ML Interest Tag: flower-picking

The Best Pumpkin Patches to Visit in LA with Kids

by Jennifer O'Brien

Go for a pumpkin or two but stay for the face painting, bounce houses, and photo ops—without delay, here are our favorite pumpkin patches near LA

Every year, autumn delivers its own special magic—the air is a little crisper, the leaves change to fiery reds, oranges, and golds (fine, it’s mostly palm trees, but stay with us), and the season brings festive traditions your family has grown to love. Whether you spend the day picking the perfect pumpkin for your porch, pose in front of hay bales for the Gram, or escape the city for some fall festival fun, we’ve got the best events in SoCal that will leave you screaming, “Fall-elujah!”

Culver City: Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch

Since 1987, this beloved pumpkin patch has been a fan fave for myriad LA families. In addition to seeing ghouls and ghosts during your visit, you may also catch a glimpse of some movie stars as Mr. Bones is famous for being a celeb hotspot. With a focus on bringing a farm experience to the city, this pumpkin patch features lots of festive activities to get your brood in the Halloween mood. Stop by the Pumpkin Village and Tipi Villages; get your faces painted; explore the straw maze; check out the Mr. Bones Super Slide, Rainbow Slide, and Itsy-Bitsy Spider Bounce; visit with some furry friends at the petting zoo; pick out a pumpkin and decorate it on-site; and enjoy lots of live entertainment and delicious food truck delights.

For an extra special VIP experience on Sat. and Sun., you can purchase a Plus Pass that gets you bonuses like expedited patch entry, free drinks and snacks, unlimited access to certain activities, and even access to private toilets – ooh la la…or should we say boo la la.

When: Oct. 5 – Oct. 29, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: Tickets are available online beginning Oct. 1 and they often sell out, so plan accordingly. Entry ranges from $10 – $30 depending on date, and tickets for activities start at $1 each. Ticket packages are also available for a discounted rate and an unlimited kid’s pass costs $30.

Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch
10100 Jefferson Blvd.
Culver City
Online: mrbonespumpkinpatch.com

Los Cerritos: Fallstivities Pumpkin Patch

Get a little shopping done at the Los Cerritos Mall then head over to the Fallstivities Pumpkin Patch for a frightfully fun-filled day of Halloween activities. From bounce house inflatables, an inflatable rock climb, a Big Trike Track, and lighted scooters to a new Baby Shark Land (for ages 2 – 4), music and food, face painting, and photo ops with Snoopy and the Gang, Scooby Doo, and Barbie, your fam will be smiling from ear to ear. Of course, you also come here for the pumpkins and there’s a swell selection of those as well.

When: Sept. 30 – Oct. 30, Mon. – Fri, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. and Sat. – Sun., 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: Free admission, but certain activities cost extra

Fallstivities Pumpkin Patch
Los Cerritos Mall
239 Los Cerritos Ct.
Cerritos
Online: fallstivitiespumpkinpatch.com

Santa Monica: Shawn’s Pumpkin Patch

If you’re on the hunt for a long-stemmed, delightfully plump pumpkin, you’ve come to the right place. Shawn’s Pumpkin Patch has a great selection of pumpkins and gourds, but there are tons of cool activities too. Check out the bounce houses, pony rides, petting zoo, train rides, mini straw maze, giant inflatable slides, face painting, and oodles of photo ops.

When: Sept. 30 – Oct. 31. Daily hours vary, so be sure to check the schedule online.
Cost: Entrance fee is $2.50 per person (ages 15 and above) on Sat. and Sun. while younger kids are free. Weekdays are free for everyone.

Shawn’s Pumpkin Patch
11650 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica
Online: shawnspumpkinpatch.com

The Best Pumpkin Patches in the Valley

Moorpark: Underwood Family Farms

Much to everyone’s delight, Underwood’s famous Fall Harvest Festival returns to Moorpark once again this year with more autumnal activities than ever. Your family will love the pumpkin patch, pumpkin house, hay pyramids, animal center, pig races, cotton harvester and combine slides, tractor-drawn wagon rides, corn maze, fun hill with tunnels and wooden fire truck, misting tunnel, live bands, theme weekends, and so much more!

