Touring the Louisburg Cider Mill
I know it's technically still summer, but fall is right around the corner and and I can't wait. To start anticipating all the fun fall brings, this week, I took the girls on our annual trek to the Louisburg Cider Mill (14730 Hwy 68, 913.837.5202. Cider Mill Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, Sunday 9am-6am.). I called ahead and verified that they would be making cider in the morning, so we made a point to get there early for to watch as fresh cider was made right before our eyes. If you've never been, this is a definite "autumn must do" in the KC area.
Fresh cider is made from scratch at the cider mill every day a shipment of apples arrives (call ahead to ensure you'll watch cider making, but right now it is nearly every day). From your first step on the property, you'll smell the aroma of the cider. The apples are washed outside the cider mill itself before traveling up a conveyor belt to the mill for processing:
Next, we went inside the mill, where signs clearly describe the cider making process as machines whirl away making the delicious drink:
Then, we walked toward the main building, where windows gave us a view of workers bottling the cider. Inside the Cider Mill Shop, we watched as donuts were made with the fresh cider:
And finally, we purchased some chilled sparkling cider (another annual tradition... we love to taste-test the flavors to determine our favorites.... the raspberry apple cider is my favorite), a gallon of cider to enjoy at home, and a dozen of the BEST donuts in Kansas City (followed by Lamar's of course)!
In a few more weeks, you'll be able to also visit the Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze (this year's design is a Wizard and the GRAND OPENING is September 16-18, 2011) with a Fishing Hole, Farm Animals, Play Area, Picnic Area, Straw Castle, and Hay Rides. Admission is charged for the Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze. And, one of the fall's best festivals is the annual Cider Fest Sept. 24 & 25, and Oct. 2 & 3 where you can enjoy Handmade Crafts, Barbeque, Live Music, Old Fashioned Good Eats, Pumpkins and a lot of other Fun Activities! From the Pumpkin Patch to Kettle Corn, there is something for everyone in the family. Craft Fair, Fresh Cider Making, Cider Donuts, Live Music, Kids Activities, Hay Castle, Hayrides, and Farm Animal Viewing Area! We love Cider Fest and we can't wait for this year's event!
If you're looking for some old-fashioned, one-of-a-kind, autumn fun with the family, the Louisburg Cider Mill is a must see! While you're there, discover more fun in Louisburg with our Louisburg Day Trip Guide.
What are your favorite fall outings?
Written by Kristina Light