Leaman’s vs. Bayne’s: May the Best Apple Farm Win

Leaman’s wins the orchard challenge!
Photo by: Alex Joynt

Nick Ludka ’15

Staff Writer

It is that time of year again… football season is here, the pumpkin spice lattes are back, and the leaves are turning color; but most importantly, the apple farms of Saginaw county are open for business. The top two in the county are Bayne’s, on Midland Rd, and Leaman’s on River Road in Freeland. Bayne’s is a staple to the kids growing up in Saginaw. Many days were spent swinging on the swingset out front and going inside to smell the fresh baked goods, or so we all thought. I went out to settle an age old debate as to what apple farm is the best based off of three characteristics: location, atmosphere, and cider donuts. First with location, Bayne’s takes the cake…or the pumpkin pie. Located on River Road between Saginaw and Freeland, Bayne’s offers fall fun to all those around. We all know that smile we get when we drive by and see the Bayne’s sign in the fall. Maybe, just maybe, being lucky enough to stop by and stay awhile. Bayne’s also takes the pie for the atmosphere. With an outdoor pumpkin patch and a bakery inside, Bayne’s keeps you feeling welcome from arrival to departure. The aroma of freshly made donuts and pies fill the cool Autumn air as you walk around the store observing all the items you wish you could buy but won’t ever use. Although Leaman’s does feature a corn maze and pumpkin patch, this is offset by the donkey pen 20 yards from the store. Something about drinking cider in front of a donkey pen isn’t too appealing. All of these features add to the fall experience, but nothing has a greater influence than the cider donut. This deep fried circle of goodness is a staple to Michiganders in the fall. I set out to both Leaman’s and Bayne’s to eat what they have to offer. With confidence I can say that Leaman’s has the better cider donut. Although from the outside Bayne’s is more appealing, if you are looking for the superior donut, Leaman’s is the place to go.