Fall Fun in Iowa: 10 Orchards, Pumpkin Patches, & Farms to Visit This Fall

There’s something about fall in Iowa that makes you want to grab a sweatshirt, pile in the car, and head somewhere you can pick an apple, wander through a corn maze, or find the perfect pumpkin.

Across the state, Iowa farms and orchards turn harvest season into an experience. Some are packed with activities that can keep a family busy all day, while others offer a quieter afternoon of apple picking, beautiful views, and fresh-from-the-farm treats.

If you’re ready to make the most of fall in Iowa, add these stops to your list. From western Iowa to the Mississippi River, here are 10 places to celebrate the season and experience a little more of rural Iowa along the way.

  1. Deal’s Orchard | Jefferson

If fall means apples, pumpkins, and a day spent outside with the family, Deal’s Orchard belongs on your list.

This family-owned orchard near Jefferson has been welcoming visitors for generations and offers plenty of ways to enjoy an Iowa fall day. Pick apples, search for pumpkins, explore the corn maze, visit the animals, and make time for the many family-friendly activities around the farm.

And don’t leave without checking out the Apple Barn. Fresh apples and seasonal goodies make it easy to bring a little taste of the orchard home with you.

EOH Explorer Tip: Annie and Shelly and their families have made Deal’s Orchard one of their own fall stops. Read their Explorer blog here: https://www.evolutionoftheheartland.com/eoh-explorer-series-deals-orchard/

 

  1. Center Grove Orchard | Cambridge

You may want to give yourself a full day for Center Grove Orchard.

Located near Cambridge, Center Grove combines an orchard and pumpkin patch with more than 40 farm attractions. Kids can hop aboard the train, tackle giant jumping pillows and slides, visit the animals, explore the corn maze, take a hayride, and, of course, pick out a pumpkin. Apple picking is also part of the experience when varieties are available.

Before heading home, stop at the Country Store for apples, baked goods, and other seasonal favorites.

EOH Explorer Tip: EOH Explorer Lindsey visited Center Grove with her family and shared why it has become one of their favorite fall traditions. https://www.evolutionoftheheartland.com/eoh-explorer-series-center-grove-orchard/

 

  1. Colony Acres Family Farm | North Liberty

Colony Acres Family Farm brings classic fall fun to Johnson County.

The family-owned farm offers a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and seasonal activities that make it an easy addition to a fall weekend in the Iowa City area. It’s the kind of stop where picking a pumpkin is only part of the experience. Give yourself time to enjoy the farm before choosing the one that gets to come home with you.

If Hawkeye football brings you to Johnson County this fall, consider adding a little rural Iowa adventure to your weekend with a trip outside Iowa City. Read the blog here about all the things to do in Johnson County: https://www.evolutionoftheheartland.com/beyond-kinnick-make-the-most-of-your-hawkeye-football-weekend-in-johnson-county/

 

  1. Gravert’s Orchard | Sabula

For fall scenery with your apples, point the car toward the Mississippi River.

Gravert’s Orchard is located near Sabula along Iowa’s Great River Road, making the drive part of the experience. The orchard overlooks the Mississippi River and offers numerous apple varieties throughout the season, including opportunities to pick your own.

Pick up fresh cider, caramel apples, pies, and other orchard favorites while you’re there. Then, instead of rushing home, keep exploring. Fall colors, river views, and small communities make this corner of Iowa especially worth wandering during autumn.

 

  1. Wilson’s Orchard & Farm | Iowa City

At Wilson’s Orchard & Farm, fall can easily turn into an entire afternoon.

The orchard has become a favorite Johnson County destination for visitors looking to experience Iowa agriculture firsthand. Depending on when you visit, you can head into the orchard to pick apples, explore the farm, enjoy seasonal food and drinks, and take in the rolling countryside.

One of the things we love about Wilson’s is that it can be part of a much bigger Johnson County getaway. Pair your orchard visit with other farms, food, shops, and experiences in the area, and suddenly your quick fall outing has become a weekend road trip.

 

  1. Appleberry Orchard | Donnellson

There’s a lot of history growing at Appleberry Orchard.