When: Sept. 30 – Oct. 31, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: Weekend tickets are only available online and range from $26 – $30 per person depending on when you visit. Admission Mon. – Fri. is available at the gate only and costs $14. Admission price includes all activities.

Underwood Family Farms
3370 Sunset Valley Rd.
Moorpark
Online: underwoodfamilyfarms.com/fall-harvest

Sherman Oaks: Tina’s Pumpkin Patch

If you’re looking for a more chill pumpkin patch vibe, Tina’s may be straight up your alley. Located in the Westfield Fashion Square Mall parking lot (off Woodman & the 101 Fwy), this low-key pumpkin patch features a fab selection of pumpkins and lots of exciting activities, including pony rides, a petting zoo, a pumpkin patch train, bouncers, a giant slide and a straw maze.

When: Sept. 30 – Oct. 31, Sun. – Thurs., 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Fri. – Sat., 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: Free admission and parking.

Tina’s Pumpkin Patch
Westfield Fashion Square Mall
4725 Woodman Ave.
Sherman Oaks
Online: tinaspumpkinpatch.com

Encino: Tapia Bros. Farm Stand and Pumpkin Patch

This farm-fresh market stand is well-known for its super fresh fruits and veggies, but come October, their pumpkin patch is where it’s at. In addition to an awesome selection of pumpkins, guests will love checking out the corn maze, petting zoo, pony rides, and train rides.

When: Oct. 1 – Oct. 31. Open daily 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. the first couple weeks, then 9 a.m. – late (time TBD) as the dates get closer Halloween.
Cost: $3 per person (admission cost can be applied toward your purchase of a pumpkin).

Tapia Bros. Farm Stand
5251 Hayvenhurst Ave.
Encino
Online: facebook.com/TapiaBrosFarm

Irvine: Irvine Railroad Pumpkin Patch

Irvine Park Railroad’s Pumpkin Patch makes for a fun fall day out with the fam! Located behind the train station, the pumpkin patch features tons of activities that will delight all ages including a haunted house, hay maze, train rides, hayrides, moon bounce, panning for gold, face painting, John Deere racers, pumpkin decorating, carnival games, and more.

When: Sept. 16 – Oct. 31, weekdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and weekends 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: Admission is free. Activity tickets are $7 each or buy a book of 15 for $90. Parking is $3 on weekdays, $5 on weekends, and $7 on holidays.

Irvine Railroad
1 Irvine Park Rd.
Irvine
Online: irvineparkrailroad.com/events/pumpkin-patch

Irvine: Tanaka Farms

Ever dreamed of picking your very own pumpkin right out of the pumpkin patch? Tanaka Farms is one of the only farms in Orange County that features a real pumpkin patch with a “u-pick” option for guests. On weekdays, other festive activities include wagon rides, a barnyard educational exhibit, and a corn maze. On weekends, the fun also includes arts and crafts, mini ATVs, festival games, farmer golf, and the famous pumpkin cannon. If you’re hungry, the Tanaka Grill serves up delicious farm fare Wed. – Sun., and the produce market stand is open daily.

When: Sept. 16 – Oct. 31, Mon. – Thurs.; Sun., 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Fri. – Sat., 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.;  Halloween, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Admission Mon. – Fri. until noon is $20. After 12 p.m. on Fri. and all day Sat. – Sun. it’s $22. Children 2 and under are free. Admission includes certain activities, but for others that cost extra, you can buy activity tickets for $6 each or get 6 for $30. Parking is $10 starting at noon on Fri. and all weekend.

Tanaka Farms
5380 ¾ University Dr.
Irvine
Online: tanakafarms.com/tanaka-farms-pumpkin-patch

Costa Mesa: Tanaka Farms Hana Field Pumpkin Patch and Flower Fields

For a more unique and relaxed experience, visit Tanaka Farms’ second location – the Hana Field Pumpkin Patch and Flower Fields in Costa Mesa. With 8 acres of u-pick pumpkins and fields of blooming flowers as far as the eye can see, you can take your time exploring as long as you like and get some great photos along the way. There’s also a corn maze, flower picking (when available), a barnyard educational exhibit with lots of animals, a kids’ play area, a cow train, arts and crafts, face painting, and a pumpkin cannon. If you work up an appetite, grab a bite from the Hana Field food truck or bring food of your own and picnic on site.

