Definitive Guide to Pumpkin Patches in Sonoma County (2025 Edition)

Autumn in Sonoma County arrives with rustling vineyards and family farms transforming into pumpkin wonderlands. From Petaluma to Healdsburg, local patches offer more than just pumpkins – think sprawling corn mazes, tractor hayrides, petting zoos, and hot apple cider under the oaks. For San Francisco Bay Area parents, a fall day trip to Sonoma means wholesome fun and festive photo ops galore. In this definitive guide, we'll share details on the most popular pumpkin patches and share some smaller gems worth visiting. Grab your sweaters and pumpkin-spiced snacks – let’s explore Sonoma County’s pumpkin patch paradise!

Sonoma County’s Top Pumpkin Patches (2025 Season)

Below are detailed profiles of 8 favorite pumpkin patches across Sonoma County. Each vignette includes operating history, 2025 hours, pricing, attractions, amenities, and tips – so you can pick the perfect patch for your family.

Petaluma Pumpkin Patch (Petaluma)

Operating since: 1993 – Farmer Jim Groverman’s patch has been a fall tradition for over 30 years.

• 2025 Season: Open Sept 19 – Nov 1, 2025. Hours: Sun–Thu 10 am–6 pm; Fri–Sat 10 am–10 pm (night maze on Fri–Sat).
• Pricing:
  • Admission: Free general entry and parking.
  • Corn maze: $8 per person (kids 5 and under free) by day, rising to $12 on Fri–Sat nights.
  • Activities: Pony rides, petting barn, and carnival games priced per ride (cash recommended; ATM on-site).
• Activities & Amenities: Features a legendary 4-acre corn maze (with lookout platform), a mini maze for little ones, hay bale pyramid, petting zoo, pony rides, jumbo slides, jump houses, and over 50 varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds grown on-site. On weekends, local vendors sell fresh kettle corn, barbecue, and other treats. Picnic tables and portable restrooms are available for family convenience.
• Accessibility & Crowds: The patch is stroller-friendly (flat dirt paths) but can get very busy on October weekends. For a calmer experience, visit on a weekday or early morning. Wear closed-toe shoes – fields can be dusty or muddy.
• Parking: Free parking in an adjacent field; attendants direct cars on peak days. Arrive early for closest spots.
• Pet & Photo Policy: No dogs or pets allowed on the farm (service animals excepted). Casual family photos are welcome – there are plenty of cute photo-op backdrops like cut-out boards and pumpkin displays. (Professional photographers must get permission in advance.)

Parent summary: A huge, activity-packed patch perfect for an all-day outing. Kids can burn energy in the maze and bounce houses while parents enjoy the festive farm vibe. It’s a one-stop shop for pumpkins, fun, and fall memories.

Official link: Petaluma Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze

Mickelson Pumpkin Patch (Petaluma)

Operating since: 2021 – A newer patch run by the Mickelson family (who also operate a Christmas tree farm). In just a few years it’s become a must-visit for South Sonoma County families.

• 2025 Season: Open Sept 20 – Nov 2, 2025. Hours: Sun–Thu 9 am–8 pm; Fri–Sat 9 am–10 pm (open late for evening fun).
• Pricing:
  • Admission: Free on weekdays; $3 per person on Saturdays and Sundays. Kids under 2 enter free.
    • Attractions: Activity prices vary – most games and rides cost a few dollars each, or up to ~$30 for all-access combos.
    • Parking is free.
• Activities & Amenities: Mickelson offers an impressive spread of attractions on its spacious ranch. Highlights include a huge hay maze and hay pyramid, grain train rides, an apple cannon, paintball gallery, pumpkin slingshots, petting zoo with farm animals, cornhole and giant Jenga games, a super slide, and bounce house zone. There’s a pumpkin patch with traditional and specialty pumpkins (they grow many on-site) and the famous “Large Marge” giant pumpkins for jack-o’-lantern carving. Food trucks and snack vendors are on-site selling funnel cakes, kettle corn, corn dogs, caramel apples, and even craft beer for adults. Portable toilets and hand-wash stations are available.
• Accessibility & Tips: The grounds are mostly flat grass and dirt – easy for sturdy strollers and wagons. Weekends can be crowded; consider a weekday visit for more elbow room (and free entry). Shaded picnic tables make it easy to take breaks with littles.
• Parking: A free gravel/field parking lot is provided at the patch entrance. It’s just off Hwy 101 (exit 472A), so access is convenientmarinmommies.com. Expect traffic at peak times; arriving right at opening can help.
• Pet & Photo Policy: Pets are not officially allowed (to keep the farm animals safe), so leave furry friends at home. Mickelson encourages family photos and has fun decor for backdrops; professional photographers should inquire via their website about off-hour sessions (they offer scheduled sessions for portrait shoots).

