The Ultimate Guide to Fall Fun in St. Louis
Fall is my absolute favorite season in the Midwest. The cooler weather and changing leaves make the perfect backdrop for an endless area of great activities for all ages around St. Louis Whether you are looking for the best St. Louis Pumpkin Patches, St. Louis area apple picking, corn mazes, fall day trips from St. Louis, or St. Louis area fall events, check out this handy guide ot the best fall fun all in one spot.
* Post has been updated for 2026 but please check websites or Facebook pages for each location before you visit for up to date information.
Best St. Louis Area Pumpkin Patches, Apple Picking, and Corn Mazes
While you could buy a ready to go pumpkin from the grocery store, it’s a lot more fun to make the trip to one of the many St. Louis area farms that offer pick-your-own patches. Not only do they present a beautiful backdrop for choosing the perfect pumpkin, but most of these patches have a variety of family friendly activities and entertainment. Read on for the best St. Louis area pumpkin patches to explore no matter which side of the river you are on.
🎃Best Patches & Farms on the Missouri Side 🍎
Austin Farms
Austin Farms is located just outside of Festus. This family owned farm offers a pumpkin patch, corn maze, bounce house, games and more. Tractor rides are available Friday evenings and weekends. They also host a special Family Fun Day on October 10 from 10-6 with additional activities and vendors.
Address: 10595 Stroup Rd, Festus, MO
Dates: Open mid-September – October 31st.
Hours: Wednesday – Friday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday & Sundays 10 a.m.-6 p.m
Admission: FREE
Bloomsdale Farms
Bloomsdale family fun farm south of the city is sure to be a hit for the whole family. Attractions include a corn maze, rides, petting zoo, photo ops, tire pyramid, pumpkin house, bubble barn, jumping pillow, hay pyramid, duck derby, hiking trails, sunflowers, apple cannon, smores, and pumpkin patch.
Address: 11803 Carron Rd, Bloomsdale, MO
Dates: Open weekends Sept 26-October 25 with a flash sale on advance tickets through Sept 10
Hours: Saturdays & Sundays 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Admission: $26.95 at the gate or $21.95 online, $14.95 online during flash sale Sept 16.
An Ultimate Pass also includes apple cannons and paintball.
This upgraded pass is $24.95 during the flash sale and $36.95 at the gate.
Military get in free opening weekend at the gate with ID
Brookdale Farms
This beautiful farm in Eureka offers a huge variety of activities. Brookdale’s 17-acre corn maze is the largest in St. Louis. They also feature a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, pony rides, low ropes course, life-size games, inflatables, cow train, corn pit, playground, pumpkin cannon, sunflowers, and more. There is also an Autumn Glow walk and they have fall campfire nights. If you are looking for something scarier, they also offer a haunted haunted walkthrough experience.
Address: 8004 Twin River Rd, Eureka, MO
Dates: The fall farm activities are open Sept. 12 – Nov 8.
Hours: Wednesdays – Sundays 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
The haunted corn maze is Fri. & Sat. nights from Sept 25-Oct 31 from dark – 10:45 p.m.
Admission: Wednesdays & Thursdays : $12 online/$15 at gate.
Fridays – Sundays $15 online/$17 gate, free for 3 and under all days. Cash or card accepted.
No outside food or beverages allowed. Additional add on activities available including paint & hide your own rock, mechanical bull riding, pumpkin cannon & slingshots, and carriage rides.
Admission to the Hollows Haunted Trail is $20/guest (early bird price), $25/guest (day-of price),
$30/guest at the gate, Bundle Pass (4 Guests): $80 Online only
Centennial Farms
Centennial Farms is located in scenic Augusta, Missouri. Apple picking is happening now and each year starting the last weekend in September, their farm turns into a “Pumpkin Fantasyland” with full size pumpkin and gourd characters representing farm folks, storybook characters and some of your favorite movie characters. They also have a kids play area with a play fort with slide, climbing wall, grain bin, straw tunnel, bouncing pumpkin, kid sized diggers, and many photo opportunities. Apples and pumpkins are available to pick as well while in season with tractor rides to the orchard.
Address: 199 Jackson St, Augusta, MO
Dates: Open weekends Sept 12- Nov 8
Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Admission: $5 per person with fall fun activities starting last weekend in September through October.
Daniels Farm & Greenhouse
Daniel’s in St. Peters is a great option for those in St. Charles County. They offer a giant straw maze, tube slides, fort maze, petting zoo, swings, corn boxes, antique farm equipment, and much more. Weekends include pony and small train rides plus a nerf zone for an additional charge. They have pumpkins, gourds, straw bales, mums, and more available for purchase.
Address: 352 Jungermann Rd, St Peters, MO
Dates: Fall activities starting Sept 19 – Nov 1
Hours: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Admission: 2025 admission was $12 for those over 2.