When: Sept. 30 – Oct. 29, Sat. – Sun. only, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: Admission is $10 per person (kids under age 2 are free). Certain activities are included, but others cost $6 each or get 6 tickets for $30. No parking passes are required this year.

Hana Field by Tanaka Farms
427 Anton Blvd.
Costa Mesa
Online: tanakafarms.com/hana-field-pumpkin-patch

The Best Pumpkin Patches in San Bernardino

Skyforest: Pumpkins in the Pines

Pumpkins in the Pines returns to SkyPark at Santa’s Village this fall with family-friendly activities galore, including a park-wide pumpkin patch, trick-or-treating, costume contests, pumpkin painting, the Legend of Sleepy Hollow Puppet Show, and lots of tasty seasonal food and beverages to enjoy.

When: Oct. 7 – Oct. 29, Sat. – Sun. only, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: Costs cover park admission, as well as access to Pumpkins in the Pines – $59 per person (ages 13-59), $49 per person (ages 4 -12 and ages 60 – 74). Young ones (under 3) and the young at heart (75 and over) are free. Parking is $10.

SkyPark at Santa’s Village
28950 California 18
Skyforest
Online: skyparksantasvillage.com

Redlands: Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Farm

Want to escape LA for the day and fulfill all your pumpkin spiced dreams? Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Farm is only a 60 – 90 min. drive from the city and is well worth the trip. With gorgeous fall foliage, stunning flower gardens, the largest outdoor pumpkin patch and largest petting zoo in SoCal, rides, games, ponies, a corn maze, lots of delicious food and more, it’s the perfect getaway for the season.

When: Sept. 22 – Oct. 31, Mon. – Thur., 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Fri. 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; and Sun. 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: Tickets range from $6 – $17 for kids and $11 – $28 for adults, depending on the day you visit. Littles aged 2 and under are free. Certain activities are included in cost of admission, while other rides and attractions require additional tickets. Parking is also free.

Live Oak Canyon
32335 Live Oak Canyon Rd.
Redlands
Online: liveoakcanyon.com

The Best Pumpkin Experiences in LA

Descanso Gardens

La Canada Flintridge: Descanso Gardens

One of our favorite haunts during Halloween season is Descanso Gardens and their annual family-friendly Carved event. You can’t buy a pumpkin here, but you can soak up tons of inspiration strolling by the incredible pumpkin carvings lining the Camellia Forest. As visitors wander the route and and pass through the picturesque Rose Garden, they will be enchanted by glowing jack-o’-lanterns, fallen tree sculptures, and whimsical displays. And don’t miss the Día de los Muertos altar, the popular Pumpkin House, giant carved pumpkins, and a glow-in-the-dark installation called Rhizome by Tom & Lien Dekyvere.

When: Oct. 6 – Oct. 29, daily 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: Tickets are timed entry and must be purchased in advance online. General admission ranges from $35 – $45 for adults and $25 – $30 for children. Kids under 2 are free but still require tickets.

Decsanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Dr.
La Canada Flintridge
Online: descansogardens.org/programs-events/carved

Pomona: Pumpkin Festival at Cal Poly

Cal Poly’s Huntley College of Agriculture grows 40,000 pumpkins annually for this festival which draws as many as 120,000 visitors, making it one of the largest events in the entire California State University system. In addition to pumpkins, the festival features two corn mazes, a sunflower field, a petting farm, games, hay wagon rides, live music, artisan craft vendors, food and drinks, and fun displays and demonstrations from Huntley College student clubs and agricultural organizations. There’s also a new Pumpkin Land filled with an amazing variety of pumpkins and gourds making beautiful creations.

When: Sept. 30 – Oct. 29, Fri. – Sun., 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: Adults are $10 on weekends and $6 on Value Fri. Kids (ages 3 – 12) are $8 on weekends and $4 on Value Fri. Littles under age 3 are free. Tickets sell out, so purchase early online if you plan on attending. Some activities are included in the admission price, while others cost extra. Activity wristbands can be purchased that give visitors unlimited access to all ticketed attractions.

