As October ushers in cooler breezes and the scent of autumn fills the air, it's time to embrace everything that makes fall fun here in Rancho Santa Fe and San Diego. From pumpkin patches to family-friendly activities, the region offers plenty of seasonal fun for residents and visitors alike. Whether you're a long-time local or new to the area, here's a guide to some of the best pumpkin patches and fall-themed events in our beautiful part of California.
1. Pumpkin Station at Del Mar
Located just a short drive from Rancho Santa Fe, Pumpkin Station Del Mar is a family favorite. The patch offers a variety of pumpkins, from classic orange gourds to unique heirloom varieties. It also features exciting attractions such as corn mazes, tractor rides, and a petting zoo, making it perfect for a day of family fun.
Visit their website here for more information on hours and ticket price
2. Carlsbad Strawberry Company: Pumpkin Patch
Known for its vibrant strawberry fields, Carlsbad Strawberry Company transforms into a sprawling pumpkin patch every fall. In addition to picking your perfect pumpkin, visitors can enjoy hayrides, an expansive corn maze, and a sunflower field, making this a must-visit for fall lovers. Don't forget to stop by their food stalls for delicious seasonal treats!
Check out the details on their website
3. LEGOLAND® California Brick-or-Treat Monster Party
LEGOLAND’s Brick-or-Treat Monster Party is a spooktacular event held every weekend in October. It offers a family-friendly Halloween experience where kids can enjoy trick-or-treating, costume contests, and themed entertainment, including LEGO® characters in Halloween costumes, scavenger hunts, and interactive shows. Don’t miss out on exclusive seasonal treats like Granny’s Apple Fries and the Monster Mash Up Shake. The event runs on October 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, and 26-27, 2024. For more details, check out their website.
4. The Scream Zone at Del Mar Fairgrounds
The Scream Zone at Del Mar Fairgrounds is one of the scariest haunted attractions in San Diego, featuring terrifying experiences like the House of Horror, the Haunted Hayride, and the eerie KarnEvil. This year, they've added the Zombie Boot Camp for those brave enough to train for a zombie apocalypse! The Scream Zone runs throughout October, offering a spooky thrill for teens and adults alike. For those not into the scares, the compound offers plenty of food vendors and photo ops, making it a fun outing for groups. For more information, visit their website.
5. Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Patch
A bit further north, Bates Nut Farm in Valley Center has been a staple for fall fun for decades. This farm features one of the largest pumpkin patches in San Diego County, along with a variety of activities including tractor hayrides, a straw maze, and a petting corral. The charming rural atmosphere makes it worth the drive for an authentic fall experience. Click here for more information.
6. Mountain Valley Ranch
Located in Ramona, Mountain Valley Ranch offers a cozy, country-style pumpkin patch experience. Aside from the pumpkins, visitors can enjoy pony rides, a petting zoo, and an old-fashioned corn cannon. The relaxed and rustic vibe is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day. Get more info on their website.
7. Julian’s Annual Harvest Festival
For those who love a little autumn adventure, head to Julian—the charming mountain town known for its apples and pies. Their annual Harvest Festival, running throughout October, offers more than just pumpkins. Experience apple picking, cider tasting, and hayrides while enjoying the cooler mountain air. Be sure to visit some of the town’s historic sites and take home a freshly baked apple pie. Learn more here
8. The Pumpkin Patch at San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
If you have little ones, the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum in Escondido offers a more educational and hands-on fall experience. Their pumpkin patch includes craft stations, live entertainment, and educational activities centered around the fall harvest season. It's a great spot for toddlers and young children to explore and learn. Find out more on their website.
9. Knott's Scary Farm
For those seeking even more thrills, Knott's Scary Farm is the ultimate haunted theme park experience, located just north in Buena Park. It features over a dozen haunted mazes, spooky shows, and scare zones filled with terrifying monsters and ghouls. This iconic Halloween event is not for the faint of heart, offering an immersive and bone-chilling experience for older teens and adults. Knott's Scary Farm runs on select nights in September and October, making it a perfect fall getaway for those who love a good scare.
For more details and ticket information, click here.
Bonus Fall-Themed Activities:
In addition to pumpkin patches, the Rancho Santa Fe and greater San Diego area have plenty of fall-themed activities to keep you in the seasonal spirit:
• The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park: For those looking for a bit of a scare, head to Balboa Park to experience this outdoor haunted attraction, perfect for teens and adults. Learn more here.
• Dia de los Muertos Celebrations: The region offers several cultural celebrations of Day of the Dead, with one of the largest events at Old Town San Diego, complete with altars, music, and traditional Mexican food. Find details here
• Fall Harvest Festival at The Flower Fields: Known for its springtime blooms, The Flower Fields in Carlsbad also hosts a lovely fall festival featuring seasonal crafts, live music, and a pumpkin patch. Check out more info here