Dickherber Farms
Dickherber Farms in Dardenne Prairie may not have a pumpkin patch, but if you are looking for a great corn maze or farm animals then it may be the place for you. Their yearly corn maze is filled with 34 checkpoints to solve a word puzzle and to help you navigate through the paths. They have a large selection of Petting Farm animals including mini donkeys, mini horse, cattle goats, pigs, sheep, chickens, kittens, ducks, and pilgrim geese. Date to open for the season is unknown as of 9/8/2026.
Address: 7063 Highway N, Dardenne Prairie, MO
Hours: Call to verify hours before visiting as I found conflicting info, but google says the Hours are 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday & Sunday and 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sundays. (636) 474-1147
Admission: Last year was $10 per person, under 4 is free.
Eagle Fork Farms
Eagle Fork Farms in Moscow Mills is known for their intricate GPS cut 8-acre corn mazes with a special theme this year to celebrate America’s 250th birthday! You can even track your progress through the maze using GPS on your phone! In addition to the maze they feature gemstone mining, pumpkins, horse and tractor rides, apple cannon, and a kid’s play area with activities and animals.
Address: 65 Eagle Fork Ln, Moscow Mills, MO
Dates: Open Sept 12-Oct 31.
Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Tuesday – Sunday.
Admission: General admission is free with a fee for each activity of $3-$6.
Heartland Farms
Heartland Farms is located west of St. Louis in Bourbon. This fun farm has a variety of activities including corn bin, play village, fire truck slide, climbing net, bounce pad, duck races, giant bubbles, zip line, farm animals, tractor ride, corn maze, photo ops, games, and more. This year’s corn maze has a cool Route 66 across the country theme!
Address: 8289 North Service Road, Bourbon, MO
Hours: Open daily Sept. 12 – Nov. 1.
Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., daily
Admission: Opening weekend has a special $10 admission pass and vendor fair.
Admission for regular fall fest dates is $15.69 online for general admission (includes online purchase fee),
ages 65+ and military are $12.61, ages 2 and under free.
Kirkwood Farmers Market
Each October, Summit Produce at the Kirkwood Farmers Market sets up a Fall Fun Zone and Pumpkin Patch. In addition to pumpkins, there are pedal tractors, a haunted tunnel, straw mountain, slides, trampolines, needle in a haystack game and more.
Address: 150 E Argonne Dr, Kirkwood, MO
Dates: The pumpkin patch is open September 25 – October 31.
Hours: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday-Thursday and 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Fridays.
Admission: $6 for all activities, or free for just the pumpkin patch.
Meert Tree Farm
If you are looking for a classic pumpkin patch and corn maze on a budget, check out Meert Tree Farm in Festus. You can take a wagon ride to their patch and wander their corn maze all for free! They even have a free fall festival October 3rd & October 4th.
Address: 14560 Dry Fork Rd, Festus, MO
Dates: Their patch opens October 3- October 31.
Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Admission: Free admission for wagon ride to pumpkin patch and corn maze.
Pierce Century Farm
At Pierce Century Farm in Hillsboro you can explore a corn maze, take a hay ride through the apple orchard, pick a pumpkin, and enjoy homemade treats. You can also take aim with a high-powered apple cannon. Keep an eye on the website and Facebook page for dates and activities.
Address: 6085 Butcher Branch Rd, Hillsboro, MO
Dates: Fall Fun Days typically start late Sept – end of October (2026 dates have not been announced yet)
Hours: Saturdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sundays 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: 2025 admission was $10 for those over 2, tickets may be purchased online.
Pin Oaks Farm Pumpkin Patch
Take a scenic drive an hour west of St. Louis to visit Pin Oak Farm in New Haven. Not only can you pick pumpkins right off the vine, but they offer an array of activities as well. There is a 5-acre corn maze, animals to pet, straw bale maze, play area, tub o’corn, and a kiddie corral with bounce houses, pumpkin golf, and more.
Address: 2317 Highway E, New Haven, MO
Dates: Opening day September 26 through late October
Hours: Fridays-Sundays 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Admission: $5 per person and $7.50 for Kiddie Corral. (2025 prices)
Pumpkins Galore
Pumpkins Galore has been operating in Wright City for over 30 years and now has over 100 acres of pumpkins. Other activities include a corn maze, sand box, grain box, petting zoo, hay ride, pedal tractors, build your own scarecrow, hay rides, pony rides, and much more. Weekends include wagon rides, pony rides, concessions, and chainsaw artist.
Address: 26415 S Stringtown Rd, Wright City, MO
Dates: Opening Sept 19 – late October
Hours: Daily 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Admission: General admission and most activities are free. Corn maze in 2025 was $5 for everyone over 4.
Roosters Farm Pumpkin Patch
Roosters Pumpkin Patch first opened in 2022 in Jonesburg, Missouri. Roosters offers many activities including, hay rides, barrel cars, grain cart basketball, 20 foot pipe slide, duck races, corn maze, bounce house, food, vendors, live music and more. Enjoy pick your own pumpkins and cut your own flower patches!
Address: 30903 Honey Locust Rd, Jonesburg, MO
Dates: The patch will be open September 19- November 1.