Cal Poly Pomona
4102 S. University Dr.
Pomona
Online: cpp.edu/pumpkinfestival

Make sure to capture all the fall fun—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

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Ear You Go! Amazing Corn Mazes near NYC

by Yuliya Geikhman

You and the family will have a blast exploring these creative corn mazes near NYC this fall

One of our favorite things to do in the fall is to tackle a good corn maze—where getting lost is part of the fun! Local farms near NYC break out new designs every year, and fall 2022 does not disappoint! We found the best corn mazes near NYC with cool options like moonlight mazes, corn maze games, and a corn maze train!

Alstede Farms

A family-owned 600-acre farm, Alstede Farms has not one, not two, but three mazes for fall fun: a corn maze, a sunflower maze and an evergreen maze. The corn maze includes fun facts about the maze's theme (which changes annually), and for thrillseekers, you can tackle it at night by the light of a flashlight with a Harvest Moon Hayride. 

Cost: all are included with pick-your-own admission (advance purchase required)
1 Alstede Farms Ln.
Chester, NJ
Online: alstedefarms.com

Queens County Farm Museum

The Amazing Maize Maze is the only corn maze that you can get to without leaving the city. All maze explorations begin with a "Stalk Talk" so visitors know what to expect. Then, you follow clues and complete puzzles to get through the three-acre maze. At the end of the maze, you'll find yourself at the overlook bridge, where you can see the full design from above. 

Cost: $12/adult, $8/child ages 4–11
73-50 Little Neck Pkwy.
Floral Park, NY
Online: queensfarm.org

Ort Farms

The Ort Farms maze is an impressive six acres and take about half an hour to complete. Visit on weekends for a full farm experience, featuring all sorts of rides: train, pony, hay, and even monster truck rides!   

Cost: $9.95 per person
25 Bartley Rd.
Long Valley, NJ
Online: ortfarms.com

 

Related: Praise the Gourd: Where to Go Pumpkin Picking Near NYC

Von Thun Farms

Von Thun Farms' corn maze has a lot going on—in a good way. (Note the farm has two locations.) The maze is split into two sections: one is perfect for kids, while the rest of the maze (the bulk of it) is for all ages. All in all, it takes about 30-45 minutes to complete the maze.

At the South Brunswick location, you can try finding your way around in the dark, in the Moonlight Maze. Besides the maze, you can also enjoy hay rides or make s'mores by the campfire. Prices for the Moonlight Maze start at $10 (for just the maze) and up.

Cost: Starting at $17.99 for general admission.
519 Ridge Road
South Brunswick, NJ

438 Route 57 West
Washington, NJ
Online: vonthunfarms.com

Stony Hill Farms

Stony Hill Farms' "Maze Quest Corn Maze" is a whopping 10 acres! The maze includes games throughout the maze, some bridges for a birds-eye view of the maze, winding paths and dead ends, as well as a "Maze Master" who'll come to your aid if you're really stumped (just seek them out or call them on the phone and they'll come to you!). The farm also has a miniature, one-acre corn maze for the little ones if 10 acres is a bit too much to handle. 

Cost: Starting at $16.99, kids under 2 are free
15 North Rd.
Chester, NJ
Online: stonyhillfarms.com

Happy Day Farm

This year's 10-acre maze celebrates 10 years of Happiness! You'll find it to be an image of sunflowers, pumpkins, and a tractor to celebrate the season. As you make your way through the maze, you can play a game of Maize-O-Poly by matching squares on your game board to specific spots around the corn maze. Earn as much (play) money as you can to receive the title "Farmer of the Ear." If you get stuck, you can text the "intelligent question master" for a hint—but before he helps you out, you'll need to answer a question correctly!

This farm also features fall festival fun on weekends with tons of activities for kids—pig races, giant slide, hay mountain, pumpkin bowling, U-Pick sunflowers, and much more. 

Cost: $21
106 Iron Ore Rd.
Manalapan, NJ
Online: happydayfarmnj.com

Related: Top Seed: The Best Spots for NYC Apple Picking

F & W Schmitt's Family Farm

The farm holds a fall fest from September 17 to October 30 this year. For an additional fee, you can access many other attractions, including pony rides and a petting zoo, sunflower, vegetable and pumpkin picking (but no apple picking), as well as a haunted house and haunted corn trail (which you can do during the day with little ones). 