The orchard traces its roots back to 1852, when its first apple tree was planted, making it Iowa’s oldest working orchard. Today, visitors can pick apples, explore the historic 1882 barn and petting farm, and enjoy the slower pace of an afternoon at the orchard.

Save room for something sweet, too. The bakery, cider slushies, and Queen’s Apple are all good reasons to linger a little longer before hitting the road again.

 

  1. Harvestville Farm | Donnellson

If your idea of fall fun involves pumpkins, Harvestville Farm has plenty to choose from.

The southeast Iowa farm grows more than 125 varieties of pumpkins, squash, and gourds across 35 acres. But picking out your favorites is just the beginning. Visitors can tackle a 12-acre corn maze, enjoy wagon rides, explore two large play areas, and discover more than 45 interactive activities.

With so much to do, this is one to plan some time for rather than squeezing it into a quick stop.

Road Trip Idea: Appleberry Orchard and Harvestville Farm are both in the Donnellson area. Consider visiting both and turning your fall outing into a southeast Iowa road trip.

 

  1. Howell’s Greenhouse & Pumpkin Patch | Cumming

A wagon ride into the pumpkin patch is a pretty good way to spend an Iowa fall day.

At Howell’s Greenhouse & Pumpkin Patch near Cumming, visitors can head to the fields to find a pumpkin, explore the corn maze, visit farm animals, and enjoy a variety of activities around the farm. Add in fall treats, plenty of fresh air, and room for kids to play, and you have the makings of a classic family fall outing.

The 2026 fall season runs September 12 through November 1, giving you plenty of weekends to fit a visit into your fall plans.

 

  1. Bloomsbury Farm | Atkins

If your family likes a lot of action with its pumpkins, Bloomsbury Farm delivers.

Its 2026 Iowa Fall Festival runs September 11 through October 31 and features more than 30 attractions. Explore an 18-acre u-pick pumpkin patch, make your way through the 10-acre corn maze, visit the sunflower field, and spend the day working your way through the farm’s many activities.

Looking for something a little scarier? Bloomsbury is also home to Scream Acres, its nighttime haunted attraction held on select dates in the fall.

 

  1. Plain Ol’ Pumpkins | Clear Lake

Sometimes the best fall fun is the simple kind.

Located just west of Clear Lake, Plain Ol’ Pumpkins was created to give visitors a taste of old-fashioned fun and the experience of growing up on a farm. Pick your own pumpkin, wind your way through the corn maze, take a hayrack ride, climb aboard a tractor, or let the kids tackle the grain truck slide, pedal karts, corn pool, hay pyramid, and more.

The farm’s 2026 season runs September 26 through October 31, making it an easy addition to a fall weekend in the Clear Lake area.

Road Trip Idea: Don’t make the pumpkin patch your only stop. Spend some extra time exploring Clear Lake and North Central Iowa while you’re there.

 

Make a Road Trip Out of It

The best part about these fall destinations? The orchard or pumpkin patch doesn’t have to be the whole trip.

Grab lunch in a nearby small town. Stop at a local shop you’ve never visited. Take the scenic route. Find a state park or trail nearby. Or pair a couple of destinations together and make a weekend out of it.

Fall doesn’t last long in Iowa, which might be exactly why we love it so much. Pick the apples. Find the pumpkin. Get lost in the corn maze. Eat the fall treat. And give yourself an excuse to wander somewhere in rural Iowa you haven’t been before.

Know Before You Go: Fall activities, hours, admission, and crop availability can change throughout the season. Check directly with each destination before traveling for the latest information.

Looking for even more fall adventures? Explore Evolution of the Heartland’s Seasonal Orchards & Patches listings to discover more places to experience fall across rural Iowa.

 

Beyond Kinnick: Make the Most of Your Hawkeye Football Weekend in Johnson County

There’s nothing quite like a Hawkeye football weekend.

By Friday afternoon, Iowa City is buzzing. Fans dressed in black and gold fill the streets, restaurants are packed, and everyone is counting down the hours until kickoff at Kinnick Stadium. Whether you’ve made this trip for years or you’re coming for the first time, there’s an excitement that makes game day in Iowa City something special.