Hours: Daily 9 a.m. – 6 p.m
Admission: 2025 prices were $8 Admission, ages 2 and under are free, 55 and over/military customers $6.
Rowe Crop Farm
Take a scenic drive down to the Arcadia Valley of Missouri to visit this fun farm in Caledonia. Enjoy the u-pick pumpkin patch, sunflowers, corn maze, corn pit, slides, jump pillow, hay rides, duck races, gem mining, farm animals, photo ops, and more.
Address: 10766 Webster Rd, Caledonia, MO
Dates: The farm will be open September 12- October 25
Hours: September: Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m, Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
October: Wednesday & Thursday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m, Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Admission: $12 Admission, ages 3 and under are free, veterans and seniors over 65 get $2.00 off admission
Stuckmeyers Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
Stuckmeyers is another budget friendly patch in the south county area with pumpkins, mums, corn stalks, and more. Located in Fenton, the farm features farm animals , hayrides, Fort Spooky play area, and a corn maze. On weekends there are also pony rides, inflatable farm train, inflatable slide, and an inflatable Haunted House.
Address: 249 Schneider Dr, Fenton, MO
Dates: Halloween Farm Fun Days start September 26th – October 31.
Hours: Monday through Friday – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sundays 9 p.m. to 5 p.m..
Admission: Free general admission, fees for some activities
Sullivan Farms
Sullivan Farms operates a pumpkin patch in Florissant. They offer a free hayride and a free straw castle maze. They also have the popular fresh baked Pumpkin, Zucchini, and Banana Nut breads again this year. Pony ride area available on the weekends.
Address: 16704 New Halls Ferry Road Florissant, MO
Dates: The farm typically opens in late September (2026 dates yet to be announced)
Hours: Monday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Admission: Free admission, other activities may have a fee.
Theirbach Orchard
Theirbach Orchard offers fresh fruit and family fun near the Katy Trail, an hour west of St. Louis. Apples are in season now. Admission includes entry to the mazes, kids play area, wagon ride, photo ops, animals and more.
Address: 18427 State Highway 47, Marthasville, MO
Hours: 9 a.m -6 p.m. Saturday & Sundays
Admission: $5 admission includes field access and play area
Thies Farm
Thies Farm creates a popular Pumkinland attraction each October at their Maryland Heights and St. Charles locations. Pumpkinland features an impressive straw bale play area with structures, tunnels, and photo ops. General admission includes access to the whole Pumpkinland play area, farm animals, corn maze and wagon ride. Concessions, face painting, pumpkin decorating, pony rides and a corn cannon are available on weekends only for an extra charge. This years theme includes an Alice and Wonderland theme at both locations.
Address: 14101 Creve Coeur Airport Rd, St. Louis, MO & 3200 Greens Bottom Road, St. Charles
Dates: Pumpkinland is typically open late September – October 31st.
Hours: 9am-5pm Tuesday thru Sunday.
Admission: $13 per person, includes $2 voucher per person for the farm market, 2 and under are free
🎃Illinois Metro-East Best Patches and Farms🍎
Backroads Pumpkin Patch
If you just want a peaceful spot to purchase pumpkins and pose for photos without the fuss, The Backroads Pumpkin Patch between O’Fallon and Collinsville is a great spot.
Address: 44 Bohnenstiehl Road , Collinsville, IL
Dates: Open daily starting late September-early November
Hours: 7 a.m. – dark.
Admission: Free admission, cash only for pumpkin purchases
Boonie’s Farm
Located in Worden, Boonie’s offers a wide variety of activities. Not only is there a pumpkin patch, but they also have a barrel train, farm animals, bounce pillow, baby animals, zipline, trike track, photo-ops, corn maze, giant slide, pumpkin cannon, food and drinks, and more. Their location is also pet friendly.
Address: 8863 Dustman Rd, Worden, IL
Dates: Fall fun runs Oct 3 until October 25th. Open Columbus Day.
Hours: Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: 2025 prices: $15.95 if purchased online in advance or $18.95 on site for anyone ages 2 and up.
Braeutigam Orchards
Braeutigam in Belleville is one we love to visit. If you are looking for a more authentic family farm experience, this is the one to see They have a cute kids play area, plus tractor rides, and farm animals. Their store and bakery sell amazing cider doughnuts and slushies along with other goodies. Take a ride to the orchard to pick apples or pumpkins. You can also purchase food to feed the various farm animals.
Address: 2795 Turkey Hill Ln, Belleville, IL
Hours: Monday through Friday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday: 9am-5 p.m.
Admission: Admission and tractor rides are free.
Broom Orchard
Broom Orchard is located near the charming town of Carlinville, Illinois. With no admission fee to pick pumpkins or apples, this farm provides family fun on a budget. They also have a play area, sunflowers, and corn maze for no charge.
Address: 12803 Broom Rd, Carlinville, IL
Dates: Open now with an Apple Festival Sept 26-27 and Pumpkin Festival October 10-11 with more activities and vendors.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: Free
Hours for festival weekends will be 9-6.
