The Ultimate Guide to Pumpkin Patches

The Ultimate Guide to Pumpkin Patches in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest

22/09/2020

Pumpkin patches are a time-honoured autumn tradition loved by people all over the world. This year, when so many things have been postponed or canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that tradition is more welcome than ever. Every member of the family can enjoy a pumpkin patch visit, and it’s a perfect activity for enjoying the mild fall weather and gorgeous scenery while safely physical distancing.

With dozens of pumpkin patches located near Coast Hotels properties in Canada and the Pacific Northwest, you can plan a family-focused weekend trip or a longer holiday around this festive fall tradition. All you need are your favourite pair of boots and your coziest hat or scarf! Please note: all information is current at the time of this writing, but things can change rapidly due to COVID-19. Visitors are strongly encouraged to call the pumpkin farms directly to confirm hours and admission policies.

Indoor pumpkin patch

Vancouver metro, BC

October in Vancouver is perhaps the best month of the year. The leaves are vibrant shades of orange and yellow and summer’s heat is long gone, but the chill of winter hasn’t yet arrived. Average daily temperatures are around 14 degrees Celsius, ideal for a day spent at local pumpkin patches in Vancouver.

  • Southlands Heritage Farm - This locally-owned farm in the heart of Vancouver lets guests get up close and personal with farm animals in addition to picking pumpkins from the Old Apple Orchard. A $6 donation gets you admission and a pumpkin, and guests are required to book an appointment.
  • Richmond Country Farms Market - It’s no wonder this working farm is considered one of the best pumpkin patches in Vancouver. Visitors are treated to a lively scene with costumed characters, live music, and wagon rides. Admission includes one pumpkin, a visit to the animal farm, and a locally-grown Spartan apple to snack on.
  • Hazelmere Pumpkin Patch - Hazelmere will open for its 20th pumpkin patch season on September 26th. $7.50 cash-only admission includes a petting zoo, children’s play area, mini corn maze, and a hayride. Pumpkins are sold separately. Saturday, October 3, the farm will host its sixth annual pumpkin carving contest with face painting and additional activities.
  • Willow View Farms - This u-pick farm offers 20+ varieties of apples, pears, and plums, plus more than 50 pumpkin varieties, including decorative, eating, and giants. COVID-19 restrictions have restricted some attractions, but the farm remains open for the season Tuesdays through Saturdays.

family walking through pumpkin patch

Where to stay

Vancouver Island, BC

Mild temperatures and almost no rainfall in autumn make Vancouver Island an ideal pumpkin picking destination. Fall is “shoulder season,” sandwiched between busy summer beach holidays and winter ski trips, so it’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fewer crowds.

  • Nanaimo – McNab’s Corn Maze & Produce Farm. As the name implies, the star of the show is the 7-acre corn maze, but the tremendous pumpkin patch with 40+ varieties and hayrides aren’t far behind. The corn maze opens on September 4th and will remain open through Halloween, when the season winds down with a charity bonfire and fireworks.

young girl picking her pumpkin

Where to stay

  • The Coast Bastion Hotel provides ocean views and puts you near the ferry within walking distance of several dining and boutique shopping options.

Victoria

  • Michell’s Farm Market – This six-generation family farm has been growing upwards of 50 fruit and vegetable varieties each year since 1862. Visit the u-pick pumpkin patch and stop by the farm market for baked goods, honey, pasture-raised beef, and more.
  • Sea Bluff Farm – The focus at Sea Bluff is on the more than 40 varieties of certified organic produce, all lovingly grown and sold at the farm stand. The pumpkins are no different and when you visit to pick one, you’ll also get a tour of the winter crops and you’ll get to pick some fresh carrots.

pumpkin patch

Where to stay

Washington state

Autumn is synonymous with apples, and Washington is an apple hub. In fact, Wenatchee Valley’s nickname is the “Apple Capital of the World.” Couple that with Seattle’s stunning coastline and the surrounding majestic mountain peaks, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect fall weekend. Please be aware that recent wildfires have devastated many areas around the state. We urge anyone looking to travel throughout the Pacific Northwest to ensure safe travel is still possible before departing.

  • Wenatchee – Annie’s Fun Farm - This 14-acre farm sits directly in the middle of several housing developments, making the pumpkin picking here incredibly accessible. Families will enjoy the corn maze, petting zoo, bounce house, apple slingshots, and many types of fresh produce.

Where to stay

  • The Coast Wenatchee Center Hotel offers Columbia River or mountain views, an indoor/outdoor pool, plus a can’t be-beat downtown location.

Corn maze fork in the road

Seattle metro

  • Jubilee Farm – The annual Harvest Festival is confirmed for this year, though details are still being ironed out. Visitors can expect free admission and hayrides to the pumpkin patch, as well as plenty of apple cider to go around.
  • Stocker Farms – With more than 30 attractions, Stocker Farms’ Fall Festival may be the best pumpkin patch near Seattle. Visit the 10-acre u-pick pumpkin patch, corn maze, duck races, hayrides, and more.
  • Bailey Family Farm – This fifth-generation farm has been offering tasty u-pick produce for more than 30 years. Choose from 75+ pumpkin varieties and enjoy wagon rides and the Pumpkin Barn, with rope swings, tractors for the kids.

Where to stay

  • Bellevue’s chic Hotel 116 offers a location that’s close to dining and shopping, plus it’s just off the freeway, providing easy access to Seattle and the surrounding communities. If you’re looking to enjoy the scenic Palouse region, the Coast Hilltop Inn offers exception views and iconic Coast Hotels service. Located in Pullman, WA you will be nearby nature trails, Washington State University®, Western Idaho and downtown Pullman.