Cheap Places: Your Pick of the Patch

Who out there doesn't like the fall? Personally, it's my favorite time of year – and not just because it means the kiddos are in school! There's just something about cool mornings, warm afternoons and watching the season's slow shift that makes the world feel right. These are the days that beg for a trip with the family to the local pumpkin patch. Not only are these great places to make memories and pick up some fall produce, they are things the whole family can enjoy without breaking the bank. My pick for this fall's "Cheap Places" segment is (insert drumroll here) Pumpkinville in Great Valley, New York.

A Great Day Trip

Living in western New York means there are quite a few farms around that do the fall-harvesty-pumpkin thing; most are within a half-hour's drive of us. Pumpkinville, nestled in the ski country near Ellicottville, is a good hour or so south of the Buffalo area. In the fall, this is usually a very scenic drive and can be the focus of a nice and relaxing family day away from the hustle and bustle of every day.

Did I Mention It's Free?

This little gem of a farm and patch charges no admission fee to come visit them for the day. They also have some nice activities at the farm that are free (plus some for a small charge; more on that in a bit). So, if the budget was ultra-tight, you could pack a lunch for the family, pile in the car and just enjoy spending an afternoon at the farm – totally free! The kiddos will love the small petting zoo and storybook cutouts as well as the huge pumpkins on display.

Got a Little Cash?

Pumpkinville also offers some other activities for families that won't cost an arm and a leg. Give a hayride a try, get lost in the corn maze and let the little ones get on board the cow train (rest assured, just a name with no real animal involvement). Head out to the pumpkin patch to pick out your future jack-o-lantern or nab some homegrown apples to take home for a pie. Treat everyone to a homemade pumpkin donut and a cup of freshly milled cider from the farm's own antique cider mill.

For more information on all that Pumpkinville has to offer as well as specific directions and hours, visit their webiste: www.pumpkinville.com

Find Your Own

Of course, we here at MomVesting know all of our audience isn't located in the Great Valley, NY, area. So, to get you started on finding your own potential Pumpkinville, give this great website a try; it lists patches for all states and even a few countries outside of the US.

We'd like to hear from you! Let us know where you and your family head for some cheap fall fun.

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