Parent summary: A carnival-like pumpkin patch with something for everyone. Mickelson’s combines farm charm with fair-style games, making it ideal for school-age kids who want more than just pumpkins. Parents appreciate the on-site food and even a beer tent – a true Wine Country twist on the pumpkin patch experience!

Official link: Mickelson Pumpkin Patch

Pronzini Farms Pumpkin Patch (Petaluma)

Operating since: 1963 – The Pronzini family has farmed in Petaluma for decades (famous for their Christmas tree farm). Their pumpkin patch carries on that legacy of family farming fun.

• 2025 Season: Open Sept 27 – Oct 31, 2025. Hours: Mon–Thu 11 am–6 pm; Fri–Sun 10 am–6:30 pm; closes early at 4 pm on Halloween.
• Pricing:
  • Admission: Weekdays $5 per adult (kids 12 and under free), Weekends $10 per adult and $5 per child (age 2–12). Children under 2 are free. Admission includes many activities.
  • Attractions: Included with admission are the corn kernel sensory pit, hay maze and pyramid, petting zoo, and Western ghost town. Punch cards ($30–$100 range) can be purchased for premium attractions like the Haunted Trail hayride and big inflatables. Fright Night guided tours of the haunted village run every Fri–Sat in October (7–10 pm) for $20 per person (recommended 12+ age).
  • Parking is free.
• Activities & Amenities: Pronzini’s pumpkin patch offers a mix of classic fun and spooky thrills. By day, families can enjoy hay wagon rides, a hay bale tower to climb, giant slides and bounce houses, a petting zoo, steer-roping toss game, and a unique Haunted Western Village to explore. Come evening, the Haunted Trail comes alive with ghosts and surprises on a tractor-driven tour around the ranch. The pumpkin selection is excellent – a huge variety in a scenic rural setting dotted with vintage tractors and decor. On weekends, Sax’s Joint (a popular local diner) sets up on-site serving BBQ, sandwiches, and treats, and there’s live music on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Picnic tables are available, and restrooms are portable toilets.
• Accessibility & Tips: The patch is spread out over a farm field – bring a stroller or wagon for little ones to navigate the pumpkin fields. It’s a good idea to bring cash for food and extra attractions, though credit is accepted for admission. If your kids love a bit of scare, schedule your visit around an evening Fright Night (it’s a safe, PG-13 style spook). For younger kids, daytime is best – plenty of gentle fun without the scares.
• Parking: Plenty of free parking in dirt lots on the farm property. Even on busy weekends, space is ample (Pronzini is located a bit off the beaten path, so traffic is manageable).
• Pet Policy: Leashed dogs are welcome at Pronzini’s patch – one of the few pumpkin patches in the area to allow pets. Just be mindful of the farm animals and clean up after your pup.
• Photo Ops: The farm’s vintage trucks, giant pumpkin props, and autumn displays make great backdrops. Photography is encouraged; for professional shoots, it’s best to call ahead, but casual snapshots of the kids are a must-do (especially with the funny scarecrows and the big pumpkin carriage on site!).

Parent summary: A Petaluma favorite that offers “pumpkins plus”. Pronzini’s has a friendly, down-home vibe by day with lots for little kids, and a few thrills for older kids at night. It’s an all-ages crowd-pleaser – you might leave with pumpkins and a Christmas tree reservation for December!

