As the crisp air of fall settles in and the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, there’s one tradition I look forward to every year—pumpkin picking. In Ontario, we’re blessed with a bounty of farms offering not just pumpkins, but the full autumn experience. As a local, I’ve explored a number of pumpkin patches, and I’m excited to share my favorite spots with you.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin to carve, take a family photo, or sip on some fresh apple cider, these pumpkin patches around Ontario have something special for everyone.

1. Downey’s Farm – Caledon

A family favorite for many in the Greater Toronto Area, Downey’s Farm is the epitome of fall fun. Located just an hour from downtown Toronto, this farm boasts a huge pumpkin patch with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. It’s a great spot for kids, thanks to their Harvest Festival that features everything from corn mazes to wagon rides. Don’t miss the bakery’s famous pumpkin donuts—trust me, you’ll want more than one!

Highlights:

• Pumpkin donuts

• Corn maze

• Family-friendly activities

2. Pingle’s Farm Market – Hampton

If you’re in the Durham Region, Pingle’s Farm Market is a must-visit for your pumpkin-picking needs. Known for its sprawling fields, Pingle’s offers a true farm experience. Their pumpkin patch is vast, and you can take a tractor ride right to the fields. In addition to picking pumpkins, Pingle’s has an incredible corn maze, apple picking, and a market full of fresh local produce and baked goods. It’s an ideal spot for a fall day out with the family or friends.

Highlights:

• Tractor rides to the pumpkin patch

• Market with local goods

• Corn maze and sunflower fields

3. Andrew’s Scenic Acres – Milton

Nestled in the rolling hills of Milton, Andrew’s Scenic Acres offers breathtaking views and a peaceful escape from the city. This farm is more than just pumpkins—you can pick a variety of fall fruits and flowers, including apples, raspberries, and sunflowers. What makes Andrew’s unique is their on-site winery, where you can sip on fruit wines made from the produce grown right on the farm. Combine your pumpkin picking with some wine tasting, and you’ve got the perfect autumn day.

Highlights:

• U-pick fruits and flowers

• Scenic views and peaceful atmosphere

• On-site winery

4. Hanes Corn Maze and Tiny Shop Bakery – Dundas

For those near Hamilton, Hanes Corn Maze and Tiny Shop Bakery is a hidden gem. This farm isn’t just about pumpkins—they’ve got one of the most challenging corn mazes in Ontario! After navigating the maze, you can head over to the pumpkin patch to find your perfect gourd. The on-site bakery is a highlight as well, offering homemade pies, butter tarts, and of course, pumpkin-flavored treats.

Highlights:

• Challenging corn maze

• Cozy, homemade baked goods

• Relaxed, country atmosphere

5. Pumpkinferno – Upper Canada Village, Morrisburg

If you’re looking for a pumpkin experience with a bit of a twist, Pumpkinferno at Upper Canada Village is a must-see. While this isn’t a place to pick pumpkins, it’s worth mentioning because of its incredible display of over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins lit up in stunning arrangements. Located along the St. Lawrence River, Pumpkinferno is a magical way to enjoy the beauty of fall at night. It’s perfect for a family outing or a romantic fall evening.

Highlights:

• Spectacular pumpkin displays

• Historic setting at Upper Canada Village

• Nighttime event with a festive atmosphere

6. Applewood Farm and Winery – Stouffville

Another top pick close to Toronto is Applewood Farm and Winery. Not only can you pick pumpkins here, but they offer apple picking and wine tasting too. The farm has a relaxed, friendly vibe, making it perfect for a laid-back weekend visit. There’s something uniquely satisfying about walking through their patch, choosing your own pumpkins, and then heading over to their winery for a tasting session of their house-made fruit wines.

Highlights:

• Pumpkin and apple picking

• Family-owned winery

• Relaxed atmosphere

7. Forsythe Family Farms – Uxbridge

For a quieter, more intimate pumpkin-picking experience, Forsythe Family Farms is a hidden treasure in Uxbridge. This farm prides itself on its educational and family-friendly activities, with a focus on connecting visitors to the land. You can enjoy tractor rides, farm animals, and a small but charming pumpkin patch. The staff are incredibly welcoming, and there’s a great sense of community here.

Highlights:

• Small, family-owned farm

• Educational activities for kids

• Farm animals and tractor rides

A Few Tips for Your Pumpkin Picking Adventure:

• Dress warmly: Fall weather in Ontario can be unpredictable. Layer up and bring some boots because pumpkin patches can get muddy!

• Bring cash: Many farms, especially smaller ones, may not accept cards, so it’s always good to have some cash on hand for your pumpkins or those irresistible treats.

• Check for events: Many farms host special fall events like harvest festivals or Halloween activities. Check their websites or social media pages for updates.

No matter where you go in Ontario, you’ll find a pumpkin patch that offers more than just pumpkins—it’s about creating memories, savoring the season, and enjoying the best of fall. Happy pumpkin picking!

Always verify information on the locations official website!