Where To Find The Best Pumpkin Patches In Sarasota

SARASOTA, FL — 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.

An annual trip to a Sarasota pumpkin patch is a fall pastime for many families. 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 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.