It’s fall y’all and you know what that means? Pumpkins, corn mazes and ALL the candy corn. Check out our Smarty favorite spots for where to go, how to prepare before you get there and what to do once you are.
Carrigan Farms Pumpkin Picking
For those willing to take a short drive to Mooresville, Carrigan Farms is well worth the trip. This farm has a unique setting with its stunning rock quarry, which doubles as a swimming hole in the warmer months. In the fall, Carrigan Farms transforms into an autumn wonderland, offering not only pumpkins but also apple picking and haunted trails for those looking for a bit of a thrill.
What to expect:
– Pumpkin picking straight from the vine
– Scenic hayrides
– Haunted trail (weekends in October)
– Apple picking available
Website: Carrigan Farms
Address: 1261 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy, Mooresville, NC
Hall Family Farm
Located south of Charlotte, Hall Family Farm is another local favorite. This family-run farm is a super popular spot. In addition to picking out the perfect pumpkin, families can enjoy a corn maze, kids’ play areas, and a large selection of seasonal treats. On the weekends, live music and food trucks add to the fall festive vibe. It’s a great spot for a fun day out with the family.
What to expect:
Pumpkin patch with a variety of sizes and shapes
– 5-acre corn maze
– Kid-friendly activities (hayrides, playgrounds)
– Fresh cider, caramel apples, and other fall treats
Website: Hall Family Farm
Address: 445 W. Rebound Rd, Lancaster, SC (just over the border from Charlotte)
Aw Shucks Farms
A visit to Aw Shucks Farms in Monroe, NC, promises not just pumpkins, but an immersive farm experience with a rustic general store, a corn maze, and even a small train ride for kids. This farm focuses on providing a hands-on, interactive experience that appeals to all ages. After you’ve picked out your pumpkin, stick around for the farm’s bonfire nights and live music events, which create a lively fall atmosphere. If you’re on the daring side, check out their scary 13th Acre Haunted Trail.
What to expect:
– Large pumpkin patch
– Corn maze with varying difficulty levels
– Historic train car tour and farm animals
– Bonfires and live music on weekends
Website: Aw Shucks Farms
Address: 3718 Plyler Mill Rd, Monroe, NC
Hodges Family Farm Pumpkin Patch
The Hodges Family Farm Pumpkin Patch is a longstanding tradition in Charlotte, offering a true “pick-your-own” pumpkin experience. Situated in the Derita neighborhood, this patch is ideal for those looking for a more low-key, community-focused outing. The farm has been a staple in the Charlotte area for generations, making it a nostalgic favorite for many locals. It’s a smaller operation compared to others on this list, but it has a charm all its own.
What to expect:
– Variety of pumpkins
– Hayrides
– Family-owned with a welcoming atmosphere
– Great for the little Smarties
Website: Hodges Family Farm
Address: 3900 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte, NC
Smarty Tips When Packing up the Fam:
Timing: Weekends in October are the busiest, so if you’re looking to avoid crowds, try visiting on a weekday or early in the morning.
Prepare for the Weather: Fall in Charlotte can be unpredictable. Bring layers, especially for evening visits, and don’t forget comfortable shoes for walking through the fields.
Bring Cash: While many pumpkin patches now accept credit cards, some activities and food vendors might still be cash-only.
Make It a Full-Day Event: Most of these farms offer more than just pumpkins. Plan to spend a few hours enjoying the corn mazes, hayrides, and seasonal treats.
