Why New York’s Fly Creek Cider Mill Was Just Named the Best in America

One of the things my family loves to do more than anything is get in the car with no real plan, no map, and just explore. That is how we discovered Fly Creek, New York, and instantly fell in love with it.

It's big enough to have plenty to see and do, but small enough to hold onto the kind of charm that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile. One of its most popular stops has now earned some major national bragging rights.

The Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard, located just minutes outside Cooperstown, was recently voted the Best Cidery in the United States in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

This top spot follows a pattern of national praise. Fly Creek was named America’s Best Cidery in 2024 and took third place in 2025 before returning to number one this year, according to the mill’s announcement about the award.

Visiting Fly Creek Cider Mill Near Cooperstown

Located at 288 Goose Street in Fly Creek, roughly three miles from central Cooperstown, the property dates back to 1856. The mill still makes cider with its historic 1889 press, powered by water from the Millpond, giving visitors a chance to see a piece of New York history at work.

It's much more than a place to grab a quick drink. Visitors can watch traditional cider-making, explore the marketplace, and pick up something to eat from the bakery and snack barn while enjoying views of the Millpond.

You'll find freshly pressed sweet cider, hard cider, apple wines, cider donuts, homemade fudge, aged New York cheddar, and plenty of regional specialty foods. There is enough to do that it is easy to turn a quick stop into part of the day.

Plan a Day Trip to Fly Creek, New York

For families exploring Upstate New York, Fly Creek is an easy day trip or an ideal addition to a Cooperstown itinerary. It is about 90 minutes northeast of Binghamton, making it a scenic Central New York drive, especially during fall foliage season.

The Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard visitor information page lists the address as 288 Goose Street, Fly Creek, New York 13337. The mill is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through December 20, 2026.

Before heading out, check the mill’s website for seasonal events, tasting room details, and cider pressing times.

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There's something special about taking an unplanned turn and finding a place you know you will return to for years. For our family, Fly Creek was one of those unexpected finds. It turns out the rest of the country agrees.