Nothing says Halloween like a Jack o’ lantern. And while you can purchase a bevy of pumpkins at almost any store these days, there is a certain festive joy about taking a trip to the pumpkin patch. I’m proud to say my adopted home state of PA offers a whole array of opportunities for autumnal farm fun. So for those of you on the East Coast, here are seven places to pick pumpkins in Pennsylvania.
Shenot Farm in Wexford
This sustainable farm offers pick-your-own pumpkins every weekend as well as on Columbus Day. If you have time, be sure to try Shenot’s apple cider, which recently won first place in the Mid-Atlantic Cider Contest.
Simmons Farm in McMurray
This is my personal go-to for pick-your-own fruits and vegetables. The downhome atmosphere and friendly staff infuse the experience with true country charm–even though Simmons is located an easy half-hour drive from downtown Pittsburgh.
Frecon Farms in Boyertown
In addition to a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, Frecon Farms features a cidery, applewood fired pizza, a bakery, and live music. If you want to make your pumpkin picking an all-day all-inclusive event, this is the place to go.
Goose Lane Egg Farm in Sinking Spring
Located near Reading, Goose Lane Egg Farm lives up to its name with a variety of eggs and poultry available directly to the public. But fall also means the farm offers pick-your-own pumpkins every weekend along with a hay maze and other activities. An easygoing vibe makes this farm a no-muss, no-fuss excursion for the whole family.
Gray Wolf Planation in New Oxford
Situated on an eighteenth-century former plantation, Gray Wolf is open from 10 a.m. until sundown each day. With a variety of events throughout the fall season, the pick-your-own pumpkins is just one of many fun things to do on the historic grounds.
Ontelaunee Orchards in Leesport
This 1,000-acre farm was founded in the 1920s and is still going strong today. And with their own brand of apple cider, the daily pick-your-own pumpkins at Ontelaunee get extra delicious accompaniment.
Smithfield Farms Field of Adventure in Aspers
The purveyors at Smithfield Farms understand that for some of us, fall is a real event. Consequently, they transform their farm into an amazing festive experience, one almost akin to a major theme park. Offering a seven-acre corn maze, pumpkin bowling, ziplining, wagon rides, and more, the pick-your-own pumpkins (and pick-your-own popcorn!) are a perfect way to end a full day of fun activities in Aspers.
As always, before you visit any of these locations, be sure to call ahead to verify hours. We here at Weird Wanderings don’t want any disappointed pumpkin pickers this Halloween!
Happy haunting!