Official link: Pronzini Farms Pumpkin Patch

Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch (Santa Rosa)

Operating since: mid-2010s – This relatively new patch quickly became the go-to field trip spot for Sonoma County schools. It’s a large-scale, seasonal operation that pops up each fall on Stony Point Road.

• 2025 Season: Open Sept 27 – Oct 31, 2025. Hours: Mon–Thu 11 am–7 pm; Fri 11 am–9 pm; Sat 9 am–9 pm; Sun 9 am–8 pm. (Closes early at 6 pm on Halloween.)
• Pricing:
  • General Admission: $5 “Pumpkin Patch Pass” per person (kids 2 and under free). This basic pass includes entry and a bundle of free activities (petting zoo, hay pyramid, corn kernel play box, barnyard ball toss, etc.).
  • Upgraded Passes: $20 “Farm Pass” for unlimited jumpy pillow and inflatables; $30 “Farm Pass Plus” for all activities including the big corn maze, hayride or cow train, and 3 shots at the pumpkin blaster cannon.
  • Alternatively, a standalone Corn Maze pass is $15. Pony rides, “walk on water” bubble balls, and bungee trampoline are offered for ~$15 each or separately from the passes.
  • Pumpkins are sold by size; as a rough guide, mid-size pumpkins run $8–$15.
  • Parking is free.
• Activities & Amenities: Ten acres of pumpkins and a massive 8-acre corn maze set the scene for this patch. Included with general admission are family favorites: a petting zoo with barnyard animals, a hay-bale pyramid to climb, pumpkin tetherball, a tire swing farm playground, corn hole and pumpkin tic-tac-toe games, and a giant corn kernel sand-box for toddlers. Upgrade passes add on the adrenaline: unlimited bouncing on the giant jumping pillow, zooming down a 24-foot inflatable slide, and access to the pumpkin blasters, hay rides out to the pumpkin fields, and a cow train ride through the grounds. There’s also a bungee trampoline and giant bubble rollers on water for extra fees. Multiple food stands and food trucks are on-site (weekends have the widest selection) serving items like corn dogs, BBQ, shaved ice, and hot cocoa. A shaded picnic tent and plenty of open-air tables make it easy to snack or lunch. For convenience, there are portable restrooms, a baby changing station area, and even hand sanitizer stations throughout.
• Accessibility & Tips: The patch is expansive – be prepared to walk a lot (wear comfy shoes). Strollers are welcome and can navigate the wide dirt pathways (though the ground can be bumpy in spots). If you have toddlers, consider a wagon to tote pumpkins and kids. This patch can handle crowds, but weekends in October are extremely popular (think festival-level crowds by afternoon). For a more relaxed visit, try a weekday or early on a weekend morning. Also, because the corn maze closes 45 minutes before closing time, start the maze early if it’s on your to-do list (it can take 30–60 minutes).
• Parking: Free and plentiful – a large dirt parking lot is available right at the patch (located at the intersection of Stony Point Rd and Rohnert Park Expy). Even when the lot fills, staff will direct you to overflow parking along the field edges. Tip: on peak days, avoid arriving right at midday to skip the brief parking queue.
• Pet & Photo Policy: No pets allowed (please leave dogs at home) for the safety of guests and farm animals. However, there are tons of photo opportunities: rustic wagons loaded with pumpkins, cut-out characters, sunflowers, and even a vintage tractor kids can sit on. Feel free to snap away – staff members often roam to help families take group photos. Professional photography sessions are sometimes held on weekday evenings by appointment (contact the patch if interested in renting the space for a shoot).

Parent summary: The region’s “pumpkin theme park” that truly has it all. Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch is a one-stop fall extravaganza – big corn maze, big pumpkins, big fun. It’s perfect for families with mixed ages: toddlers love the petting zoo and play areas, while older kids go crazy for the blasters and enormous jump pillow. Plan to spend a good half-day here to soak in all the activities!

