From corn mazes and hayrides to farm animals and perfect pumpkins, Cedar Rapids pumpkin patches offer outstanding farms that make autumn memories magical. Cedar Rapids families know that fall isn’t complete without a trip to a local pumpkin patch. Whether you’re looking for a quick pumpkin-picking adventure or a full day of family fun, these local favorites provide everything you need for the perfect fall outing.

Every fall, my family makes our annual pilgrimage to our favorite Cedar Rapids area pumpkin patch, Kroul Farm – a tradition that’s become as essential as the changing leaves themselves. Grandma and Grandpa come to town specifically for this outing, and we spend the afternoon wandering among the cows, pigs, and other farm animals while the kids delight in every moo and oink. I always find myself standing in front of the beautiful mums, contemplating whether this will be the year I actually remember to water one for more than two weeks (spoiler alert: it never is). We carefully select our pumpkins, each family member with their own criteria for the “perfect” one, take our annual pictures by the ‘how tall are you’ sign, then inevitably drool over the sweet treats at checkout. It’s these simple, repeated moments that make fall traditions so special.

Bart’s Farm and Pumpkin Patch: Family Tradition in Marion

Located at 7307 Alburnett Rd., Marion (just north of Cedar Rapids), Bart’s Farm has been a beloved family-owned Cedar Rapids pumpkin patch for years. This local favorite offers both pre-picked pumpkins and the opportunity to venture through the fields to pick your own.

What makes Bart’s special:

• Family-owned operation with personal touch
• Variety of pre-picked pumpkins and gourds
• U-pick pumpkin field experience
• Farm animals in the barn and yard
• Pony rides on Saturdays (noon-4 pm) for $7
• Pedal toys and bikes for kids
• Hayrack rides on weekends for $2
• Corn maze for $3

Bart’s Farm is open with free admission, and you only pay for specific activities and the pumpkins you choose. The pony rides and farm animals are always a hit with children, making this a perfect destination for families with young kids.

Bass Family Farms: Mount Vernon’s Agritourism Gem

Located at 840 Bass Lane, Mount Vernon (close to Cedar Rapids), Bass Family Farms offers a chemical-free vegetable farm experience with extensive fall activities. This farm is known for its “unplugged” atmosphere where families can escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Bass Family Farms features:

• Chemical-free farming practices
• Agri-tours and educational experiences
• Hay bale rides around the property
• Pumpkin patch with great selection
• Games and family-friendly activities
• Fall festivals each weekend with different themes
• Magic shows, face painting, and special events
• Locally-sourced gourmet food items
• “Snap-o-lantern” ice cream in waffle cones

The farm costs $8 on weekdays and $10 on weekends, with free admission for kids 2 and under. This includes access to various rides and activities, making it an excellent value for families.

Bloomsbury Farm: The Ultimate Fall Destination

Located in Atkins (about 30 minutes from Cedar Rapids), Bloomsbury Farm is often described as “a little Disneyland in the Heartland.” This expansive farm offers more than 20 activities across their 18-acre pumpkin patch.

Bloomsbury Farm features:

• Two large 10-acre corn mazes
• Jumping pillow for bouncing fun
• “Pumpkin blaster” activity
• Zip line adventure
• Petting zoo with farm animals
• Hayrack rides around the property
• Wide variety of games and activities
• “Scream Acres” haunted attraction (October weekends)

While admission is higher than other local farms, it includes access to most activities, making it worthwhile for families planning to spend the entire day enjoying fall festivities.

Kroul Farm: Hidden Gem with Authentic Farm Experience

Just a short drive from Cedar Rapids (and one of my favorites), Kroul Farm offers wholesome family fun without the crowds. This hidden gem provides an authentic farm experience where kids can interact with farm animals and explore at their own pace.

Kroul Farm highlights:

• Free admission and activities
• Farm animals including chickens, bunnies, and cows
• Three-acre corn maze
• Round hay bale maze for smaller children
• Wide variety of pumpkin types and sizes
• Farm-fresh vegetables and eggs
• Seasonal products from local vendors
• Beautiful photo opportunities throughout the farm

Kroul Farm focuses on farm-fresh foods and provides a more intimate, authentic experience where families can truly connect with farm life. At this pumpkin patch in Cedar Rapids, you only pay for the pumpkins and products you choose, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious families.

Colony Acres Family Farm: Close-to-Town Country Fun

Located at 1150 Front St., North Liberty (between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City), Colony Acres describes itself as offering “a little country…in the city.” This family-owned farm has been operating for nearly 20 years and provides an affordable place for families to reconnect.

Colony Acres highlights:

• 10-acre corn maze adventure
• Barrel train rides through the farm
• Bounce house and playground equipment
• U-pick pumpkin patch experience
• Hayrack rides on weekends
• Fall games and activities
• Food and drink options on-site
• Season passes available for frequent visitors

The farm is easily accessible from Cedar Rapids and offers a full day of entertainment for families looking to “get a little dirty while picking out their own pumpkin from the field.”

Planning Your Perfect Pumpkin Patch Visit

Best Visiting Times: Most Cedar Rapids pumpkin patches operate from mid-September through October 31st. Weekends often feature special events and activities, while weekdays typically offer a quieter, more relaxed experience.

What to Expect:

• Admission fees range from free to $15, depending on activities included
• Most farms accept cash, but some also take cards
• Parking is typically free at all locations
• Restroom facilities are available at larger farms

Family Tips:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain
• Bring layers – October weather can be unpredictable
• Consider bringing a wagon for smaller children and pumpkin transport
• Don’t forget your camera for capturing fall memories

Photography Opportunities

Cedar Rapids pumpkin patches provide endless opportunities for capturing beautiful fall family photos. Many farms feature designated photo areas with seasonal decorations, hay bales, and colorful autumn backdrops. The golden hour lighting in late afternoon creates particularly stunning images among the pumpkin fields. This article, Family Vacation Photo Tips, has some tips on how to take amazing pictures.

Popular photo spots include:

• Pumpkin patch fields with rolling hills
• Corn maze entrances and pathways
• Farm animal areas and petting zoos
• Seasonal decorations and hay bale displays
• Apple orchards and tree lines

Cedar Rapids Pumpkin Patches: Making Memories That Last

Each pumpkin patch in Cedar Rapids offers its own unique atmosphere and activities. Bart’s Farm provides intimate, family-owned charm with great animal interactions. Bass Family Farms combines education with entertainment in a chemical-free environment. Colony Acres offers convenient location with comprehensive activities, while Bloomsbury Farm provides the most extensive adventure experience.

Consider making Cedar Rapids pumpkin patch visits an annual family tradition, exploring different farms each year or returning to beloved favorites. Many families find that each farm offers something special, whether it’s the perfect pumpkin selection, unique activities, or simply the joy of spending time together in Iowa’s beautiful fall weather.

Cedar Rapids pumpkin patches represent the best of Midwest autumn traditions – combining agriculture, family fun, and seasonal celebration into experiences that create lasting memories for families of all ages. Plan your visit soon to take advantage of peak pumpkin season and enjoy everything these wonderful local farms have to offer.