FREELAND, Mich. (Michigan Back Roads) – So, you are out on an autumn road trip cruising around. You are on the lookout for an interesting shop, farmers market, or maybe someplace to get an ice-cold craft beer and some delicious food. You can usually find one of those in most any small town out on the back roads, but it is really cool when you find a business that has all three plus a beautiful setting all in one place. It may be unexpected, but that is exactly what you will find at Baynes Apple Valley in Freeland, Michigan.

All about Baynes Apple Valley.

When you pull into the parking lot, the big red barn-like main building is right in front of you. Near at hand are the Cider Mill and Band Stand. The orchard and Beer Garden are not far. At the rear of the main building is an outdoor deck that is a favorite gathering spot during warm weather. There is plenty of time to explore and enjoy, but the main attractions are inside that big red building. This is not your average small-town orchard.

What’s in the barn?

MORE NEWS: East Lansing Police: Suspect in Freezer Dismemberment Deaths Died By Suicide

When you first enter you will be in the gift shop. Here you will find Michigan-made products from more than vendors. Products offered include jams, jellies, dolls, books, quality Michigan souvenirs, and many other hand-crafted items. The selection is constantly changing so chances are you’ll find that special gift. As you wander around you will notice the Cider Bar and will become aware of delicious aromas wafting through the air from the kitchen.

How about the cafe?

The café is best described as a homey, warm, experiential gathering space. The menu changes regularly. You can expect to find five mouthwatering soups every day, all made from scratch, and one soup will always be vegan. The top three perennial favorites are the Philly cheesesteak soup, the shrimp corn chowder, and the apple beef stew.

Baynes also has an authentic Borscht created by their Eastern European chef. Sandwiches and handhelds include Roast beef, Turkey Club, Taste of Italy, Quesadillas, and a Cuban, all with that special Baynes Apple Valley touch. Try to save some room for the brown butter apples or one of those famous donuts. In fact, the donuts at Baynes are so well known that, on weekends, they are known to sell 5,000 donuts each day. Don’t get there too late because they do sell out.

The Tap House and the Baynes Hard Cider Project.

Adjacent to the café is the Tap House, which is part of the Baynes Hard Cider Project. Their cider specialist focuses on bringing in the best hard ciders, craft beer, and cocktails from all around the state. Choose from ten hard ciders on tap, six craft beers, five cocktails, three meads and an extensive selection of Michigan wines. The homemade ciders are the specialty. One cool way to try them all is to work your way through a flight of four ciders. According to the owners, “Making cider is our job, making memories is our passion – for peak enjoyment we suggest you turn on some music, gather with the ones you love and make today your masterpiece.”

Dining al fresco.

You can enjoy these taste delights inside or outside on the deck. Don’t worry if it is a cool day. The outdoor deck is outfitted with fire tables to keep things cozy. The deck seats more than 100 and there is live music on the outside stage 4 nights a week plus trivia nights. Outside there are homegrown games, the cider mill, and the beer garden in the orchard.