Country Kids Pumpkin Patch
It’s worth the drive to Country Kids Patch in Hoyleton, Illinois for an array of activities on a budget. In addition to the u-pick patch, they have a huge corn maze with scavenger hunt, rock wall, rubber duck races, corn hole, pig races, giant slide, bounce ponies & house, life-size hi-ho cherry-o and candyland games, petting zoo, and so much more. They are also one of the few patch locations that has real restrooms in case you have a child that refuses to use a port a potty. They offer beverages for sale but no food. (You can bring your own.)
Address: 14758 Co Hwy 11, Hoyleton, IL
Dates: Country Kids opens for the season September 26 – late October
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sunday 10:30 a.m. to 5:30p.m. .
Admission: $8 per person for ages 1-99
DeMange Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
DeMange in St. Jacob offers an array of fall fun for the whole family. Admission includes the giant corn maze, a smaller kid sized maze, hay ride, bounce houses, corn pit, hayfort, refreshments, and photo spots. They also offer an “after dark” corn maze experience with different themes and special meet and greet characters on select dates.
Address: 1205 Cypress Rd, St Jacob, IL
Dates: Fall fun starts September 12th – late October
Hours: Opening weekend hours: Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4.
Normal weekend hours Saturdays 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Admission: 2025 prices: $8 ages 2-12, $5 ages 12+
After Dark admission is $10 with a glow maze Saturdays after 6 p.m. starting Sept 19
Eckert’s Farms
As the largest pick-your-own family-owned farm in the country, Eckert’s is well known around the St. Louis area. They have three area locations in Belleville, Grafton, and Millstadt. The Belleville and Grafton locations offer apple and pumpkin picking and a wagon ride. Weekends include the kid’s corral with rides, animals, and play area.
The Millstadt Farm is the place to be in the fall as their Family Fun Farm opens. On Wednesdays and Thursdays a variety of activities are available including a petting zoo, playground, straw pyramid, mini golf, tractor rides, and more. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays there is also a corn maze, inflatable jumping pillow, pig races, pumpkin cannon, go carts, food options, and live entertainment.
Belleville and Grafton hours: Picking available daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: Field access passes online are $4 on Mon-Fri, $6 on weekends. (Slightly more if purchased on site)
Select weekends also have Apple Fest and Octoberfest activities for additional fees.
They are offering a new apple pass this year at Belleville which includes field access, 4 Pick-Your-Own apples, 1 cider donut, and a cup of sweet cider for $18 online.
Millstadt Farm Hours: Wednesday & Thursday: 9am – 6pm
(Select activities open on Wed – Thurs, no concessions or live entertainment)
Friday & Saturday: 9am – 10pm. Sunday: 9am – 6pm
Admission: $4 online on Wednesdays & Thursdays $13.76 online or $15 on site on Fridays, and $19 on Saturdays and Sundays if purchased online, $22 in person. A family 4 pack of tickets for weekends is $60 online. Online reservations are recommended for weekends. (prices shown include online purchase fees)
Great Godfrey Corn Maze
The Godfrey Corn Maze is back this year in Godfrey, Illinois with a fun Inside Out theme for 2026. The maze is also open in the evenings but flashlights are required. In addition to the large corn maze, they also offers a free corn crib for play plus cow train, jumping pillow, and hay wagon for a fee.
Address: 1401 Stamper Lane, Godfrey, IL
Dates: Open September 18 – November 1
Hours: Friday 6 p.m.-10:00 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10:00 p.m., Sunday noon – 6:00 p.m.
Admission: $8/adults, $6 kids ages 6-11, free for kids 5 and under.
The evening haunted maze is an additional $2/person.
A combo ticket is available to include maze admission, and one ride each on the cow train, wagon, and jumping pillow for $13/adults and $11 for kids 6-11.
Greene Field Farms
When this sweet family could no longer afford to visit a pumpkin patch as a family, they created their own in Greenfield, Illinois. A whole lot of pumpkins, mums, and even more faith is what sustains Greene Field Farms. The patch features a huge variety of pumpkins, farm animals, straw bale tower, corn bin, roller slide, hay bale maze, giant sand box, games, and super cute photo spots.
Address: 311 Daum Station Rd., Greenfield, IL
Dates: Open weekends now through October 31.
Hours: Friday & Saturdays 10 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Sunday Noon-5:00pm,
Columbus Day 10 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Liberty Apple Orchard
Located in Edwardsville, Liberty Orchard is a family owned u-pick orchard with a large variety of apples. Don’t miss visiting the cute one-room schoolhouse on site that now acts as the farm store full of goodies like cider slushies.
Address: 8308 Kuhn Station Rd, Edwardsville, IL
Dates: Open for the season now through November.
Hours: Tuesday – Friday : 2 p.m.-5 p.m.,
Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 12-4:30 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Mills Apple Farm
Mills Apple Farm in Marine has apples, pumpkins, and farm fun. Activities include wagon rides, model train, u-pick apples, farm animals, and kids play area. Don’t miss the bakery and farm store for extra goodies.