But here’s one thing we’ve learned…Some of the best memories from a football weekend happen outside the stadium.

Drive just a few miles beyond Iowa City and the pace begins to change. The traffic fades, the roads get quieter, and you’ll find orchards, wineries, working farms, and locally owned businesses that remind you why rural Iowa is worth exploring.

That’s exactly what Agri-CULTURE-Iowa is all about. If you’re already making the trip for football, why not give yourself a little extra time to discover another side of Johnson County?

Arrive Early…You Won’t Regret It

If we were planning the perfect football weekend, we’d get to town a little early.

Not because we want to beat traffic (although that’s a nice bonus), but because Friday is the perfect time to explore before the excitement of game day takes over.

Wilson’s Orchard & Farm

Our first stop would probably be Wilson’s Orchard & Farm.

Football season and apple season couldn’t line up any better, and there’s just something about starting the weekend with a warm apple cider donut and fresh cider that feels right. Wander through the orchard, browse the farm market, or simply enjoy being outside before the crowds roll into town.

If you’re putting together snacks for your hotel room or tailgate, you’ll find plenty of local goodies here, too.

Before long, you’ll probably be ready to keep exploring.

Stacie’s Greenhouse & Flower Shop

One stop we always enjoy is Stacie’s Greenhouse & Flower Shop. Depending on the season, you’ll find beautiful flowers, pumpkins, locally grown plants, seasonal décor, and gifts that are just plain fun to browse.

It’s one of those places that encourages you to slow down instead of rushing to the next stop, and that’s exactly what this weekend is about.

Settle In for the Evening

By Friday night, there’s no reason to hurry back into town.

Some of our favorite evenings have been spent enjoying good food, good conversation, and Iowa sunsets before the excitement of Saturday.

Walker Homestead Farm & Winery

One stop we’d encourage you to keep on your radar is Walker Homestead Farm & Winery.

Even if your visit doesn’t line up with one of their public events, it’s still worth stopping by to pick up a bottle of locally crafted wine and enjoy the beautiful countryside. And there’s even more to look forward to, with a new tasting room expected to open soon.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during one of their Thursday pizza nights or another public event, you’ll get an even better taste of what makes this family-owned farm such a favorite. Just be sure to check their schedule before you head out, as many weekends are reserved for private events.

Cedar Ridge Distillery

If bourbon is more your style, or you’re simply looking for another memorable stop, Cedar Ridge Distillery is always worth the drive.

Take a tour, sample award-winning spirits, enjoy a handcrafted cocktail, or sit down for dinner overlooking the rolling hills. Check the schedule to see if live music will be happening while you’re there as well. Whether you’re celebrating a Hawkeye win or simply enjoying a weekend away, it’s easy to see why so many people make Cedar Ridge part of their Johnson County tradition.

See a Different Side of Johnson County

One of the things we appreciate most about Agri-CULTURE-Iowa is the chance to meet the people behind the places you’re visiting.

These aren’t just attractions. They’re family businesses, working farms, and organizations that love sharing what they do with others.

Connorridge Farms

If you’ve ever wondered what life on a working Iowa farm is really like, Connorridge Farms is a great place to start.

You’ll have the opportunity to learn about livestock, ask questions, and hear firsthand from the family behind the farm. It’s an authentic experience that gives visitors a deeper appreciation for the work, care, and dedication that goes into Iowa agriculture every day.

Elangeni Farm (Coming Soon)

If you enjoy discovering places before everyone else does, keep Elangeni Farm on your radar.

In the countryside of Johnson County, Elangeni is an organic farm built around sustainability, conservation, and a deep appreciation for the land. The farm is home to organic aronia berries, Dorper sheep, honey bees, restored prairie, woodlands, and ponds that attract an incredible variety of wildlife. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take a walk, and appreciate the quieter side of rural Iowa.

The owners have exciting plans for the future, including farm tours, educational opportunities, outdoor events, and other agritourism experiences. While those offerings are still in the works, Elangeni is already a wonderful example of the stewardship and innovation you’ll find throughout Agri-CULTURE-Iowa. It’s definitely one we’ll be keeping an eye on, and we think you should, too.