Tickets must be bought at the door only, there are no online reservations.

Cost: $10 (separate from admission).
26 Pinelawn Rd.
Melville, NY
Online: schmittfarms.com

Fairview Farm

If you've had enough of wandering around, take a break at one of the maze's two bridges, which provide views of the surrounding farmland, Mecox Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Looking for some fun novelty? Little kids will enjoy making a mess in giant tractor tires filled with corn. You can also test your aim with the "corn cannon."

Of course, traditional fall goodies are also available here, like pumpkin picking, fresh produce for sale and, best of all, 20 different kinds of homemade pies!

Cost: $14/adult, $12/children, free for kids 3 and under.
69 Horsemill Ln.
Bridgehampton, NY
Online: fairviewfarmatmecox.com

Delaware River Railroad Excursions Corn Maze Train

How's this for blowing your train-crazy kid's mind?: a corn maze you get to via steam train. Yes, it's true. You'll have to drive and hour-and-a-half to get to where you board, but that's small sacrifice for pure joy. While getting there is half the fun, once you arrive you're treated to an experience that's more interactive than the average maze. 

There are two main games you can play. In one, you're tasked with finding six podiums within the maze, then making your "corn card" with the distinct hole punch found at each of the podiums. Participants who find all six get a small prize! The other similarly has you finding six hidden locations in the maze and punching a special card, but this time you're looking to uncover which monster has kidnapped Boots, the farm dog! 

For an additional fee, in addition to the mazes, you can tour the Ol Susquehanna Gem Stone Mine and learn how to mine for gems, which you can take home.

Cost: $5 add on to any train ticket
99 Elizabeth St.
Phillipsburg, NJ
Online: nyswths.org

Related: The BIGGEST (& Best) of Fall Crafts, Ever

corn mazes near nyc
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Wright Family Farm

This five-acre corn maze is the perfect length to get lost in—but not too lost. If you really need some help, though, you'll have some "Corny Passports" to consult for a hint. Two bridges provide a step up to see your surroundings, and take a breather.

Beyond the maze, you'll find pumpkin picking, a cow train ride, tube slide, pumpkin bowling and more, along with tons of photo-ops! Plus, get a little destructive with the fun apple cannons or enjoy a pony ride for an additional fee.

Cost: $18 
329 Kings Highway
Warwick, NY
Online: wrightfamilyfarm.com

Hank's PumpkinTown

The PumpkinTown corn maze theme this year is Stronger Together. There are interactive elements to the maze, to keep things fresh! In one challenge, you'll learn about bees and search for six flowers hidden in the maze, with a fun trivia twist that'll either move you ahead for correct answers, or send you back for wrong ones. In another, you'll learn about Spookley the square pumpkin through a series of story boards. Plus, there are a bunch of spooky characters to find in the maze, so be on the lookout (and have your phone at the ready)!

Once you're done with those, there's an entire maze park to explore, with lots of fun attractions including three interactive corn mazes, unlimited corn train and wagon rides, a combine slide, pedal cart track, mechanical diggers, a tube slide, and much more.

Please note that the corn maze is only available on weekends.

Cost: $20 on weekends and school holidays, $12 on weekdays
240 Montauk Hwy.
Water Mill, NY
Online: hankspumpkintown.com

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Stem Sell: Where You Can Pick Your Own Flowers near NYC

by Ilyssa Smith

Maybe you picked some cherries this summer, or any number of berries recently, but have you ever ventured into acres of flowers of all kinds and snipped a few stems right from the field? From wildflowers to sunflowers, zinnias, peonies and more, here are our favorite farms near NYC for flower picking.