Official link: Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch

Muelrath Ranches Pumpkin Patch (Santa Rosa)

Operating since: 1936 (family farm) – The Muelrath family started in Sonoma as dairy farmers in the 1930s and added their Santa Rosa pumpkin patch in 1946. Generations later, Bob and Audrey Muelrath continue to welcome visitors to their historic farm.

• 2025 Season: Open daily Sept 27 – Oct 31, 2025, 10 am–6 pm every day (rain or shine).
• Pricing: Free admission to all activities with the purchase of any pumpkin (honor system). All pumpkins are sold by weight at $1 per pound. In practice, there’s no entry fee – visitors are simply asked to buy a pumpkin to support the farm. No parking fee either.
• Activities & Amenities: Muelrath’s is beloved for its old-fashioned, family-friendly fun in a beautiful farm setting. Included with your visit are hay rides around the farm (narrated by Farmer Bob, who shares tidbits about the crops), a straw-bale pyramid for kids to climb, a “haunted dungeon” (a fun walk-through barn with silly-spooky scenes), and even a mini corn maze perfect for toddlers. Little ones also enjoy the antique tractors on display – great for climbing and pretend-driving. A picnic area is available under the oak trees; families are encouraged to bring lunch and make a day of it. Muelrath’s grows over 20 varieties of pumpkins, gourds, and squash (all pesticide-free and sustainably farmed on-site, so the patch is bursting with unique colors and shapes to discover. Refreshments: Simple farm treats like cold apple cider, bottled water, and soda are sold, as well as local honey and fall decor items (corn stalks, ornamental corn, hay bales). Portable restrooms are on-site, and there’s a hand-washing station by the petting area. (Note: After a hiatus in recent years, the Muelraths are back in full swing – 2025 marks a happy return, so expect a warm welcome!)
• Accessibility & Tips: This is a real working farm – expect uneven ground, grassy fields, and maybe a muddy patch if it rained. Strollers with big wheels can manage, but a carrier for infants might be easier when wandering the pumpkin fields. The vibe here is relaxed and not overly crowded, even on weekends, thanks to the farm’s spacious layout. Don’t miss: the “Pumpkin Slingshot” where you can fling a mini pumpkin at targets (a free activity that kids find endlessly entertaining). If you visit on Oct 18–19 (2025), you’ll catch the special display of antique gas engines and tractors from a local club, adding extra charm.
• Parking: Free parking is available along the farm’s driveway and an open field. It’s a bit of a narrow country road to reach the patch, so drive slowly and watch for farm traffic. Generally, parking is easy and close to the pumpkin action.
• Pet Policy: No dogs are allowed on normal days (this is a livestock farm). However, in a fun twist, Muelrath’s hosts occasional “Pups at the Patch” fundraising events where leashed dogs are invited for an afternoon of doggie costume contests and pumpkin picking. Unless you see an event advertised, assume you should leave pets at home.
• Photo Ops: This farm is extremely picturesque – golden pumpkins against green fields, old red barns, and a vintage tractor with a “MUELRATH RANCH” sign that makes a classic photo spot. The staff even set up a few photo vignettes (like a giant pumpkin frame) for families to use. Because it’s less crowded, sunset at Muelrath’s is prime time for beautiful family photos with that warm autumn light. Photographers are welcome; just be mindful of not disturbing other visitors or the plants.

Parent summary: A genuine farm experience with a hearty welcome. Muelrath Ranches is perfect for young kids – low-key, no lines or loud music, just pure farm fun. Parents love that one pumpkin purchase opens up a day of free activities. It’s an affordable, laid-back outing where you’ll leave with happy kids and a trunk full of pumpkins, gourds, and maybe sunflowers too.

Official link: Muelrath’s Pumpkin Patch

Punky’s Pumpkins (Santa Rosa)

Operating since: 1995 – “Pumpkin Mike” Gutzman and family have run this hometown patch for 30 years. Many local parents visited Punky’s as kids and now bring their own children, keeping the tradition alive.

