Ready For Some Fall Fun? Check Out The Best Pumpkin Patches Close To Sarasota

SARASOTA, FL — If you’re ready to leave summer behind and embrace all the good things fall has to offer, why not start with a fun-filled family excursion to the biggest pumpkin patch or field near Sarasota?

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

Visiting an outdoor pumpkin field is moderately safe, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Before you go, it’s best to call ahead to the field or check its website for guidelines and hours of operation.

Here are some of the top pumpkin farms 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.