1. Scenic Air Tour

The fall colors are magical in Manistee County but witnessing the brilliantly colored leaves from above is a game changer! Orchard Beach Aviation provides breathtaking views of the fall foliage surrounding Lake Michigan beaches (Manistee and Portage Lake), over the Manistee National Forest, and surrounding areas.

Two routes are available: Downtown Manistee and the Lake Michigan shoreline or the M-22/Portage Lake area. Choose either one for $40 per person.  These tours are available all October from the Manistee County Blacker Airport. Call (231) 723-8095 to reserve your flight and learn more here!

2. Who-ville Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch

Located in Kaleva, Michigan, Calvin Lutz Farms is one of the largest farms in Manistee County. They are known for their fresh produce in the spring and summer but come fall, their u-pick pumpkin patch thrives! Pre-picked pumpkins, gourds, cornstalks, and squash are at the market daily. Opening early October, browse their large pumpkin selection and enjoy the Who-Ville Corn Maze, perfect for the entire family.

Activities include tractor rides (last one leaves at 5:45pm), kids games, cider and donuts! Hours are Saturday and Sunday, 12pm-6pm. Stay tuned for night maze events via the Lutz Farm Facebook page!

3. The Ghost Ship

Come aboard the haunted S.S. City of Milwaukee (aka the Ghost Ship), if you dare! Perfect for ship lovers and Halloween enthusiasts, this historic car ferry transforms into the most epic and thrilling haunted house. Creepy sets and ghostly characters are around every corner and begin the moment you walk up the ramp to the S.S. City of Milwaukee. Docked on Manistee Lake, this attraction consists of 5 decks and takes about 25-45 minutes to complete. The Ghost Ship is open Friday and Saturday nights in October, 7:30pm-10:30pm.

Cost is $12 per person and kids 6 and under are free. More info on the Ghost Ship here!

4. G&D Alpaca Farm

The G&D Alpaca Farm is a treasure for many reasons. Maybe it’s the reading hut, fairy garden, boutique, knowledgeable owners, playground, or…the alpacas! This experience is sure to add a unique twist to your fall bucket list. New this year is their fall gourd tunnel (great for fall family photos) and u-pick gourd garden! The G&D Alpaca Farm is open Thursdays-Mondays from 10am-4pm through October 31.

Check out more about the farm and the Boutique here!  Photo by : @ryker616

5. Guided Rafting Trip on the Pine River

Pine River Paddlesports has wonderful Looking for a guided fall rafting trip? Pine River Paddlesports offers families a unique fall experience from the water Each raft can hold 3-5 people, including the guide and takes about 1-1.5 hours. The navigation (and most of the paddling) is done by the guide so be prepared to take in all the beautiful colors along the Pine River. Bring your camera, hot chocolate and favorite people. Kids 5 and under are free! Call the office at 231-862-3471 to reserve.

6. The Purple Paintbrush

Who doesn’t love customizable fall decor? At the Purple Paintbrush, select your favorite fall pottery pieces and let your creativity do the rest! This is an activity that is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Drop-in pottery painting is open Wednesdays-Saturdays or schedule a private painting party for larger groups. Be on the lookout for fall themed painting parties! Check out more and plan your fall visit to the Purple Paintbrush