Autumn is coming and pumpkins are so popular. These 3 places have great harvest and fun to pick melons._1
As autumn rolls in, pumpkin season takes center stage across the United States. Whether it’s the whimsical jack-o’-lanterns dotting the streets or the enticing aroma of pumpkin treats wafting from cafes and dessert shops, there’s something undeniably exciting about this time of year. But nothing beats witnessing ripe pumpkins glistening in the sunlight, reminding us of nature’s bounty. Here are three must-visit locations in New York for enjoying the beauty of fall and pumpkins.
**New York Botanical Garden (NYBG)**
This autumn, the New York Botanical Garden transforms into the city’s pumpkin headquarters, boasting an impressive array of pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal flowers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the joys of the harvest season through a variety of activities, including pumpkin carving contests and an enchanting holiday lights pathway. Additionally, their popular beer tasting events invite everyone to savor the magic of fall.
On select evenings, the garden offers a mesmerizing light trail, where both children and adults can don their best Halloween costumes and stroll through the city’s most picturesque fall scenery, creating unforgettable family memories.
Beyond the rich lineup of events, the New York Botanical Garden serves as a photographer’s paradise. With over a hundred pumpkins and gourds of various shapes, sizes, and colors scattered throughout the grounds, visitors will find countless opportunities for capturing autumn’s beauty. Whether it’s family portraits or fun snaps with friends, the colorful backdrop is perfect for social media sharing.
The New York Botanical Garden is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and also on federal holiday Mondays. You can find them at 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458-5126. For more information, visit nybg.org.
**Hank’s PumpkinTown**
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy stunning fall views, experience pumpkin picking, and escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Hank’s PumpkinTown in Long Island is your ideal destination.
Spanning over 30 acres, Hank’s PumpkinTown transforms into a vibrant harvest wonderland every fall, attracting visitors from all around. One of the highlights here is the pumpkin-picking experience, where you can select your own pumpkin right from the patch. Whether you plan to decorate, bake, or carve, there’s a vast selection of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, priced at just $0.79 per pound, making it easy to bring home a piece of autumn’s charm.
In addition to pumpkin picking, Hank’s PumpkinTown offers a range of family-friendly activities. A hayride takes visitors through pumpkin and cornfields while sharing the story of the farm’s harvest. For those seeking a challenge, the on-site corn maze promises fun for both kids and adults alike, making it a great way to bond over shared exploration.
On weekends and holidays, attendees can also enjoy traditional autumn treats, from apple cider and donuts to caramel apples, combining play with a delicious taste of the season.
The farm is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM and is located at 240 Montauk Hwy, Water Mill, NY 11976. For ticket details and more info, check out hankspumpkintown.com.
**Queens County Farm Museum**
Every October, the Queens County Farm Museum becomes a popular hotspot in New York City, thanks to its pumpkin patch that dates back over 300 years. Established in 1697, this historical agricultural landmark allows visitors to stroll through its expansive grounds and enjoy the unique charm of fall.
The sprawling 47-acre farm offers a beautiful setting to wander while soaking in the rich history that resonates throughout the fields. Each corner of the farm carries a story waiting to be discovered, providing not only a treat for the eyes but also nourishment for the soul. Interacting with animals is another delightful aspect of the farm experience, with visitors having the chance to feed sheep hay from the farm store.
Entry to the museum is free this month. It opens Monday through Friday from 12 PM to 4:30 PM, and on weekends and holidays from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, though some dates may require special tickets. For more information, visit queensfarm.org.