• 2025 Season: Open Oct 1 – Oct 31, 2025. Hours: Mon–Fri 11 am–9 pm; Sat–Sun 9 am–9 pm. (Earlier in the season, they may close a bit before dark on quiet nights.) Located at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, north Santa Rosa.
• Pricing:
  • Admission: Free to enter and roam. Punky’s does not charge a gate fee – you pay for whatever activities or pumpkins you choose.
  • Activities: Hay rides and train rides are a few dollars each; bounce houses and the giant inflatable slide also require tickets (or an optional ~$20 unlimited wristband, which many families opt for to let kids play freely). Pumpkins are reasonably priced by size (the Gutzmans pride themselves on family-friendly prices, often lower than bigger commercial patches).
  • Parking is free in the center’s lot.
• Activities & Amenities: True to its friendly roots, Punky’s offers classic pumpkin patch fun on a more modest scale – perfect for younger children. Attractions include a “Johnny Popper” tractor hayride that putters around the pumpkin field, a cute barrel train ride for kids, a bounce house and a 30-foot inflatable slide, and a corn kernel pit to dig in. Throughout the patch you’ll find whimsical cartoon character billboards (think Peanuts and Disney characters with pumpkin themes) that are great for photo ops. Of course, there are rows and rows of pumpkins (Punky’s grows many of their own on a 20-acre farm and brings them to this site) – including big jack-o’-lantern pumpkins, specialty gourds, and even some giant show pumpkins to marvel at. On weekends, treat stands appear: cotton candy, snow cones, and fresh-squeezed lemonade are favorites. Families are welcome to bring a picnic – Punky’s provides picnic tables where you can sit and enjoy lunch or a snack between activities. Restrooms are available inside the Luther Burbank Center (just a short walk, with real bathrooms and changing tables), plus portable toilets closer to the patch during peak weekends.
• Accessibility & Tips: The patch is set up on a flat gravel lot, making it very stroller-friendly and accessible for all abilities. Because it’s not as sprawling as some patches, you can keep a close eye on multiple kids at once. Plan for about 1–2 hours here: that’s usually enough for a hayride, some bounce time, and picking the perfect pumpkin. If you come in the evening, bring a jacket – Santa Rosa nights get chilly in October, but Punky’s is well-lit for a post-dinner pumpkin run (kids love the patch under the lights). Pro tip: Punky’s often partners with local schools and does charity promotions; check their Facebook for any “Kids eat free” coupon tie-ins or special event days.
• Parking: Abundant (and free) paved parking at the Luther Burbank Center lot. Even on the busiest Saturday, you’ll find a space without trouble – just follow the signs and the giant pumpkin inflatable that beckons you in.
• Pet & Photo Policy: Only service animals are allowed on site. The patch can get crowded with excited kiddos, so it’s best not to have pets anyway. For photos, Punky’s is a delight – the proprietors actually set up those cartoon billboards and cute displays exactly so families can take memorable pictures. Feel free to snap away! If you post on social media, give “Pumpkin Mike” a shout-out – the community vibe is strong and they love seeing families enjoying the patch. Professional photographers sometimes use Punky’s for mini-sessions (contact the Gutzmans for permission if you plan a client shoot).

Parent summary: A charming, low-key patch that’s big on heart. Punky’s Pumpkins offers affordable fun for little ones in a safe, contained setting. There’s a reason it’s been a Santa Rosa staple for generations: it’s simple joy – pumpkins, a hayride, a few giggles on the slide, and a snow cone to top it off. Perfect for a first pumpkin patch experience or an easy afternoon outing.

Official link: Punky’s Pumpkins

Grandma’s Pumpkin Patch (Healdsburg)

Operating since: Late 1990s – Yes, there really is a Grandma! This patch has been owned and operated by “Grandma” Ethel and family for over 25 years, making it a beloved fall fixture in northern Sonoma County.