For a Wide Variety: Brittany Hollow Farm

Head to Brittany Hollow Farm in the Hudson Valley for one of the best selections of pick-your-own flowers near NYC. Flower varieties include zinnias, cosmos, black-eyed susans, strawflowers, snapdragons, celosia, sunflowers, butterfly weed, statice, and more, and the farm is open July through early October. Flowers are $20 per bucket, and you take the bucket home with you—bring it back for $15 buckets all season long. The fields are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

Brittany Hollow Farm
7141 Albany Post Rd.
Rhinebeck, NY
Online: brittanyhollowfarmflowers.strikingly.com

For "Gazillions" of Flowers, Veggies & A Winery: Terhune Orchards

A major player in the "you pick" scene, Terhune Orchards offers the chance to pick something throughout the growing season.  They offer a great selection of flowers here, available from late June to October. Planters and culinary herbs are also available on site, as are numerous other fruits and veggies—both in the fields for picking and the farm store for purchase. Terhune also operates its own winery. FYI: Leave your pets with a friend—they aren’t allowed on the farm. 

Terhune Orchards
330 Cold Soil Rd.
Princeton, NJ
609-924-2310
Online: terhuneorchards.com

For Gorgeous Blooms for the First Time: Spring Wind Farm

The stunning blooms are grown sustainably, and flowers for picking include sunflowers, zinnias, cosmos, celosia, gomphrena and more. Pick for a mason jar or a three-gallon bucket; prices start at $16. 

95 Holmes Mill Rd. 
Cream Ridge, NJ
Online: springwindfarm.com

For Super Sunflowers & Farm Fun: Johnson's Corner Farm

Johnson's Corner Farm loves its sunflowers. (The farm even holds Sunflower Celebrations.) In addition to lots of barnyard fun and picking produce, you can pick sunflowers for $1 a stem here, and zinnias for 25 cents each. Entrance to the field is $5/person on weekdays, and $6/person on weekends; buy tickets online to guarantee admission. 

133 Church Rd. 
Medford, NJ
Online: johnsonsfarm.com

For Lavender Lovers: Lavender By the Bay

To be fair, you can't pick the lavender at Lavender By the Bay, but it's a must for fans of this soothing herb, and peak bloom for French lavender is happening now, and more to come late summer! Plus: you can load up on sachets and sprigs in the gift shop. This farm has two locations on Long Island, growing more than 80,000 plants in hues of purple, lilac, white and beyond. (FYI: The Calverton spot is across the street from water park Splish Splash.) It's $12 to enter the field and stroll in the fragrant fields. Tickets must be purchased beforehand. 

Open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

7540 Main Rd.
East Marion, NY

47 Manor Rd.
Calverton, NY 

Online: lavenderbythebay.com

For a Butterfly Moment: Melick's Town Farm

You can pick apples and peaches at Melick’s, but from July through September its stunning gardens are open for picking as well. You'll find flowers such as zinnias, sunflowers and snapdragons here, and no appointment is necessary, but they do ask that you bring your own clippers. (They advise calling ahead to find out what is blooming before you head over.) The farm charges per stem and also has pre-picked bouquets and arrangements if you need to grab a bouquet on the go. Melick's Town Farm is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6.pm., and on a nice day, butterflies flock to the gardens, making for nice Instagram fodder.

Melick’s Town Farm
170 Oldwick Rd.
Oldwick, NJ
Online: melickstownfarm.com

For Flowers, Berries & a Side of Fresh Ice Cream: Patty’s Berries and Bunches

If you’re looking to ditch the scissors, but pick up some berries, this is the place to go. Patty's "bunches" are flowers, which are sold pre-picked and include blossoms such as sunflowers, dahlias, peonies, and zinnias. You can also pay $8 to walk through the flower fields for the perfect photo op!  The farm features an "Ice Cream Patch,” where visitors can buy scoops of seasonal flavors which are made with fresh ingredients grown on-site. This 40-acre Long Island farm is one of our favorites for U-pick berries. Open daily, 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

410 Sound Ave.
Mattituck, NY
Online: pattysberriesandbunches.com

For Evergreen & Sunflower Mazes & Lots of Produce to Pick: Alstede Farms

Alstede is a popular place for picking many, many things. Not only can you pick your own flowers at Alstede Farms, they've also added a cute evergreen maze, which is included with admission. Picking season runs mid-July through September, and flowers go for $1 a stem. The farm is packed with beautiful sunflowers ready for picking, and the farm’s annual sunflower maze is also open for navigation. This farm is also one of our favorites for “U-pick” fruits & veggies as well. Sweet Corn, vegetables (peppers, eggplant, tomatoes), peaches, cantaloupe, nectarines, honeydew and canary melon are all in season during the “cut your own flower” season, so you can pick up some "Jersey Fresh" produce while you're at it. Check this page to see if flowers are open for picking. 

