Ciders Mills in Connecticut have more to offer than a crisp fall beverage. These cider mills have become one-stop destinations for family fun, with everything from petting zoos to mini golf. And most offer both sweet cider, for everyone to enjoy, and hard cider—a nice reward for mom or dad after all those fall activities. Connecticut is home to some delightful cider mills, where families can enjoy autumnal fun while enjoying these (and more) tasty treats. Read on for some of the best cider mills, and cheers!
For more seasonal fun, check out our Fall Fun Guide for Connecticut Kids. It's full of our top picks for apple picking and corn mazes, as well as more autumn activities.
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Cider Mills in Connecticut for Family Fun
With lawn games and mini golf, Hogan's Cider Mill has something for everyone. Photo courtesy of Hogan's Cider Mill
Hogan's Cider Mill - Burlington
Hogan's has been pressing cider for over a century. The venue has expanded over the years to include multiple tap rooms. Besides some delicious cider (both hard cider and the sweet, kid-friendly kind), Hogan's Cider Mill in Burlington has some fun family activities. Hogan's features an 18-hole miniature golf course; it's one of our 20 Best Mini Golf Courses for Connecticut Kids. Hogan's also provides lawn games for more family fun.
Hogan's Cider Mill is open from Friday to Sunday, with additional hours on holidays.
Stop by Beardsley's Cider Mill in Shelton for delicious cider and savory baked goods. Photo courtesy of Beardsley's Cider Mill & Orchard
Beardsley's Cider Mill & Orchard - Shelton
Beardsley's Cider Mill & Orchard in Shelton lets you pick apples—and then drink some afterwards. The Beardsley Farm has been operational since 1849. Today, the farm's bakery is cranking out all kinds of goodies beyond those sweet cider donuts! Breads, cookies, and a variety of pies are offered. An on-site distillery produces craft spirits too.
Beardsley's Cider Mill supplies starter kits for making hard cider. And one day a year, they produce a special blend which is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Beardsley's is open from the end of August until Christmas Eve.
Related: Apple Picking in Connecticut:Best Apple Orchards for Apple Picking with Kids
Riverview Farms - Glastonbury
Glastonbury's Riverview Farms began making cider to market the orchard's apples. Home to a petting zoo, Riverview Farms is home to goats, pigs, sheep, rabbits, alpaca, and more. There's also a corn maze. The farm presses their own crisp, refreshsing cider. On the weekends, there are scrumptious apple frtitters! Check the website for updates on the Riverview Farms' Fall Festival, a tradition since 2006.
Riverview Farms is open Wednesdays through Fridays from noon to 6 pm; the weekend hours are 9 am to 6pm.
Related: Best Petting Zoos in Connecticut: Animals up close at Farms and Petting Zoos
Make some new friends at these fun Cider Mills in Connecticut! Photo courtesy of B.F. Clydes Cider Mill
B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill - Mystic
With a plethora of family activities, Mystic is one of our favorite destinations in Connecticut. B.F. Clydes Cider Mill is a must-visit for families out for a sweet fall treat. We even include it in our guide to Mystic, Connecticut with Kids: Top Things To Do on a Weekend Getaway. B.F. Clyde's is perfect for a pit-stop betwen the Mystic Aquarium and the area's other fun activities!
The oldest steam-powered cider mill in America, B.F. Clyde's is part historic landmark, part museum, and part bakery. Hard and sweet cider are available, along with cider donuts and yummy baked goods, such as cookies, dumplings, and turnovers. There is also an extensive selection of hand-crafted fruit wines. B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill is open daily, 9 am to 6 pm, until November.
Related: Family Friendly Vineyards and Wineries in New England that Welcome Kids
Buell's Orchard - Eastford
With a variety of pick-your-own fruit, including strawberries, blueberries, and peaches, Buell's Orchard offers family fun from spring through fall. Buell's hosts a fall festival every year, with hayrides, live music, and more. And the orchard has made its trunk-or-treat festivities an annual event. And, yes, they press their own cider.
During the fall, Buell's is open daily, from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday, and one pm to 5 pm on Sunday.