As a Des Moines real estate agent who has lived in this area my whole life, I can say with certainty that fall is one of the most magical times of the year around here.
The crisp autumn air, the vibrant changing leaves, and the abundance of fun, family-friendly activities make this season an absolute delight. And at the top of my list of must-visit fall destinations are the incredible pumpkin patches sprinkled throughout central Iowa.
Whether you're a lifelong Iowan or a newcomer to the Des Moines area, I encourage you to gather your loved ones and set out on a pumpkin patch adventure. Not only is it a wonderful way to embrace the spirit of the season, but it also provides the perfect opportunity to explore some of the most charming rural communities surrounding our city.
Let me tell you about a few of my personal favorite pumpkin patches that are sure to make your autumn complete.
Explore the Best Pumpkin Patches in Des Moines, Iowa
Pumpkinville in Mitchellville
Just a short 20-minute drive east of Des Moines, Pumpkinville in Mitchellville has been a beloved fall tradition for generations of Iowans, including my own family. This family-owned operation covers 30 sprawling acres, offering visitors the chance to wander the rows and hand-pick the perfect pumpkin to take home.
Beyond the pumpkin patch itself, Pumpkinville is a true autumn wonderland, complete with a corn maze, a petting zoo, and a variety of other family-friendly activities.
My kids absolutely adore the hayrides through the scenic countryside, and I never leave without indulging in a fresh apple cider and pumpkin spice donut from the on-site bakery. It's the quintessential fall experience.
Howell's Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze
Another local favorite just outside the city limits is Howell's Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze. Spanning an impressive 40 acres, this patch boasts an incredible selection of gourds in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and colors - perfect for finding that one-of-a-kind pumpkin.
In addition to the pumpkin patch, Howell's offers a challenging corn maze that's sure to test your navigation skills, as well as a petting zoo and other activities that keep the whole family entertained.
It's the perfect spot to spend an autumn afternoon, and I always make sure to stock up on fresh apple cider and homemade baked goods before heading home.
Center Grove Orchard
For those looking for a more diverse fall experience, Center Grove Orchard is an absolute must-visit. Located in Cambridge, just a short drive northeast of downtown Des Moines, this orchard offers a unique blend of traditional fall festivities and modern farm attractions.
In addition to the expansive pumpkin patch, Center Grove Orchard features a variety of activities, including their famous "Farm Crawl" tractor ride, a corn maze, and even a giant jumping pillow. It's the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a day of pumpkin picking along with some thrilling fall fun. And the on-site food options, from warm apple cider to freshly baked pies, are simply irresistible.
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Discover the Best Pumpkin Picking Adventures in Des Moines
Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Experience
One of the things I love most about visiting the pumpkin patches around Des Moines is the opportunity to hand-select my own pumpkin straight from the field. Many of the local patches, including Howell's, offer this wonderful pick-your-own experience, allowing visitors to wander the rows and choose from a stunning array of shapes, sizes, and colors.
Not only is this a fun activity for kids, but it's also a great way for me, as a real estate agent, to find the perfect pumpkins for staging and decorating my listings. I always encourage my clients to embrace the fall spirit and incorporate seasonal decor, and a beautifully carved jack-o'-lantern or a cluster of gourds on the porch can make all the difference in creating that warm, inviting atmosphere.
Pumpkin Painting and Decorating
In addition to the classic pumpkin picking experience, many Des Moines-area pumpkin patches also offer opportunities to get creative with pumpkin painting and decorating. From simple designs to intricate masterpieces, these activities are a wonderful way to unleash your artistic side and create truly one-of-a-kind fall decor.
Several patches even provide all the necessary supplies and guidance, making it easy for even the most novice artists to produce stunning results. As a real estate agent, I love to incorporate these personalized pumpkin creations into my home staging, as they add such a warm, welcoming touch that buyers absolutely adore.
Pumpkin Carving Demonstrations
For those who prefer a more traditional approach to pumpkin prep, many Des Moines pumpkin patches offer live pumpkin carving demonstrations, where visitors can learn from the experts and hone their jack-o'-lantern skills.
These demos are not only educational but also highly entertaining, as skilled carvers transform simple gourds into intricate, spooky, and whimsical designs. I always make sure to bring my camera to capture the process, as I find these techniques incredibly useful for creating festive curb appeal at my listings. Plus, I pick up a few tricks to try at home and impress my own family and friends.
Embrace the Spirit of Autumn in Des Moines
As a lifelong Des Moines resident and agent, I can say with certainty that the pumpkin patch experience is truly one of the highlights of the autumn season in central Iowa. With so many amazing patches scattered throughout the region, it's the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of fall.
Whether you're a newcomer to the area or a longtime Iowan, I encourage you to gather your loved ones and set out on a pumpkin patch adventure. You're sure to create cherished memories, find the perfect seasonal decor for your home, and embrace the cozy, welcoming spirit that makes Des Moines such a special place to live.
So gather your family and friends, lace up your boots, and head out to discover the best pumpkin patches near Des Moines – your perfect fall escape awaits.
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