Watts Orchard
Contact & location
Howard City, MI 49329
Where Watts Orchard is located
Watts Orchard sits in Howard City, Michigan, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Michigan. The farm's street address is Washburn Street, Howard City, MI, Howard City, MI 49329.
Most visitors reach Watts Orchard by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Howard City and continue on local county roads to Washburn Street, Howard City, MI. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Howard City, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Looking for the best apple picking near Howard City, Michigan? Watts Orchard is a working apple orchard located in Howard City, Michigan, welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Watts Orchard sits inside one of Michigan's most beloved apple-growing regions. Between the smell of fresh cider, warm apple donuts, and rows of Honeycrisp and McIntosh trees heavy with fruit, it's the kind of place that turns a simple Saturday into a memory your kids will still talk about years later.
Pick-Your-Own Apples at Watts Orchard
Pick-your-own apples at Watts Orchard is exactly what it sounds like, you walk the orchard, pick apples directly off the tree, and pay by the bag or pound when you're done. Staff will point you toward the rows that are ripe that week, hand you a picking bag or bucket, and give you a quick tip on how to twist (not pull) the apple.
On-Farm Activities
Best Time to Visit
Apple season at Watts Orchard runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in Michigan. The sweet spot for a first-time visit is the last two weeks of September through the first two weeks of October.
Weekends between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. are the friendliest time to arrive. Weekdays are the most peaceful, a Tuesday or Wednesday morning may have entire rows to yourself.
What to Bring
- • Cash (backup for the farm stand)
- • Closed-toe walking shoes
- • A light jacket or flannel
- • Sunscreen and a hat
- • Water bottles for the walk
- • Reusable bags for the ride home
- • A camera or phone charged for photos
- • Small bills for cider and donuts
Where Watts Orchard is located
Watts Orchard sits in Howard City, Michigan, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of Michigan. The farm's street address is Washburn Street, Howard City, MI, Howard City, MI 49329.
Most visitors reach Watts Orchard by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Howard City and continue on local county roads to Washburn Street, Howard City, MI. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Howard City, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Watts Orchard offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, Watts Orchard offers pick-your-own apples during the harvest season. Guests walk the rows, pick apples straight from the tree, and pay by the bag, bucket, or pound at the farm stand.
When is apple picking season at Watts Orchard?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Watts Orchard's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Watts Orchard's hours?+
Hours at Watts Orchard vary by season. We recommend calling ahead at 231-937-4094 or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Watts Orchard?+
Pick-your-own apple prices in the U.S. typically run $1.50–$3.00 per pound, or $20–$40 for a half-bushel bag. Watts Orchard sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Watts Orchard?+
Watts Orchard grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is Watts Orchard good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Watts Orchard welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to Watts Orchard?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Watts Orchard to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Watts Orchard?+
Watts Orchard has on-site parking that's free for guests. Fall weekends are the busiest, mornings are the calmest time to visit.
What should I bring to Watts Orchard?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Watts Orchard usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: USDA Local Food Portal · Confidence: High
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