It’s a fall activity the kids can’t refuse: A day at the pumpkin patch.
Did you know there are plenty around the Grand Strand, too? Fall hits a little differently here, but it’s still fall. And there are Instagram-worthy photos waiting for the taking, too.
Here are the spots around the area to visit on your autumn getaway.
How to Pick the Perfect Pumpkin
You have to get your hands dirty and handle a lot of pumpkins to find the one. Here are tips from seasoned professionals.
It has to be solid. Soft spots and sunken places indicate decay. A stable pumpkin lasts longer in your autumn arrangements.
It should be dark orange. It’s not an official crayon color, but “pumpkin-carving orange” is a thing. Look for it.
It should be smooth. Fewer bumps make it easier to draw on and safer to carve. A pumpkin heavy for its size might have thick walls that are difficult to cut through.
Let’s Go to the Pumpkin Patch
A gorgeous pumpkin in all its glory is what fall is all about. Here’s where to get yours in the area.
Barefoot Landing Pumpkin Patch & Hayrides
This patch has a lot more fun than gourd-hunting going on.
The scoop: It’s open Fridays and Saturdays in October in Dockside Village. Admission is free; pumpkins are $3-$15, cash only. Some earnings will benefit local hurricane and flood relief.
PRO TIP: Buy an all-day wristband for admission to a Jack-o-lantern inflatable. You can also go on a hayride for $2.
Indigo Farms
Get your pumpkins, imported from Calabash.
The scoop: Commit yourself to discover the exemplary pumpkin by driving a little. It’s open Saturdays in October, and admission is free. Enjoy various weekly activities, including a hay maze, hayrides, and pig races.
PRO TIP: Let the children play a little in the corral. This site goes back to six generations of living on the farmland.
Thompson Farm & Nursery
This farm brings it all to the table this time of year.
The scoop: Up the road in Conway, steer toward a patch and a 6-acre corn maze, open weekends beginning on Oct. 6. Admission: $15.50 for adults, $13.50 for kids ages 3-12. Kids 2 and younger get in for free.
PRO TIP: Admission includes a tricycle track, giant leap pad, duck races, horse swings, and more. So linger for an afternoon of fun!
For Exemplary Attention to Detail, Choose Paradise Resort
This property has a nose for outstanding hospitality. Find out why families have spent generations returning to Paradise Resort. You’ll find comfortable beds in clean rooms, convenient to the beach.
