Best Pumpkin Patches in Central Florida for Families
When October rolls around, Central Florida suddenly feels a little cozier. The air gets crisp (well, Florida-crisp), the coffee turns pumpkin-spiced, and weekends are made for hayrides, sunflowers, and photo ops surrounded by bright orange pumpkins.
If you’re wondering which pumpkin patch to visit this fall, we’ve got you covered! We visited four of Central Florida’s most talked-about fall spots — Southern Hill Farms, Painted Oaks Academy, Great Scott Farms, and Amber Brooke Farms. Here’s what to know before you go.
Southern Hill Farms — The Fall Festival Everyone Talks About
Location: Clermont, FL
Best for: All-day fun, family photos, and every fall activity you can imagine.
Southern Hill Farms turns into a full-on fall wonderland from late September through early November. Think pumpkins piled high in a barn, wagon rides through the fields, live music, and endless food trucks.
You’ll also find sunflower and zinnia fields for picking, a five-acre corn maze, and a rooftop deck with a view that’s perfect for sunset photos. There’s a Fun Zone for the kids (with slides and bounce houses), and plenty of seasonal treats, like apple cider donuts that people line up for.
It’s popular, so expect crowds, especially on weekends. But if you’re looking for a full festival experience that feels like fall in every direction, this is the spot.
Painted Oaks Academy — Rustic Charm in the City
Location: Orlando, FL
Best for: A laid-back day with a local, ranch-style vibe.
Painted Oaks Academy sits just outside the busy parts of Orlando, yet it feels like you’ve stepped into the countryside. The working horse ranch turns into a pumpkin patch every October, complete with pony rides, hayrides, and a corn maze.
It’s smaller than the big farms, but that’s part of the charm. You can walk around, enjoy live entertainment, and pick your pumpkin (priced by weight) without feeling rushed.
If you love the idea of a cozy, no-frills pumpkin day that’s close to home, this one’s worth checking out.
Amber Brooke Farms — Picture-Perfect Fall Feels
Location: Eustis, FL
Best for: Relaxed vibes, beautiful photo ops, and scenic sunflower views.
Amber Brooke Farms feels like a Hallmark movie in real life. The setting is peaceful, the fields are full of color, and the pumpkin barn makes every photo feel instantly Instagram-worthy.
There’s a corn maze, play areas, live music, and food trucks, but it’s all done at a slower, more relaxed pace. This is the kind of place where you grab a pumpkin, walk the flower fields, and just enjoy being outside.
It’s less crowded and feels a bit more intimate than the bigger festivals, which makes it perfect for couples, friends, or families who want a calmer fall day.
Great Scott Farms — The Ultimate Fall Adventure
Location: Mount Dora, FL
Best for: Classic corn maze fun and family-friendly activities.
This one feels like the “everything” pumpkin patch. The 7-acre corn maze is the main event, but there’s also a giant jumping pillow, zip line for kids, playgrounds, slides, and hayrides.
The farm’s market and café serve up local favorites and fall treats, and there’s even gem mining for kids who love to dig and discover. With so much to do, it’s easy to spend the whole day here.
Weekends can get lively, but if you go early or midweek, you’ll beat most of the crowds. It’s a little drive north of Orlando, but worth it for the experience.
Bonus Spots Worth the Drive
If you’re up for a little road trip, there are a few unique pumpkin patches that stand out. Sykes Family Farms (Elkton) is known for its “agriventure” experiences, with corn mazes, animals, and hands-on farm fun. Over in Eustis, Santa’s Farm offers a Fall Festival before transitioning into its Christmas tree season, complete with hayrides, a petting zoo, and rows of bright orange pumpkins. These spots bring something extra to the table and are worth the drive if you want a full fall day trip.
Tips for a Smooth Pumpkin Patch Day
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Check schedules early. Many farms require tickets or reservations, especially on weekends.
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Arrive early for the best pumpkins. Prime sizes and shapes tend to go fast.
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Bring the basics. Sunscreen, water, and closed-toe shoes are a must in Florida heat.
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Know how pumpkins are priced. Some patches charge by the pound, so little ones picking big pumpkins can add up fast.
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Wait to carve. In Florida humidity, carved pumpkins can rot quickly—hold off until closer to Halloween.
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Support local causes. Many church patches give proceeds back to their communities, making your pumpkin purchase even more meaningful.
No matter which pumpkin patch you pick, you’ll find that little spark of fall magic waiting for you, even in sunny Central Florida. Grab your favorite flannel, a pumpkin-spiced treat, and a camera… because fall fun is just a short drive away!
Get Your Pumpkin, Then Join the Contest!
No matter which patch you choose, Central Florida has no shortage of places to celebrate fall. From sprawling farms to neighborhood churches, every pumpkin patch offers a chance to make family memories—and maybe even pick the perfect pumpkin for our Pumpkin Carving Contest.
Carved, painted, decorated, or sculpted—however your family creates their masterpiece, we want to see it! Grab your pumpkin, get creative, and join the fun before the contest ends on October 31, 2025 at midnight. 🎃✨