Johnson County Historic Poor Farm

Just as agriculture tells part of Johnson County’s story, so does its history.

The Johnson County Historic Poor Farm combines restored prairie, walking trails, gardens, and historic buildings into one fascinating destination. It’s peaceful, educational, and only a short drive from all the energy surrounding game day.

After the Game…

Once the final whistle blows, most visitors point their car toward home. We’d encourage you to do the opposite. Stay a little longer.

Colony Acres Family Farm

If you’re visiting during football season, Colony Acres Family Farm is full of everything people love about fall.

Pumpkins, corn mazes, hayrack rides, and wide-open spaces make it a fun stop whether you’re traveling with kids or simply embracing your own inner child for a while.

Land Alliance Farm, Folk School & Retreat

If you’re looking for a little reset before heading home, Land Alliance Farm, Folk School & Retreat is worth adding to your weekend.

Take a walk through the property on a self-guided tour of the elderberry fields and the wetlands, experience a tasting of the elderberry drinks, or book a class from the class library. It’s a peaceful place that offers a completely different pace than downtown Iowa City, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need before heading back to reality.

Make It a Weekend

Here’s our biggest piece of advice…

If your schedule allows, don’t try to squeeze everything into one day.

One extra night gives you the chance to experience Johnson County in a completely different way.

Lucky Star Farm

Imagine waking up on a working farm instead of in a hotel parking lot.

Lucky Star Farm offers visitors a peaceful countryside stay where open skies, fresh air, and the rhythms of farm life become part of the experience. Book a farm tour and get insider view of the farm and its workings. It’s a chance to slow down, unplug, and enjoy rural Iowa beyond a quick stop.

Calyx Creek Lavender & Lodging

If you’re looking for a quiet retreat, Calyx Creek Lavender & Lodging offers comfortable accommodations surrounded by scenic countryside. Depending on the season, you’ll find blooming lavender, peaceful walking paths, and the kind of setting that makes it easy to relax after a busy weekend.

Land Alliance Farm, Folk School & Retreat

If you’d rather fully unplug, consider extending your stay at Land Alliance Farm, Folk School & Retreat. Cozy cabins and camping options allow you to spend another evening surrounded by nature, making it easy to trade the noise of the weekend for a peaceful night under the stars.

It’s About More Than Football

Don’t get us wrong…we’ll never pass up a Saturday at Kinnick Stadium. The traditions, the atmosphere, and cheering on the Hawkeyes are what bring so many people to Johnson County each fall.

But some of our favorite football weekends have included just as much time outside Iowa City as inside it. They’re the weekends where we grabbed a cider donut before kickoff, watched the sunset with a glass of Iowa wine, met the family behind a local farm, or took the scenic route home because we weren’t quite ready for the weekend to end.

That’s what Agri-CULTURE-Iowa is all about. It’s about discovering the farms, makers, entrepreneurs, and rural communities that give Johnson County its character while supporting the local businesses that make those experiences possible.

So the next time you’re planning a Hawkeye football weekend, give yourself a little extra time. Arrive a little earlier, stay a little longer, and don’t be afraid to venture beyond the city limits. We have a feeling you’ll head home with more than memories of the game. You’ll probably leave with a few new favorite places, too.

Ready to Plan Your Weekend?

If this sounds like your kind of football weekend, we’ve got plenty more ideas to help you make the most of your visit. Explore more Agri-CULTURE-Iowa destinations throughout Johnson County, discover even more farms, wineries, local businesses, and hidden gems.

Because around here, the best weekends aren’t just about where you’re going…they’re about everything you discover along the way.

 

Agritourism Adventures in Johnson County

Discover the Farms, Flavors, and Rural Experiences Beyond Iowa City

When most people think of Johnson County, Iowa City often comes to mind first. But venture beyond the city limits and you’ll discover a thriving agritourism community. From orchards and boutique wineries to lavender fields and educational farm stays, local makers here are opening their gates to share the best of rural Iowa.