Address: 11477 Pocahontas Rd, Marine, IL
Dates: Opens for the season now – November (Apple picking now, with pumpkins later on)
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday : 1 p.m.-5p.m.,
Sunday and Columbus Day: 10 a.m.-5p.m.
Admission: FREE
Pumpkin Blossom Hill
Pumpkin Blossom Hill is located just outside The small town of Red Bud. This fun farm has a corn pit, slides, corn maze, swings, tractor playground, Thomas the train, four-car train, and refreshments. Not only can you purchase pumpkins, but they also have a craft/antique store on site.
Address: 5483 IL-154, Red Bud, IL
Dates: Opens for the season September 13 – October 31
Hours: Monday – Friday (except Wed) : 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
but CLOSED on Wednesdays.
Admission: FREE Cash or check only accepted for purchases.
Relleke Pumpkin Patch
Relleke in Granite City has been a favorite for families and school groups for many years. Relleke has a large assortment of activities including a corn maze, hay rides, pony rides, bounce houses, pumpkin chucker, jungle maze, corn corral, sand art, haunted maze, pyramid slide, barrel train, kid sized carnival rides, paint your own pumpkin, and more.
Address: 519 Sand Prairie Road, Pontoon Beach, IL
Dates: Pumpkin sales are daily in late September with Fall Fun activities on weekends September 26-October 31.
Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Admission: Most entertainment is available only on weekends and Columbus Day. Some activities such as corn maze, corn pit, playground, and animals are available on weekdays for $7 armband admission.
Admission is free on weekends but you must purchase tickets for the activities which start at $1 each. Most activities require 2-4 tickets.
Rendleman Orchards
It’s worth the extra drive to Rendleman Orchards in southern Illinois. This beautiful family farm has not only a u-pick pumpkin patch, but also u-pick flower fields including sunflowers, mums, zinnias, and more. Their farmer market store offers apples, cider slushies, and plenty of other goodies and gifts. Rendleman always has the best photo ops to capture your orchard memories. Apples and flowers are available now with pumpkins soon.
Address: 9680 IL-127, Alto Pass, IL
Dates: Open now for the season until October 31st. , Pumpkin patch opens late September
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday: noon- 5 p.m.
Admission: Free admission to flower fields, pumpkin field details coming soon
Rinkel Farm
Rinkel Pumpkin Farm is an adorable pumpkin patch in Glen Carbon. If you are looking for something a little smaller where you can more easily keep an eye on your kids, this is a great place. They offer a corn maze, hay bale maze, farm animals to feed, giant slide, duck races, basketballs games, tractor playground, fun photo ops, and more.
Address: 2762 Old Troy Rd, Glen Carbon, IL
Dates: Rinkel pumpkin patch opens for the season Sept. 12
Hours: Friday 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday & Sundays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: $8 per person age 3 and up
Scharf Farm
Looking for a less busy family owned pumpkin patch and local produce? Check out Scharf Farm in Millstadt. During October, they offer a pumpkin patch, cornstalks, straw bales, and mums for all your fall decor needs. Kids will enjoy the chickens roaming around the scenic farm.
Address: 8132 IL-163, Millstadt, IL
Hours: Mon – Sat 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Stuckmeyer’s Plants and Produce
Stuckmeyer’s produce store is located between Columbia and Waterloo, Illinois. Each fall they set up a free kid play area next to their shop. There are inflatable bouncy slides and climbers, playground, hay fort, photo ops, games, and more. Pre-picked pumpkins, mums, and other goodies are available for purchase.
Address: 8940 Trolley Rd, Columbia, IL
Hours: Play area usually opens mid-Sept, Mon – Sat 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sun 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Admission: $5 for kids over age 2 for the play area. (Adults are free)
🎃Family-Friendly Fall and Halloween Events Near St. Louis
Looking for even more fall fun? St. Louis has plenty of special fall and Halloween events beyond pumpkin patches and apple picking. From underwater pumpkin carving to Halloween train rides, these family-friendly events are some of our favorites to add to your fall bucket list.
Pirates & Pumpkins at the St. Louis Aquarium
The Pirates & Pumpkins celebration transforms the St. Louis Aquarium into a pirate adventure for fall! Look for carved pumpkins throughout the Aquarium, explore a walk-through pirate ship, fire the cannons, meet roaming pirates, and watch divers battle it out in an underwater pumpkin-carving competition. All of the regular Pirates & Pumpkins activities are included with Aquarium admission.
Address: 201 S. 18th St., St. Louis, MO 63103
Dates and Hours: September 18-November 2, during regular Aquarium hours
Admission: Included with regular Aquarium admission
BOOterfly House
Things get a little creepy and crawly when the Butterfly House becomes the BOOterfly House for the month of October. Along with thousands of beautiful butterflies, visitors can meet creatures like scorpions and tarantulas, see carnivorous plants, and discover why these often misunderstood animals aren’t quite as scary as they seem.
