Pumpkin-Picking Patches Around East Haven

EAST HAVEN, CT — October is coming to an end soon, but there is still time to stroll around a pumpkin patch or field and pick the best pumpkin for a jack-o’-lantern.

Many East Haven families enjoy an annual trip to the pumpkin patch. Fields often have free activities such as corn mazes, hayrides and apple cider tastings.

It’s best to call ahead to the field or check its website for coronavirus-related guidelines and hours of operation.

Here are some of the top pumpkin patches in the East Haven area to visit in 2021:

• Shoreline Trolley Museum in East Haven. Its pumpkin patch is open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays from Oct. 2 through Oct. 31. Admission includes a trolley ride, grounds visit, one pumpkin and puzzle book for each child. Note that Per Covid-19 guidelines, all visitors, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear face coverings while on riding on the trolley. Located at 17 River St., in East Haven, call 203-467-6927 for more information and purchase tickets visit the website here.

• Bishop's Orchards - The Little Red Barn and Pumpkin Patch in Guilford is open now through Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends. Admission is free. Fall Family Fun is here at the Bishop's Orchards Little Red Barn, so come to our Pumpkin Patch. Inside the Little Red Barn you will find fall seasonal decorations as well as perishable items. Due to COVID-19, our Fall into Fun Kid's Activities are limited to just the Apple Train. Cost is $2/person (tax included) and the train runs on weekends and holidays only. 1355 Boston Post Road, Guilford. 203-453-3328.
• Strawberry Hollow Farm in Guilford is described as a hidden gem. And the place for a "once in a lifetime pumpkin." Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located at 2171 Boston Post Road, Guilford. 203-458-3579.

• Rose Orchards Farm At the farm, pick-your-own hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, during the fruit or vegetables' season. Pumpkins through the end of the month. Located one mile from exit 55 off of I-95. 33 Branford Road, North Branford. (203) 488-7996.