• 2025 Season: Open Sept 25 – Oct 31, 2025, daily 10 am – 6 pm (dusk). Location: Grandma’s farm on Healdsburg Avenue, just south of downtown Healdsburg. No reservations needed.
• Pricing:
  • Admission: Free – no entrance fee and no parking fee (Grandma firmly believes in affordable family fun). All activities on-site are free; you just pay for pumpkins (priced by size) or any items from the farm boutique. Cash is appreciated for purchases.
• Activities & Amenities: Visiting Grandma’s Pumpkin Patch feels like visiting a kindly relative’s farm brimming with kid-friendly fun. The patch features a petting barn with bunnies and baby chicks (and sometimes Molly the milk cow or a big pig named Chocolate). There’s a hay stack pyramid to climb and a mini hay maze for little explorers. An old red tractor and vintage farm wagons are parked for kids to climb on and let imaginations roam. One corner of the patch is set up as a “Kidland” play area: think hula hoops, a giant parachute for kids to play under, and even supplies for making macaroni noodle necklaces – a sweet tradition where every child making their first Halloween gets to take home a free handmade macaroni necklace or bib. You’ll find a charming farm stand, Handmade With Love, selling home-crafted goods like pot holders, aprons, jams, and seasonal decor. Fresh popcorn, cookies, and apple cider are often available for purchase as simple refreshments (and yes, Grandma’s donuts on certain days!). For parents, the relaxed picnic area under the trees is a highlight – you can actually sit and watch your kids play in the open space without crowds. Facilities include portable toilets and an outdoor sink, and there’s a baby changing table available on request (just ask Grandma or one of the friendly staff).
• Accessibility & Tips: The patch is set on a level grassy field – very easy for strollers and toddlers to navigate. Because it’s smaller and off the beaten path, it tends to be uncrowded on weekdays, making it a perfect outing for preschoolers or a playdate meetup. Even on weekends, the atmosphere stays mellow and neighborly. Keep an eye on Grandma’s Facebook page for special happenings – in past years they’ve done a costume day parade and even story time with Grandma. If you have a baby, mention if it’s their first Halloween – Grandma loves to dote on the littlest visitors with that free bib tradition. This patch is also an excellent choice if you have a mixed-age group and want to avoid overstimulation; older kids can help younger ones through the hay maze or feed the animals in a calm setting.
• Parking: The patch has its own small gravel parking area right by the entrance, plus overflow parking along the farm’s driveway. Since admission is capped by daylight hours (closes at dusk), there’s usually plenty of parking turnover. It’s easy in and out – just be cautious backing out onto Healdsburg Ave.
• Pet Policy: While leashed dogs are generally allowed (Grandma herself often has her friendly dogs around), it’s wise to use discretion if your dog isn’t used to farm animals or excited kids. If you bring a dog, ensure they stay on leash and away from the petting zoo area. Most families leave pets at home, so call ahead if in doubt.
• Photo Ops: This patch might just win for most adorable photo ops. The rustic barn, pumpkin piles by the old fence, and a cute cut-out “How Tall This Fall?” growth chart sign make for scrapbook-worthy shots. The vibe is very informal – if you want to stage a fun family photo, staff may even lend you a wagon or prop. Golden hour (late afternoon) is especially lovely as the sun filters through the walnut trees over the patch. No professional photographer rules here – Grandma loves seeing visitors taking photos and enjoying the farm.

Parent summary: A warm, nostalgic pumpkin patch experience that feels like a backyard family party. Grandma’s Pumpkin Patch is all about the kids – simple activities, no big lines or fees, just pure fall joy in a safe space. Parents will appreciate the relaxed pace (and the crafty farm store!), and your children will leave with happy hearts, maybe a new farm friend, and definitely a pumpkin picked with love.

Official link: Grandma’s Pumpkin Patch on Facebook – “Healdsburg Granny” posts updates there.