Address: 15050 Faust Park Dr., Chesterfield, MO 63017
Dates and Hours: October 1-31, 2026; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: Included with regular Butterfly House admission; free for Missouri Botanical Garden members
Halloween Nights at Grant’s Farm
Celebrate Halloween after dark during Halloween Nights at Grant’s Farm. Take a Haunted Tram ride past Halloween lights, decorations, spooky scenes, and live actors before enjoying themed areas, a Halloween show, Monster Mash dance party, seasonal treats, and more. The event is designed to be family friendly, although some scenes may be a little spooky for very young children.
Address: 7385 Grant Rd., St. Louis, MO 63123
Dates and Hours: October 1-30, Thursdays and Sundays 5-9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 5-10 p.m.
Admission: $15 + tax per person; ages 3 and under free. Parking is $18
Fall Fest at Grant’s Farm
Enjoy cooler weather, fall colors, and plenty of family fun during Fall Fest at Grant’s Farm. The weekend celebration includes seasonal treats, fall photo spots, kid-friendly activities, a Fall Fest Kids Zone and Marketplace, plus all the animals and Clydesdales that make Grant’s Farm a St. Louis favorite.
Address: 7385 Grant Rd., St. Louis, MO 63123
Dates and Hours: Saturdays and Sundays October 3-31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; November 1-8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: Free general admission; parking is $18
Halloweenville & Jack-O-Lantern Express
Take a Halloween train ride through the land of Halloweenville at the American Farm Heritage Museum in Greenville, Illinois. The Jack-O-Lantern Express travels past friendly ghosts, skeletons, witches, and other Halloween scenes. This inexpensive event is geared toward all ages and especially younger kids who want Halloween fun without the scares. There is also a game area, pumpkins and food for purchase, and a small playground.
Address: 1395 Museum Ave., Greenville, IL 62246
Dates and Hours: Friday and Saturday nights in October, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Admission: $5 per person
Legends & Lanterns
Historic Main Street in St. Charles gets a Halloween makeover during Legends & Lanterns. Meet characters from history, folklore, and literature while exploring festive displays and activities throughout the historic district. You might encounter everyone from Edgar Allan Poe and Lizzie Borden to the Big Bad Wolf and Queen of Hearts.
Address: Historic Main Street, 230 S. Main St., St. Charles, MO 63301
Dates and Hours: October 10-11, 17-18 and 23-25, 2026. Saturdays 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sundays noon-5 p.m.; Friday Oct. 23, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday Oct. 24, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Admission: Free
Not-So-Haunted House at The Magic House
Kids can wear their costumes and enjoy Halloween without the scares during the Not-So-Haunted House at The Magic House. Children receive a trick-or-treat bag and autograph book before setting off to find trick-or-treat stations, meet favorite storybook characters, collect autographs, and complete a museum scavenger hunt.
Address: 516 S. Kirkwood Rd., Kirkwood, MO 63122
Dates and Hours: October 9-11, 16-18, 23-25 and 30-31, 2026. Fridays and Saturdays 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: Included with regular Magic House admission
Fright at the Museum at City Museum
City Museum gets even stranger during Fright at the Museum, an all-ages Halloween celebration filled with jack-o’-lanterns, skeletons, spiders, and spooky decorations. Weekend visits bring even more Halloween fun with wandering ghouls, Circus Harmony performances, not-so-spooky storytelling, the Odditorium, and other seasonal entertainment.
Address: 750 N. 16th St., St. Louis, MO 63103
Dates and Hours: September 30-November 1, 2026; during regular City Museum hours. Special entertainment times vary.
Admission: Included with general admission or a Member Pass, Rooftop access may require an additional ticket.
Jack’s Lighted Trail at Eckert’s
Thousands of glowing pumpkins and lights fill Eckert’s Belleville Farm during Jack’s Lighted Trail. Follow a lighted path through towering corn stalks to see larger-than-life pumpkin carvings, tunnels of lights, photo opportunities, and other Halloween displays. Seasonal food, cider, and treats are also available along the way.
Address: 951 S. Green Mount Rd., Belleville, IL 62220
Dates and Hours: Returning in fall 2026, dates and hours TBA
Admission: 2026 pricing TBA
Boo at the Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo’s popular Boo at the Zoo returns for another season of family-friendly Halloween fun. The evening event traditionally features festive decorations and Halloween activities throughout the Zoo without the scares of a traditional haunted attraction.
Address: 1 Government Dr., St. Louis, MO 63110
Dates and Hours: Returning in 2026, dates and hours TBA
Admission: 2026 pricing TBA
Trick-or-Track at the National Museum of Transportation
Wear your costume and celebrate Halloween surrounded by trains, planes, and automobiles during Trick-or-Track at the National Museum of Transportation. This family-friendly Halloween event includes trick-or-treating throughout the museum grounds along with the museum’s huge collection of historic trains and vehicles. It’s only offered for one day, but it’s such a unique St. Louis Halloween event that it’s worth adding to your fall calendar.
