As soon as there is a hint of crisp in the air, it’s time to break out the pumpkins! Head to one of many pumpkin patches around Des Moines. Not only for great selection but many have all the fun fall activities to boot. Enjoy one of the most beloved family fall traditions and spend the day at the pumpkin patch.
Want to pick apples? Check out our guide to where to pick apples, here.
We work hard to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information before heading to an event or activity, since it may change.
Pumpkin Patches in Des Moines and Central Iowa
Berry Patch Farm
Where: 62785 280th Street, Nevada
When: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Admission: Free
Features:
- U-pick pumpkins, apples, and raspberries
- Baked goods
Center Grove Orchard
Where: 32835 610th Avenue, Cambridge
Where: Every day 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission: starting at $16.95
Features:
- Hayrides
- Train rides
- Jumping pillows
- Corn maze
- Pumpkins and apples
- And much more!
RELATED CONTENT: What to Expect at Center Grove Orchard
Howell’s Pumpkin Patch
Where: 3145 Howell Court, Cumming
When: September 8 – October 31 open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: $15 and up for ages 2+
Features:
- Old-fashioned wagon ride
- Pumpkin patch
- Corn maze
- Corn Indy pedal go-carts
- Pony rides
- Kiddy Korral with friendly farm animals
- Duck races
- Bonfires
- Cafe and gift shop with homemade goodies
RELATED CONTENT: What to Expect at Howell’s Pumpkin Patch
Iowa Orchard
Where: 9875 Meredith Drive, Urbandale
Pumpkin patch open: Tuesday – Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. late September through Halloween
Family Fun Zone on weekends from mid-September through October weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: $5/person; no charge for ages 2 and under
Farm Fun Zone includes:
- Hay bale slide
- Corn box
- Tire obstacle course
- Face painting
- Badminton
- Horseshoe toss
Pumpkinville & Cornmaze
Where: 618 Center Ave S, Mitchellville
When: Daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission: Free
Features:
- Straw train
- Tug-a-pumpkin
- Corn granary
- Straw jump
- Big and mini corn maze (there is a fee to do the mazes)
Storybook Orchard
Where: 12832 Royal Orchard Dr., Story City
When: Daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Features:
- U-pick pumpkins starting in October
Upstream Gardens & Orchard
When: 5987 NE 88th Street, Altoona
Where: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: Free
Features:
- Natural growing practices
- Pumpkins
- U-pick apples and already picked
- Raspberries
- Pumpkin patch, pick in the field
- Pumpkin patch – already gathered from the field
- Honey from hives on the farm
- Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises)
Wills Family Orchard
Where: 33130 Panther Creek Road, Adel
When: Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
2023 Apple & Pumpkin Fest Weekends – Saturdays 9 am – 6 pm; Sundays Noon – 6 pm., starting September 16 thru October 22.
Admission: $7 and up for ages 2+
Features:
- U-pick pumpkins
- Corn maze
- Wagon rides
- Barnyard
- Apple picking
- A shop full of delicious treats
Find more ideas for family-friendly fall activities around Des Moines.