Through Agri-CULTURE-Iowa, visitors can easily map out a countryside getaway, a hands-on farm experience, or a taste of locally crafted food and beverages.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Farm Experiences & Family Fun

  • Wilson’s Orchard & Farm: For generations, Wilson’s has been a staple for seasonal apple picking, fresh cider, and family-friendly events. But its mission reaches far beyond the orchard rows. At its core, Wilson’s is committed to a local, ethical, and regenerative food system. Visitors can shop for Iowa-grown products, enjoy farm-to-table seasonal foods, and see firsthand how sustainable agriculture supports the local community.
  • Colony Acres Family Farm: Celebrating more than 100 years of family farming, Colony Acres Family Farm has become a place where agriculture, community, and memorable experiences come together. Located in the heart of the growing North Liberty area, the family-owned farm offers seasonal events, local food and drink, and agritourism experiences that connect visitors to the land and to each other. While many know Colony Acres for its popular pumpkin season, the farm’s mission extends far beyond fall, creating meaningful opportunities for guests to experience Iowa agriculture year-round.
  • Elangeni Farm: Coming Soon: Nestled in Johnson County’s rolling hills, Elangeni Farm specializes in raising lamb with a deep commitment to land stewardship and animal welfare. It offers visitors a quiet, authentic glimpse into the daily rhythms of a working Midwestern farm.

Sip, Savor & Enjoy Local Flavors

  • Walker Homestead Farm & Winery: Situated on 80 acres of farmland, vineyards, and gardens, this homestead is a stunning culinary destination. Seasonal produce harvested on-site finds its way directly onto your plate, paired beautifully with wines produced right on the farm. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy an evening meal overlooking the vines.
  • Cedar Ridge Distillery: Long before Cedar Ridge became an internationally recognized name, the Quint family was farming Iowa soil. Founded in 2005, Cedar Ridge was Iowa’s first licensed distillery since Prohibition. Built on the belief that the nation’s leading corn state should produce world-class bourbon, they offer true grain-to-glass tours showing how Iowa corn becomes award-winning whiskey.

Flowers, Gardens & Countryside Retreats

  • Calyx Creek Lavender & Lodging: Step into an unexpected purple oasis. Rows of fragrant lavender create a striking contrast to Iowa’s familiar corn and soybean fields. Visitors can stroll through the blooms, shop for handmade lavender products, or book a relaxing weekend stay at their on-site lodging.
  • Stacie’s Greenhouse & Flower Shop: Located near Oxford, this locally owned gem proves that agriculture comes in many forms. Every spring, the greenhouse bursts into color with rows of annuals, perennials, and hanging baskets, alongside unique garden pieces crafted by local artisans.

Stay, Learn & Connect

  • Lucky Star Farm: Since 2011, Lucky Star Farm has offered visitors an immersive glimpse into modern homesteading. Raising dairy goats and ducks for eggs, the farm utilizes sustainable practices like solar energy and silvopasture. Guests can book overnight stays, explore the pastures, and even participate in seasonal events like goat yoga.
  • Land Alliance Farm, Folk School & Retreat: Here, agritourism meets traditional education. Surrounded by a landscape shaped by regenerative farming, Land Alliance hosts artists, farmers, and makers who teach classes on traditional crafts, natural dyes, food production, and land stewardship. Cabins, glamping, and farmhouse stays allow guests to turn their workshop into a full retreat.

Explore Johnson County’s Agricultural Heritage

  • Johnson County Historic Poor Farm: Established in 1855, this site originally provided housing and agricultural work for individuals experiencing hardship. Today, Johnson County is preserving this unique history while reimagining the land for modern community connection. Visitors can walk the Healing Trail, explore restored natural areas, and tour the historic buildings to reflect on how this land continues to serve the public today.

Experience the Heart of Johnson County

Venture beyond Iowa City and you’ll find that Johnson County’s rural charm is waiting just down the road. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a quick afternoon day trip, these destinations offer a meaningful way to connect with Iowa’s heritage and the people who keep it alive.

Please note: Many agritourism destinations operate seasonally or offer limited hours. Be sure to check individual websites and social media pages for current hours, events, and availability before visiting.