As the fall season arrives, it brings with it the perfect opportunity to embrace the crisp autumn air and enjoy festive activities. One of the most cherished fall traditions is visiting pumpkin patches.
Whether you're looking to carve the perfect jack-o’-lantern or simply want to immerse yourself in a day of family fun, pumpkin patches across the U.S. offer a variety of experiences to make your visit memorable. In this guide, we'll take you through the top 10 pumpkin patches in the nation, with each location offering a unique combination of activities, regional highlights, and community engagement.
1. Burt’s Pumpkin Farm – Dawsonville, Georgia
Located in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Burt’s Pumpkin Farm is a Southern staple. This patch is known for its large pumpkins that can grow up to 150 pounds. Besides pumpkin picking, Burt’s offers a family-friendly hayride through the gorgeous fall foliage, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Variety of Offerings:
- Hayrides with views of beautiful autumn leaves
- Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes
- A selection of homemade pumpkin pies and baked goods
Regional Diversity:
Burt’s is nestled in the heart of Georgia’s countryside, giving visitors a taste of Southern hospitality and the rural charm of the Appalachian region.
Community Involvement:
The farm supports local vendors and artisans, selling crafts and goods that celebrate the spirit of fall in the South.
Related: Bring Autumn Indoors: 16 Must-Have Fall Home Scents for Cozy Vibes
2. Roloff Farms – Hillsboro, Oregon
Fans of the TLC show Little People, Big World will recognize Roloff Farms as the setting for the popular reality series. This family-owned farm in the Pacific Northwest is not only famous for its pumpkins but also for its sprawling 100-acre farm.
Variety of Offerings:
- Guided tours of the farm
- A petting zoo with farm animals
- Adventure zones for children with slides, mazes, and activities
Regional Diversity:
Roloff Farms highlights Oregon's stunning natural landscape with its backdrop of towering trees and misty mornings. The farm gives visitors a chance to explore the rich agricultural traditions of the Pacific Northwest.
Community Involvement:
Throughout the year, the Roloff family hosts events that focus on inclusivity and education, offering workshops and donating portions of proceeds to local charities.
3. Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm – Crest Hill, Illinois
Situated just outside of Chicago, Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm offers a variety of fall-themed activities in addition to pumpkin picking. This family-owned farm transforms into a festive wonderland each autumn, attracting visitors of all ages.
Variety of Offerings:
- A 10-acre corn maze with intricate designs
- Zombie paintball and haunted attractions for thrill-seekers
- Petting zoo and pony rides for younger children
Regional Diversity:
Illinois is known for its vast cornfields, and Siegel’s takes full advantage of the Midwest’s agricultural bounty by offering both pumpkins and corn-based activities like mazes and hayrides.
Community Involvement:
Siegel’s Farm is dedicated to local causes, frequently hosting events that support nearby schools and nonprofit organizations.
4. Tanaka Farms – Irvine, California
Located in sunny Orange County, Tanaka Farms is unique in offering a pumpkin patch experience with a coastal twist. This farm has been run by the Tanaka family for generations, and it incorporates both traditional pumpkin-picking fun and an educational focus on sustainable farming.
Variety of Offerings:
- U-pick pumpkins and wagon rides
- Educational tours focused on sustainable agriculture
- A Fall Harvest Festival with live music, food vendors, and games
Regional Diversity:
Set in the heart of Southern California, Tanaka Farms gives visitors a chance to enjoy the mild weather while participating in traditional fall activities with a distinct West Coast vibe.
Community Involvement:
The farm partners with local schools to offer educational field trips and donates a portion of its harvest to local food banks.
Related: Enhance Autumn Vibes with the Luxurious Diptyque Noisetier Candle
5. Pumpkin Hollow – Piggott, Arkansas
Pumpkin Hollow has been a family tradition in Arkansas for over 20 years. This charming farm combines old-fashioned pumpkin picking with a haunted twist, offering visitors a unique fall experience.
Variety of Offerings:
- A spooky haunted house and haunted hayride
- A fun corn maze and pumpkin patch
- Farm animals and playgrounds for children
Regional Diversity:
Nestled in the Arkansas Delta, Pumpkin Hollow showcases the state’s agricultural roots while also celebrating the spooky side of fall.
Community Involvement:
Pumpkin Hollow works closely with local charities, organizing fundraising events and donating pumpkins to community groups during the fall season.
6. The Great Pumpkin Farm – Clarence, New York
Located near Buffalo, The Great Pumpkin Farm lives up to its name with one of the largest selections of pumpkins in the country. This expansive farm hosts a variety of seasonal events and attractions, making it a top destination for fall fun in the Northeast.
Variety of Offerings:
- A Pumpkin Weigh-Off competition for the largest pumpkins
- Magic shows, amusement rides, and food vendors
- Corn maze and scarecrow-making contests
Regional Diversity:
Visitors can take in the beauty of Western New York’s fall foliage while enjoying traditional fall activities that highlight the state’s agricultural heritage.