1 Alstede Farms Ln.
Chester, NJ
Online: alstedefarms.com

 

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25 Last-Minute Outdoor Summer Adventures

by Katrina Emery

The final stretch of summer is here. With school starting everywhere, you’ve got to squeeze the most adventure you can out of the final days of the season. Get the whole family outside to hike, bike, swim, explore, and discover. From across the state to your own backyard, we’ve rounded up the best ideas to get you outside and dirty. Read on for more!

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1:  Backyard Games: Try out these epic backyard (or park) games like ninja attack, Simon Says, or giant pick up sticks.

2:  Cool Hikes for Hot Days: Hit the trail with these great hikes for kids featuring waterfalls, playgrounds, garter snakes, and more.

3:  Get out on Bikes: Hit the trail with these great hikes for kids featuring waterfalls, playgrounds, garter snakes, and more. 

4:  Grill up a Feast: From grilled fruit to grilled pizza, there's so many ways to use up summer's bounty! Check out this list of 22 new recipes to try.

5:  Experience Island Life: Beaches, a lighthouse, farm-fresh fruit, and more: enjoy it all at nearby Sauvie Island!

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6:  Explore Black History in Portland: Take yourselves on an educational tour to explore the movers and shakers of Portland's early Black community, like DeNorval Unthank, a prominent doctor and community leader whose name graces a North Portland park today.

7:  Host and Outdoor Movie Night: The weather is warm, the kids are restless. Mix up the weekend with an outdoor movie night! Find tips for a fantastic movie night here.

8:  Go Flower Picking: Catch the last of the summer blooms at these area flower farms!

9: Try out Geocaching & Find Treasure: Join the millions of folks worldwide who love geocaching-- it's like a real-life treasure hunt! Read up on these tips to make the best of your first (or 100th!) geocaching outing.

10 Escape to Eugene: Head out for a day trip or an overnight stay to our next door neighbor, Eugene! From raptors to markets to great eats, there's fun for everyone. Read up here on the best things to see in Eugene.

Tim Mossholder via Unsplash

11:  Dive into a Swimming Hole: Let's face it: it's hot. Stop melting and cool off at some of these favorite local swim holes. From lakes to waterfall pools to rivers, there's a swim spot for everyone.

12:  Go Fishing: Find a local fishing fish hole and reel 'em in! Or just teach the kids how to enjoy the wind in their face, depending on your skill level.

13: Print Your Own Scavenger Hunt: Create your own scavenger hunt with these great printables! If your kids need an extra push to take that walk outside, motivate them with these fun hunts!

14:  Swing from Trees with Aerial Adventures: Get an extra thrill before school by taking the kids to one of these fun aerial adventure courses! Swing from trees, fly down the zipline, and challenge any fears of heights.

15:  Build a Sandcastle: Build a castle, dig a hole, or splash in the water at some of the best sandy river spots around town.

Harrison via pixels

16: Visit a National Park: Check out some of the most stunning vistas around at these nearby National Parks and Monuments. Some are closer than you think!

17: Watch the Sunset: Pack a picnic and watch the sun set at some of these favorite spots around town.

18: Create a Backyard Waterpark: Create an epic backyard waterpark with these hints and tips!

19: Camp on the Beach: Grab your tent and head to the coast to one of these great beach spots to camp!

20: Discover a Waterfall: Sure, you know Multnomah Falls, but have you been to these other gems? Find your new favorite falls with these family-friendly trails.

Tom Woodward

21: Great Destination Playgrounds: Don't just see any old playground--make it a destination! From climbing to nature play to Frisbee golf, these playgrounds make a dull day turn around.

22: Escape to Seaside: Seals, skating, saltwater taffy. Do you need more of an excuse to hit the road for Seaside?

23: Find a Spot to Pitch a Tent: These six nearby campsites are some of the best close-by spots to pitch a summer tent!

