Pumpkins, Apples, & Autumn Fun: Your Family Guide to Fall Adventures
It’s almost Autumn, and as the weather finally gives us a short respite from the Carolina heat, it’s time to dive into the most beautiful and fun season of the year. Here’s our rundown on the best family-centered pumpkin patches and apple-picking experiences around the area with content ranging from Local-ish Fall Orchards & Farms, Fall Activities in the Triangle, and Upcoming Local Fall Events.
Millstone Creek Orchards
Location: 506 Parks Crossrds Church Rd, Ramseur, NC
What makes it special/activities: For the perfect local apple-picking adventure, Millstone Creek Orchards has all the cozy fall vibes you’re looking for, from fresh cider to donuts and seasonal treats. The Cider House @ Millstone Creek, their newest waterfront spot, offers handcrafted flatbreads, sandwiches, and shareable plates. Sip on local favorites like hard cider, craft beer, wine, wine slushies, and the must-try apple cider sangria. Looking to decorate for fall? The Apple Barn is stocked with decorative pumpkins, pre-picked and ready to go for just $0.80 per pound. Pick your own pumpkins and meet adorable baby Highland cows, Dooley & Rooster, every Saturday and Sunday in October for $18.95 per person (kids 2 & under are free).
When: Saturdays & Sundays from September 27th through October 26th. Reservations required.
Cost: Apple picking: $18.95/person + cost of apples (includes slushie, hayrides, and other amenities). Pumpkin Patch with Highland Cows: $18.95/person + cost of pumpkin (kids 2 & under are free).
Quick Links: Facebook
Gross Farms
Location: 1606 Pickett Rd, Sanford, NC
What makes it special/activities: The epitome of fall and harvest fun with everything from a pumpkin cannon to a playground and corn maze. Huge fields of pumpkins make this a family adventure in itself!
When: Beginning September 13 – November 2, Saturdays: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sundays: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and Fridays (October Only): 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Cost: $20/person + cost of pumpkin. Season pass: $50/person for unlimited access.
Social Media: Instagram, Facebook
white hills Farm
Location: 5020 S Plank Rd, Cameron NC
What makes it special/activities: Specializing in local produce, from apple butter to whole organic chickens. On top of fall-centric activities like a corn maze and pumpkin picking, you can enjoy local artisan goods as well! NEW THIS YEAR: The best bounce pad, corn pit, playground that keeps kids entertained (and safe!) for hours.
When: Beginning mid-September. Open Daily!
Cost: Varies by activity
Social Media: Facebook
Head there with the family via Trolley Sunday, October 12th or Sunday, October 26th!
Kalawi Farm
Location: 1515 NC-211, Eagle Springs, NC
What makes it special/activities: Known for their peaches, Kalawi’s homestead and ice cream parlor will host all the fall festivities, with an awesome pumpkin patch. From hayrides to a giant corn maze, huge inflatables, and a massive burlap sack slide, Kalawi is packed with family-friendly fun.
When: Beginning September 26 - November 2, Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 10 AM - 7 PM.
Cost: $15/person (ages 3-17), $8/adult, 2 and under are free.
Social Media: Facebook, Instagram
Phillips Farm
Location: 6720 Good Hope Church Road Cary, NC 27519
What makes it special/activities: The farm features a blend of activities for everyone. Busbee's Country Store and Dampf Good BBQ host the lively Shop & Play Saturdays farmer's market, which is free to enter. For an extra dose of fun, there's gemstone mining just outside the Pavilion. The Family Fun Park, which includes a sunflower field, corn maze, and Haunted attractions, requires general admission. The Haunted Maze is perfect for thrill-seekers, especially as fall approaches!
When: September 13 - November 8, Open Thursdays through Sunday from 1 PM - 5 PM.
Cost: Admission is $20 per person (ages 2+) during the fall season and includes Fun Park activities: fun park, corn maze, sunflower field, and other rides, games and attractions, and the Pint Sized Pasture Petting Zoo (petting zoo is only available Saturday-Sunday).
Social Media: Facebook, Instagram
Naylor Family Farm and Corn Maze
Location: 6016 US 401 N, Fuquay-Varina, NC
What makes it special/activities: A family-owned pumpkin extravaganza that offers the perfect autumn atmosphere. You won’t want to miss the interactive hayride with live actors, giant tube slides, corn cribs, farm animal petting zoos, Pig Pavilion, a life-size pirate ship, a retired Bell helicopter, barrel trains, and inflatables under the giant jump barn. There's even a special toddler town for the little ones! And don’t forget the free pumpkins on the hayride! Make sure to book online before you go!
September Hours (beginning September 13th): Saturday: 9am - 6pm & Sunday: 1 - 6pm
October Hours: Monday - Friday: 11am - 4pm, Saturday: 9am - 6pm + Sunday: 10am - 6pm
*10/21/25 is the only day we are closed in October for a scheduled maintenance day!*
November Hours - Saturday: 9am - 6pm & Sunday: 1 - 6pm
Cost: $24/person (Ages 3+)
Social Media: Facebook
Best Kids Fall Activities in the Triangle: Farms, Festivals, and Fun Events
Fall is full of family fun around the Triangle if you’re willing to make the drive! 🍂 From festive Trunk-or-Treats and seasonal celebrations to pumpkin patches and classic autumn outings, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly adventures to enjoy.
Amy Hartle over at Raleigh Family Adventure has rounded up the very best local events and activities to help you make the most of the season.
Quick links:
Top Raleigh Fall Activities: Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes, and Fall Farms to Visit
Fall Events in the Triangle: Fall Festivals + Seasonal Fun – 2025
Upcoming local Events
Well, that’s a wrap on our guide to the best fall-inspired spots in and around Moore County! Whether you're in it for the hayrides, fresh cider, or finding the perfect pumpkin, these local gems (as well as the ones that require a bit of a drive!) have everything you need for an unforgettable fall. We hope this guide helps make your season extra special. Happy fall, everyone! 🍁
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