Fall Is Arriving in Lansing: 5 Signs You’ll Notice This Season
As Michiganders soak up the last days of summer, Lansing and the surrounding areas are already tipping into autumn. Cooler evenings are bringing a hint of color to the trees, cider mills are prepping for their busy season, and pumpkin-spice flavors are appearing on menus and shelves. Here are five telltale signs that fall has arrived.
1) The Trees Begin to Show Color
You don’t need a full kaleidoscope of foliage to know autumn is here. On cooler evenings, some trees take on a yellow-orange blush, a preview of the brilliant colors to come. Local spots like Fenner Nature Center have already spotted these early hints of fall’s palette.
2) Cider Mills Gear Up for the Busy Season
Cider mills are starting to tease upcoming events, signaling the return of apple picking, warm cider, donuts, and family-friendly adventures. It’s a sure sign that harvest time is underway and a favorite time to gather with friends and family.
3) Pumpkin Spice Takes Over
The seasonal favorite, pumpkin spice, is making its way back into coffee cups and grocery shelves. Whether you’re a fan or not, PSL season is a reliable marker that fall has fully arrived for many Michiganders.
4) Cooler Weather Brings Hoodie Season
The temperatures are dipping enough to justify layering. Hoodie weather and sweater season are on the horizon, inviting outdoor strolls, fall festivals, and cozy evenings at home.
5) Football Fever Is Back
Football chatter and cheers are in the air. With preseason games underway, local teams and college squads fire up the autumn spirit, from Lions games to college matchups, as fans gear up for weekend tailgates and game-day traditions.
Michigan Fall Highlights and Notable Spots
– The Upper Peninsula has earned national attention for fall foliage, with scenic views along great lakes and forests drawing visitors to enjoy vibrant colors and crisp air.
– Pumpkin patches and apple orchards across the state offer U-pick experiences, cider grounds, and family-friendly activities perfect for autumn weekends.
– Scenic drives and autumn routes—like M-22 along Lake Michigan and the Tunnel of Trees along M-119—consistently rank among the nation’s best fall experiences.
– Michigan towns and festivals frequently appear on lists highlighting top fall destinations, pumpkin patches, and Halloween festivities, underscoring the state’s reputation as a premier autumn destination.
What to Plan For
– Check local cider mills for seasonal events, tastings, and family activities.
– Map out a fall foliage drive or a day trip to a nearby orchard, pumpkin patch, or festival.
– Bring layers for cooler mornings and warmer afternoons, and bring a camera to capture the changing colors.
– Take advantage of lower summer crowds by visiting parks, nature centers, and scenic byways during shoulder seasons.
Summary
Fall is shaping up as a vibrant season in Lansing and across Michigan, with color in the trees, beloved cider and pumpkin flavors returning, cooler weather inviting cozy layers, and a renewed buzz around football and outdoor adventures. It’s a season that invites both locals and visitors to enjoy Michigan’s outdoors, festivities, and scenic fall landscapes.
Additional notes
– If you’re planning trips, align visits with peak foliage windows and current event calendars for cider mills, orchards, and fall festivals.
– Consider combining outdoor activities with indoor comforts—coffee shops, farmer’s markets, and museums—to balance weather and mood.