24: Go Miniature Golfing: Fore! Take the family to one of these miniature golfing spots for an epic par 3 battle.

25: Go Splash!: Find a close-to-home adventure with these splashy destinations, perfect for even the littlest of explorers.

—Katrina Emery

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5 U-Pick Flower Farms Near PDX

by Annette Benedetti

Filling your house with flowers doesn’t have to mean hitting the local grocery store or stealing perfect petals from the neighbor’s garden. You and your young gardeners can spend the summer days tiptoeing through dahlias, sunflowers and lavender, and picking gorgeous bouquets to decorate your home. Local U-pick flower farms offer families a dreamy way to spend time together. Read on to find out more.

Sunblossom Farm

You don't have to leave the city to enjoy a U-Pick experience. Located in the NE Cully Neighborhood of Portland, Sunblossom Farm is a sustainable, urban, bee friendly micro farm. Their flower gardens are cared for without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers and are grown in an urban setting designed to help support and provide a sanctuary for today’s struggling bee population. This unique farm is dedicated to providing local, seasonal, and sustainably raised flowers. Your young florists will find sunflowers, roses and more at this awesome spot. Drop-in cost is $20/per bucket. They provide everything you need to pick flowers, but ask that you bring your own container to take flowers home in.

Open Wed 6 p.m.-sunset, Sat 9 a.m.-1p.m.
NE 50th ave, between Ainsworth and Holman
503-498-8638
Online: sunblossomfarm.com

Helvetia Lavender Farm

This Hillsboro favorite for Christmas trees goes purple in the summer with two varieties of lavender: English and Lavandin. Drop into the tea pavilion for a lunch of homemade quiche, salad and scones or just the tea and scones for $10. Check out the lavender festival on the first and second weekend in July where you can watch lavender wreath demonstrations, visits a kids' station and shop all things lavender! If you just want to pick some lavender to scent things at home, for $8 a bundle, the owners will give you a pair of scissors and a bucket and you spend your day wandering rows of flowers and picking some to take home. Note: U-Pick only takes place on weekends throughout July.

12814 NW Bishop Rd.
Hillsboro
503-647-5858
Online: helvetialavenderfarm.com

Justy's Produce and Flowers

Dahlia fans, rejoice! Justy's has your favorites, ready to be picked. Since you're heading there, their produce market has it all from A to Z. From apples to zucchini and artichokes to zinnias, they aim to offer everything you need so your flower-picking and produce-shopping is done in one all-organic trip.

Looking for variety? This flower farm also carries a variety of flowers you can purchase and take some home. There are wildcats, show and tells and more. Filling your house with color is easy after a trip to this farm.

7924 SE Lake Rd.
Milwaukie
503-659-4169
Online: justysproduce.com

Mountainside Lavender 
Mountainside Lavender is a small family-run farm nestled in the hillside of Chehalem Mountain in the community of Scholls, Oregon. They offer over 2000 lavender plants representing more than 20 varieties of both French and English lavenders in several colors (white, pink and shades of purple). This gorgeous flower farm grows both Lavandins (a cross between Lavandula angusifolia and Lavandula latifolia) and  French Lavender which is characterized by longer stems and high oil yields. In addition to U-pick, visitors can also purchase farm-made lavender products such as massage oil, sachets, neck and eye pillows, dried flowers, lip balm, and more all derived from the farm's plants.

Mountainside Lavender is now open for U-pick. Your family can pick your own bouquet for $6/bundle (approximately what you can fit your hand around, fingertip to fingertip), or 5 bouquets for $24. All u-pick supplies will be provided for you, but you’re welcome to bring your own clippers and basket! They are open daily through the end of July from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

17805 SW Hillsboro Hwy
Hillsboro
503-6443465
Online: mountainsidelavender.com

The Pumpkin Patch
This Sauvie Island pumpkin patch has so much more to offer before the fall. They provide your flower-cutting supplies and their flowers are priced at $5-10 per bouquet or $12 per bucket. Give them a call in August to find out what's blooming and save some time to shop the produce market and gift shop for... well, everything else you could possibly need.

16511 NW Gillihan Rd.
Sauvie Island
503-621-3874
Online: thepumpkinpatch.com

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