Address: 2933 Barrett Station Rd., St. Louis, MO 63122
Dates and Hours: October 17, 2026; 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: Regular museum admission; Adults $16, children ages 2-12 $8, seniors/military/first responders $14. Miniature train rides are an additional $7.
Jack O’Lantern Trail at Faust Park
Experience Faust Historic Village by the glow of jack-o’-lanterns during the Jack O’Lantern Trail at Faust Park. Kids can wear their costumes and trick-or-treat at the historic homes while enjoying Halloween decorations, games, and activities. Admission also includes a ride on the historic St. Louis Carousel and a chance to explore the Butterfly House after dark.
Address: 15025 Faust Park Dr., Chesterfield, MO 63017
Dates and Hours: October 23-24, Friday 6-8 p.m. and Saturday 5-8 p.m.
Admission: $12 per person ages 2 and older; children under 2 are free. Advance registration is required.
Wabash, Frisco & Pacific Railroad
Take a miniature train ride through the woods along the Meramec River aboard the Wabash, Frisco & Pacific Railroad in Wildwood. The volunteer-run railroad operates 12-inch-gauge trains along a two-mile route on Sundays, with rides lasting about 40 minutes. In October, they also have a one day special Pumpkin Train ride on Saturday, October 10 with a chance to ride the train and pick a pumpkin.
Address: 155 Grand Ave., Glencoe, MO 63038
Dates and Hours: Sundays through October 25 plus Saturday October 10
Admission: $6 per person, purchase tickets online
🍂 Family-Friendly Fall Hikes Near St. Louis
Cooler temperatures and colorful leaves make fall one of our favorite times to hit the trails around St. Louis! You don’t have to travel far to find beautiful fall scenery either. From paved paths perfect for little legs to trails with bridges, giant rocks, river views, and colorful forests, these family-friendly fall hikes offer something for every age and ability.
Rock Hollow Trail & Al Foster Trail
Rock Hollow Trail is one of our favorite family-friendly fall hikes near St. Louis. The paved trail winds downhill through a wooded valley and crosses several wooden bridges before connecting with the mostly flat Al Foster Trail. You can easily turn around whenever you’re ready, making this a great option for families who don’t want to hike the entire trail.
Address: 777 Ridge Rd., Wildwood, MO 63021 (parking at the Ridge Meadows Elementary School)
Hours: 5 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
Distance: Rock Hollow Trail is 2.3 miles one way to where it intersects with the Al Forest Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Lone Wolf Trail at Castlewood State Park
For beautiful fall views close to St. Louis, hike the Lone Wolf Trail at Castlewood State Park. This adventurous loop climbs to the bluffs above the Meramec River before descending through wooded hillsides and following Kiefer Creek back toward the trailhead. There are steep sections, rocks, and roots, so this trail is best for older kids or experienced young hikers. Use caution with kids near the bluff edges
Address: 1401 Kiefer Creek Rd., Ballwin, MO 63021
Hours: 7 a.m. to one half hour after sunset
Distance: 1.7-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Trail Amongst the Trees at Rockwoods Reservation
Rockwoods Reservation feels surprisingly wild for being right in St. Louis County. Trail Amongst the Trees winds through a beautiful hardwood forest with rocky terrain, hills, and plenty of fall color. Part of the trail is currently closed, so be sure to check current trail conditions before your visit.
Address: 2751 Glencoe Rd., Wildwood, MO 63038
Hours: Sunrise to ½ hour after sunset
Distance: 1.5 miles when the entire trail is open
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Cliff Cave Park
Cliff Cave Park is a great option for families looking for an easy fall walk with beautiful Mississippi River scenery. Paved trails wind through the woods and across a long pedestrian bridge, while the bluff-top overlook offers sweeping views over the river valley. With several trail options, you can make your visit as short or long as you’d like.
Address: 806 Cliff Cave Rd., St. Louis, MO 63129
Hours: Approximately 7 a.m. to half hour hour after sunset
Distance: Multiple options
Difficulty: Easy
Kennedy Forest at Forest Park
Escape into the woods without leaving the city at Forest Park. The Kennedy Forest area has natural-surface trails winding beneath mature trees that are especially beautiful in fall. Combine a short walk through the woods with Art Hill, the Grand Basin, or one of Forest Park’s free attractions for a full family day.
Address: Forest Park, St. Louis, MO 63112
Hours: 6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
Distance: Multiple short trails, can walk as little or long as you wish
Difficulty: Easy
Babler State Park
The wooded hills of Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park are beautiful when the leaves begin to change. The Virginia Day Memorial Nature Trail is a good choice for families, with a shorter loop available for little legs. We also enjoy the Dogwood Trail with stunning fall foliage. After your hike, take a drive through the park’s winding roads to enjoy even more fall color and stop in the visitor center for animals and exhibits.
