Fall in central Ohio is such a magical time of year. The crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy traditions make it the perfect season for family adventures. One of the most beloved fall activities is visiting a pumpkin patch. Whether you’re searching for “pumpkin patches near me” or planning a weekend outing, the Columbus area is home to some of the best farms where you can pick pumpkins, sip cider, and enjoy hayrides with your kids.
As a Columbus, Ohio family photographer, I love capturing families at these locations — many of which double as incredible backdrops for seasonal photos. Below are the 10 best pumpkin patches near Columbus, Ohio that families adore.
Van Buren Acres is one of the most popular fall destinations east of Columbus. Their pumpkin patch is huge, and families can spend the entire day enjoying hayrides, a giant corn maze, barnyard animals, and unique photo opportunities.
Kids love the pedal carts and giant slides, while parents appreciate the variety of pumpkins and gourds available for purchase. The farm is set up with plenty of photo spots, which makes it perfect if you want a seasonal picture for your family album. Check it out here.
For decades, Pigeon Roost Farm has been a fall favorite in the Columbus area. Their Great Pumpkin Fun Center is packed with seasonal activities, including giant slides, corn mazes, obstacle courses, and a large play area for younger children.
The pumpkin patch is full of variety, and families also love browsing their craft barn and farm market for unique fall décor. If you’re looking for a place that mixes tradition with plenty of entertainment, Pigeon Roost is worth the drive. Check out more here!
If your family loves adventure, Leeds Farm is the place to be. This farm is famous for going above and beyond with activities. From zip lines and pumpkin jumpers to pedal carts, corn boxes, and hayrides, Leeds Farm is essentially a giant playground for kids.
Of course, they also offer beautiful pumpkins and gourds to take home, but the real draw is how much fun the kids will have. Many families spend hours here and still don’t experience everything. It’s a fantastic place to make a full-day fall memory. Check it out here.
Circle S Farms is a convenient option for families who want to stay close to Columbus while still enjoying that small-town farm feel. They are especially popular for school field trips, so kids are always excited to go back with their families.
Circle S offers hayrides to the pumpkin patch, a barnyard play area, sunflower fields earlier in the season, and their famous pumpkin donuts and apple cider. Their market also offers fall flowers and produce, so you can take home a little taste of autumn. Check it out here.
If you want a calmer, more traditional pumpkin patch experience, head to Lohstroh Family Farms in Lancaster. This family-run farm provides pumpkins, gourds, mums, and fresh produce in a laid-back setting.
Families enjoy walking the fields, picking pumpkins, and supporting a true local farm. There may not be dozens of attractions, but sometimes the simplicity is what makes the day memorable. Check out more here.
Hidden Creek Farms in Sunbury is a family-owned farm that offers a fun and festive fall atmosphere. Their pumpkin patch is full of variety, and kids love the hayrides, corn maze, and farm animals. They also host special events throughout the season, including food trucks, live music, and craft vendors, making it a well-rounded fall experience.
Families appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the chance to support a local business while enjoying seasonal traditions. It’s a great alternative if you’re looking for a new farm to visit outside the usual big-name spots. Check out more here.
Located southeast of Columbus, Shady Brook Farm is a charming hidden gem. It’s not as large as some of the other farms, but it has everything you need for a cozy fall outing: hayrides, pumpkins, and family-friendly activities.
Parents especially love the smaller scale, since it’s easier to keep track of young kids while still having plenty of festive fun. Check out more here.
The Patch on 37 is a seasonal destination full of charm. Their pumpkin patch features both traditional orange pumpkins and unique varieties in different shapes and colors. Families also enjoy the hayrides, photo stations, and market filled with local goods.
It’s a great middle-sized farm — big enough to feel like an event, but not so large that it’s overwhelming. Check out more here.
Another Lancaster favorite, Sharp Farms offers hayrides, a pumpkin patch, and plenty of seasonal produce. Families love the homey feel, and supporting a small, local farm adds to the experience.
Sharp Farms is especially great if you want to avoid the big-farm crowds but still enjoy pumpkin picking and hayrides. It’s authentic, affordable, and the perfect place to teach kids about farming and harvest traditions. Check out more here.
If you want the ultimate fall festival experience, head to Lehner’s Pumpkin Farm in Radnor, just north of Columbus. This is one of the biggest pumpkin patches in the region, offering an endless list of activities: corn mazes, pumpkin picking, play areas, hayrides, and seasonal food.
It’s the type of place you can spend the entire day exploring. Families especially love the themed weekends and special events, which make it feel like a fall carnival. Check out more here.
Arrive early or visit on weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds.
Dress in layers — Ohio fall weather can change quickly.
Bring cash — some smaller farms don’t accept cards.
Pack snacks and water if you’re staying all day.
Don’t forget your camera — pumpkin patches make the perfect backdrop for family photos.
Pumpkin patches near Columbus, Ohio aren’t just about pumpkins — they’re about traditions, laughter, and connection. Whether you’re wandering through a corn maze, sipping warm cider, or capturing your family’s joy on camera, these farms offer the perfect way to celebrate autumn.
As a Columbus, Ohio family photographer, I love helping families document these special moments. If you’d like timeless, heartfelt portraits this season, reach out to me at Whispy Shades Photography. Let’s capture your family’s story against the beauty of Ohio in the fall.