Community Involvement:
The farm is a hub for community gatherings, supporting local artisans, and hosting charity events that benefit the Buffalo area.
7. Froberg's Farm – Alvin, Texas
Froberg’s Farm offers a pumpkin patch with a distinct Texas flair. Known for its variety of fresh produce year-round, this farm is a favorite among Houston-area families for its family-friendly atmosphere and exciting activities.
Variety of Offerings:
- U-pick pumpkin fields
- Corn maze, hayrides, and a flower-picking experience
- An outdoor market featuring local Texas treats like pecan pies and jams
Regional Diversity:
Froberg’s celebrates Texas agriculture with farm-fresh produce and seasonal delights, offering a down-home experience for visitors.
Community Involvement:
This family-owned farm partners with local charities and schools, providing a space for community events and educational programs.
8. Bauman’s Farm and Garden – Gervais, Oregon
Bauman’s Farm and Garden is a gem in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, offering a perfect mix of fun and agricultural education. This farm is known for its expansive fall festival, making it a great spot for families.
Variety of Offerings:
- Corn maze, apple cannons, and zip lines
- Petting zoo and pony rides for kids
- Farm-fresh produce and homemade apple cider donuts
Regional Diversity:
The farm is situated in one of the most fertile regions of Oregon, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy fresh produce while taking in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Community Involvement:
Bauman’s Farm plays a significant role in supporting local food banks and schools through various fundraising efforts and donation drives.
Related: 12 Autumn Gardening Tips to Protect Your Plants and Lawn for Winter
9. Vala’s Pumpkin Patch – Gretna, Nebraska
Vala’s Pumpkin Patch is one of the largest in the Midwest, offering over 50 attractions spread across 400 acres. It’s a beloved fall tradition for Nebraska families and has been in operation for more than 35 years.
Variety of Offerings:
- Haunted houses, corn mazes, and live shows
- Pig races, train rides, and pumpkin catapults
- Freshly made apple cider and pumpkin-themed foods
Regional Diversity:
Set in Nebraska’s heartland, Vala’s gives visitors a chance to enjoy the rural beauty of the Midwest while engaging in fun fall activities that celebrate the region’s agricultural roots.
Community Involvement:
Vala’s hosts multiple charity events throughout the season, working with local organizations to provide resources and donations to the community.
10. Schuster’s Farm – Deerfield, Wisconsin
Schuster’s Farm is a family-owned farm located just outside of Madison, Wisconsin. It’s a fantastic destination for families looking to enjoy traditional fall activities in the Midwest.
Variety of Offerings:
- A sprawling corn maze and a haunted forest walk
- Tractor rides and a pumpkin patch
- Homemade fudge, caramel apples, and other fall treats
Regional Diversity:
Schuster’s Farm takes pride in highlighting Wisconsin’s farming heritage, offering visitors a chance to learn about local agricultural practices while enjoying the beauty of the state’s fall foliage.
Community Involvement:
Schuster’s is committed to giving back to the local community, hosting events that support local schools and nonprofit organizations.
Related: Pack Like a Pro: Picnic Must-Haves for a Flawless Outdoor Adventure
Best Practices for Visiting Pumpkin Patches
When planning your visit to any of these top pumpkin patches, there are a few best practices to keep in mind to ensure you make the most of your experience:
1. Visit During Peak Season
The best time to visit most pumpkin patches is from late September through October. This is when the pumpkins are at their prime, and most farms offer their full range of activities.
2. Check for Special Events
Many pumpkin patches host special events, such as pumpkin festivals, live entertainment, or charity fundraisers. Be sure to check their event calendars ahead of time for any unique happenings that might enhance your visit.
3. Prepare for Weather
Fall weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to dress in layers and bring along rain gear if necessary. Some patches may close certain activities if the weather is poor, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead.
4. Engage with Local Communities
Many pumpkin patches partner with local charities or host community events. Participating in these initiatives is a great way to give back and support the local area while enjoying your fall day out.
5. Bring the Whole Family
Pumpkin patches are designed to be family-friendly, offering activities for all ages. Whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Activities such as hayrides, petting zoos, and corn mazes are staples of many patches and provide a full day of entertainment for the entire family.
Related: Chilling Board Games Perfect for Your Halloween Gathering
Final Thoughts
These top 10 pumpkin patches across the nation showcase the best of fall, combining traditional pumpkin picking with a range of exciting activities and events. Each patch is unique in its offerings, regional charm, and community involvement, making them perfect destinations for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Wherever you are in the U.S., you're never too far from a top-notch pumpkin patch that offers more than just pumpkins. So, grab your flannel, and head out for a fun-filled day of pumpkin picking this fall!