Address: 800 Guy Park Dr., Wildwood, MO 63005
Hours: April through October: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, November through March:7 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily
Visitor Center: November and March 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April through October: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday
Distance: About 0.5 mile for the short loop, 1.5 miles for the full trail on Virginia Day Trail, 2 miles on Dogwood Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Elephant Rocks State Park
Giant pink granite boulders make Elephant Rocks State Park one of the most fun fall hikes for kids. Follow the paved Braille Trail through the heart of the massive rocks, where kids can climb, squeeze between boulders, and explore. An optional spur also leads to the ruins of a historic railroad engine house. This park is worth the drive!
Address: 7406 Highway 21, Belleview, MO 63623
Hours: Sept. 1 through Sept. 30: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Oct. 1 through Oct. 31: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Nov. 1 through Feb. 28: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Distance: About 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
The Nature Institute Olin Nature Preserve
The John M. Olin Nature Preserve is a hidden gem for fall hiking on the Illinois side of St. Louis. The short Frog Trail is a great choice for families and travels through beautiful woods near the preserve’s ponds. Families with older kids can also explore the longer trails leading toward the Mississippi River bluffs and Beaver Falls.
Address: 2213 S. Levis Ln., Godfrey, IL 62035
Hours: Dawn to dusk; preserve trails are generally open April-December
Distance: Various trails from 0.5 mile paved to 3 mile more rugged loop
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is one of our favorite options for young hikers. All three trails are paved and wind through a beautiful oak-hickory forest. The short Tanglevine Trail is perfect for little legs while the Broken Ridge is my personal fall favorite. Don’t miss heading inside the free nature center afterward to explore the adorable and interactive exhibits.
Address: 11715 Cragwold Rd., Kirkwood, MO 63122
Hours: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily for the trails. The nature center is open 8-5 and closed Sundays and Mondays.
Distance: Various trails from 0.3 to 1.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Klondike Park
Bright white cliffs, a blue-green quarry lake, and colorful trees make Klondike Park one of the most unique places for a fall walk near St. Louis. Families can take an easy walk around the lake or explore additional trails for views over the Missouri River. It’s also an easy stop to add to a fall drive along Highway 94.
Address: 4600 Highway 94 S., Augusta, MO 63332
Hours: 7 a.m. to half hour hour after sunset
Distance: Multiple trails; shorter routes around the lake are available
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
🍂 Fall Drives and Day Trips from St. Louis
Pumpkin patches aren’t the only way to enjoy fall around St. Louis. Once the leaves begin to change, it’s the perfect time to hit the road for a scenic drive or fall day trip. The St. Louis area is surrounded by beautiful state parks, river roads, charming small towns, and scenic overlooks that really come alive with fall color. Peak color varies each year, but we typically see the best fall foliage around St. Louis from mid to late October.
Great River Road and Grafton
One of our favorite fall drives is the Great River Road from Alton to Grafton. Highway 100 winds between the Mississippi River and towering limestone bluffs covered in fall color. Make a quick detour through the charming village of Elsah before continuing to Grafton. Ride the Grafton SkyTour for a view of the colors from above or continue to Pere Marquette State Park for hiking, scenic overlooks, and a beautiful drive through the park.
Highway 94 and Missouri Wine Country
You don’t have to visit a winery to enjoy the beautiful scenery along Highway 94. Follow the highway west through Defiance and Augusta for rolling hills, colorful trees, and charming small towns. Stop at Klondike Park for a walk around the lake before continuing to Washington and returning toward St. Louis along scenic Highway 100. Take a detour through Babler State Park some more leaf peeping or a short hike.
Highway 21 and Arcadia Valley
Head south on Highway 21 for a full fall day trip filled with beautiful scenery. Stop at Sandy Creek Covered Bridge before continuing toward the Arcadia Valley. Elephant Rocks State Park, Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, Taum Sauk Mountain, and nearby Millstream Gardens are all incredible places to enjoy fall color.
Bluff Road in Illinois
For a beautiful drive close to St. Louis, follow Bluff Road south from Columbia, Illinois. The road winds beneath towering limestone bluffs and through the Mississippi River floodplain. Make a detour through tiny historic Mayestown, visit Fort de Chartres, or continue to Red Bud for a full fall day trip.
Highway 79 to Hannibal
Follow Highway 79 north from St. Charles County through rolling farmland and along the Mississippi River. Stop in the river towns of Clarksville and Louisiana before continuing north to Hannibal. Once in Hannibal, enjoy panoramic views from Lover’s Leap or take a fall walk through Sodalis Nature Preserve.
Lone Elk Park
If you don’t have time for a full day trip, Lone Elk Park is one of the easiest places near St. Louis to enjoy fall colors without even leaving your car. The winding road through the park is especially beautiful when the leaves change, and you can look for elk and bison along the way. Add neighboring World Bird Sanctuary to make a longer outing.
Find More Fall Color Drives Near St. Louis
These are only a few of our favorite places to enjoy fall foliage! We’ve put together a complete guide to 7 Great St. Louis Fall Color Drives with detailed routes, scenic stops, hikes, and more ideas for a beautiful fall road trip.
Do you have a favorite patch or fall event that should be added to the list? Feel free to drop a comment or contact us at midwestnomadfamily@gmail.com
