards. Wild apples, fruit from abandoned orchards, and heirloom apples are all on the table with South Hill. We would suggest going for a guided tasting to appreciate the full nuance of the products and their creation.

Star Cider

Star Cider came from a love of making hard cider over three generations. Their taproom opened in the last couple of years and there is much to do there. Grab some of their Mexican food while having a cider or two.  You can also rent out the space for an event or grab a seat by their campfire to stay warm.

Things to Do Near the Finger Lakes in NY

• Kayak around the lake of your choice
• Visit a winery like Thirsty Owl Winery (which is on the waters of Lake Cayuga)
• Visit a waterfall (Ithaca is a great area to start)

Austin, Texas

Located in central Texas the capital city is a growing playground.   “Keep Austin Weird” is not just a local motto anymore, the area breeds cultural diversity and a variety of activities to do.  Enjoy the local art or music scene while in the Texas heat.  The area is host to great cuisine and beer as well outside of the cider scene which should not be taken lightly.

Nearby Austin, TX Cideries to Visit:

Fairweather Cider

Would it be Austin without some of the best dang labels we have ever seen? Fairweather demands respect with their awesome flavors and amazing can art. If you are looking to do something a bit different for the evening you can also rent out their karaoke room and sip cider while singing a tune!

Moontower Cider

Opened in 2017 this cidery focuses on tradition and fermentation experience.  The modest taproom gives a more sophisticated feel than some of the others on the list.  You can always find their four flagship offerings here: semi-dry, pomme blush, miel, and perry.

Austin Eastciders

Did you know that Austin and the UK have a common thread?  Englishman Ed met with Mark King to create one of the souths most beloved cider companies.  Visit their multiple destinations as well as Barton Springs and their taproom!

Texas Keeper Cider

When you come to Texas you may not expect any cider but 100% fresh-pressed apple cider? Is this Michigan? No this is Austin and this is Texas Keeper Cider and their approach to hard cider will refresh you in the Texas heat! Take the short drive (about 18 minutes from the city center) and try some of this liquid gold.

Things to Do Near Austin, TX

• Take a bike or boat tour around the city and explore
• Listen to live music at some of the famous haunts like Stubbs or the Continental Club
• Eat some Texas BBQ at Valentina’s or La Barbeque

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis is a vibrant region known for nature and its surrounding “Twin City” area. Whether you are there during the winter or the summer there is a variety of activities to do. Summertime visitors can enjoy kayaking, Twin’s baseball games, or some performing arts at the Guthrie Theater. Wintertime visitors can go to a Vikings game, go ice fishing or cross country skiing. Either way, the area is host to many outdoor activities for the adventurous or beauty seekers.

Nearby Minneapolis Cideries to Visit:

Minneapolis Cider Company

This cidery welcomes cider fans of all ages in their sophisticated taproom which has a modern appeal.  Food, cider, cocktails, and fun await you once you walk through the door.  A unique feature of this location is the pickleball court that is adjacent to the taproom.  Play a few rounds with some friends and enjoy a cold one to cool off.

Number 12 Cider

Number 12 is known for its unique and delicious blends of cider that have a higher-end feel to them. Made on-site with a variety of cooking apples as well as heirloom apples, these ciders are diverse and delicious. The taproom features a homemade pizza station outside and various beautiful seating areas. There is also a room in the back that can be rented for private parties that overlooks the production space. If you are going to a Twins game make sure to stop by as it is in the same neighborhood.

Sociable Cider Werks

Started by two brewing buddies who left their careers in finance, Sociable Cider Werks is decidedly different. The longest-standing cidery in the area has been written in the fabric of the area with ciders like Freewheeler and Training Wheels. Bring your dog out and enjoy the large indoor/outdoor spaces and grab a bite at their resident food truck.

Things to Do Near Minneapolis, MN

• Go to a Vikings game or Twins baseball game
• Visit Minnehaha Park and see a waterfall
• Walk the unique skyway system in downtown Minneapolis
• Kayak