Best Pumpkin Patches Near Sarasota

SARASOTA, FL — Autumn in the Sarasota area is often filled with fun family traditions: that first sip of hot apple cider, cool nights around a bonfire and the annual excursion to a nearby pumpkin patch or field to find the best pumpkin.

Early October can be a great time to pick up pumpkins before the October rush. Plus, many pumpkin patches offer free hayrides, corn mazes and games for kids.

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 fields near Sarasota to visit in 2021:

• Fruitville Grove, 7410 Fruitville Road in Sarasota, hosts its 33rd annual Pumpkin Festival with a pumpkin patch and other fall activities.
• Hunsader Farms, 5500 C.R. 675 in Bradenton, hosts its 30th annual Pumpkin Festival Oct. 16-17, 23-24 and 30-31, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $12 per person and $5 to park. Children 10 and younger are free. The festival includes a pumpkin patch, craft show, live music and shows, hayrides, pony rides, a corn maze, a pioneer trades village, a petting zoo and more.
• Pumpkin Patch Express, 12210 83rd Street in East Parrish, is a popular trip from the Florida Railroad Museum takes you to a patch of pumpkins. Children are invited to pick their own pumpkin to take home. Everyone is also invited to participate in the hayride. Lincoln log building, crafts and other activities offered at no additional charge. Coach seating is $19 for adults and $15 for children. First-class, excursion and group seating is also available.