Tampa, Florida has plenty of fun things to do in the fall, but pumpkin picking is always a favorite because it’s so affordable and accessible to everyone in the family. Here’s a list of pumpkin farms within an hour’s drive of downtown Tampa that are perfect for picking pumpkins, visiting the animals on the farm, going on hayrides, enjoying some hot cider, and more!
Best Time for Pumpkin Picking
Fall is a great time to get out and enjoy the cooler weather, the changing leaves, and the festive atmosphere of Autumn, from the end of September until right around Thanksgiving, after which we all start preparing and decorating for the winter holidays. Although pumpkin picking may not be something you can do year-round, it is a seasonal activity that can be enjoyed when it’s most appropriate. Here are some things you might enjoy during Fall as well as some tips for finding your own pumpkin patch to visit.
Pumpkin Varieties and Patterns
Pumpkins are one of the only specifically autumnal produce that we can enjoy in Florida. There are many varieties of pumpkins and patterns on them, which can make it a bit difficult to choose. The following is a list of things to look for when deciding which pumpkin is right for you:
Pattern
Some pumpkins have an intricate pattern carved into the pumpkin, while others might not have any pattern whatsoever. Do you want something that’s been intricately carved? Do you prefer a more natural look?
Size
The size of your pumpkin will depend on how much food you’re planning on making and how many people will be there to eat it.
Color/Shape
These two factors are what determine whether or not you’ll find the perfect pumpkin for you. How about orange ones with elongated shapes? White ones with round shapes?
Cost
We all know that price matters. However, a good pumpkin doesn’t have to be expensive!
Which type do I prefer? Everyone has their own personal preferences, so it’s important to know what kind of taste they like before choosing their pumpkin. Is someone allergic to nuts but likes chocolate? Find out by asking questions!
As soon as fall arrives and Thanksgiving nears, most grocery stores start stocking up on all sorts of goods–especially pumpkins!
Where to Pick Pumpkins
Tampa is a great place to go pumpkin picking! Raprager Farms, Gallagher’s Pumpkins & Christmas Trees, Sweetfield Farms, Fox Squirrel Corn Maze, and Hunsader Farms are some of the best places. Raprager Farms is open every day until Thanksgiving and has a hay maze that kids can play on. Gallagher’s Pumpkins & Christmas Trees have pumpkin pies for sale with toppings like whipped cream or cinnamon sugar. They also offer hayrides around their property. Sweetfield Farms offers face painting and hay slides for children as well as a corn maze. Fox Squirrel Corn Maze offers three mazes throughout their property with varying difficulty levels and Hunsader Farms has an assortment of activities from pumpkin picking to hay bale racing to games for children.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on which experiences you’ll be taking part in during your visit. Here is a general breakdown of cost at farms near Tampa.
- Raprager Farms- $16.95
- Gallagher’s Pumpkins- Up to $25
- Sweetfield Farms- $10.75
- Fox Squirrel Corn Maze- $11, kids 2 and under- free
- Hunsader Farms- $15, kids 10 and under- free