More Sonoma Patches to Visit (Small & Special Ones)

Beyond the big-name patches, Sonoma County is sprinkled with smaller pumpkin patches and farm stands that offer unique charm. These are perfect for shorter visits, specific regional outings, or families seeking a calmer experience. Here are 8 not-to-miss spots (with brief details) to round out your fall adventure list:

• Larson Family Winery Pumpkin Patch (Sonoma) – A petite pumpkin patch set on a historic winery estate. Families can wander the vines to pick pumpkins, gourds, and colorful flint corn, all while parents sip a glass of Chardonnay. Open Thu–Sun, 11 am–5 pm in October (free to roam). Don’t miss their fun extras: a Scarecrow Showdown display and a Halloween Canine Costume Contest on Oct 26 for winery visitors.
  • One-liner: Best for wine-loving parents with kids in tow – pumpkins and play for the kids, wine tasting for adults in one stop.
  • Link: Larson Family Winery
• Papa’s Pumpkin Patch (Sebastopol) – A hidden gem beneath towering redwoods. Papa’s is a U-pick patch where you cut pumpkins straight off the vine in the shade of old-growth trees. They grow an “astounding seven varieties” of pumpkins and gourds here. Open daily in October (roughly 9 am–4 pm), it’s adjacent to Apple-A-Day Ranch – you can pick apples right next door for a bonus treat. No frills, no crowds – just pure picking pleasure in a peaceful setting.
  • One-liner: Best for a quiet pumpkin picking escape – enjoy a serene farm atmosphere and maybe some fresh apples too.
  • Link: Papa’s Patch Facebook
• Hopkins Foggy River Farm (Healdsburg) – A truly authentic farm experience on Eastside Road. Foggy River Farm’s pumpkin patch is run by three generations of the Hopkins family, who grow everything on-site. Open Thu–Sun, 11 am–4 pm (through Oct 30). You’ll find dozens of pumpkin varieties in a tranquil riverside field, plus friendly goats and farm tours if you ask. This patch prides itself on having “no gimmicks, no bells-and-whistles” – just space, nature, and pumpkins. Reservations for entry are recommended on weekends to avoid overcrowding.
  • One-liner: Best for nature lovers and toddlers – quiet, spacious, and educational, like a storybook farm visit.
  • Link: Foggy River Farm
• Gambonini Family Ranch Farmstand (Petaluma) – A century-old dairy farm (est. 1913) turned pumpkin paradise for the season. The Gambonini ranch, nestled in Petaluma’s rolling hills, opens a farmstand and U-pick patch each October. Open Wed–Sun, 12 pm–6 pm (until Halloween). They’ve planted 17 varieties of pumpkins this year – from pink Porcelain Dolls to heirloom Valencianos for pie – plus sunflowers, squash, and Indian corn. The farmstand artfully displays pumpkins by size and type alongside fall decor items for sale. This is a great stop for picking out unique pumpkins and taking in gorgeous countryside views.
  • One-liner: Best for variety and vintage farm vibes – find uncommon pumpkin breeds and enjoy a scenic drive to this historic family ranch.
  • Link: Gambonini Family Ranch
• Preston Farm & Winery Pumpkin Patch (Dry Creek Valley, Healdsburg) – At the renowned organic Preston Farm & Winery, fall brings a bounty of U-pick pumpkins and gourds amid the vineyards. Open daily 10 am–4 pm throughout October. Visitors can wander the charming farm’s pumpkin field to pick their own, then swing by the farm store for artisanal breads, olive oil, and wine (of course!). Preston’s patch isn’t large, but the selection is “pumpkins and gourds galore” and the setting – golden vines and olive trees – is hard to beat.
  • One-liner: Best for a relaxed wine country fall outing – pick a pumpkin, taste some wine, and savor the rustic elegance of Dry Creek Valley.
  • Link: Preston Farm & Winery
• Forni Farm & Nursery (Santa Rosa) – A local family nursery that transforms part of their fields into a petite U-pick pumpkin area. Forni Farm has been in the Santa Rosa agricultural scene for generations and is known for organic vegetable starts – come October, they open Thu–Sat, 9:30 am–3:30 pm for pumpkin picking. You’ll find an array of decorative gourds, winter squash, and classic orange pumpkins, plus a farm stand with fall veggie plants and flowers. It’s quiet and quaint – perfect if you’re already in Santa Rosa and want a quick pumpkin stop with zero crowds.
  • One-liner: Best for gardeners and DIY decorators – pick out your pumpkins along with autumn plants and heirloom squash for cooking.
  • Link: Forni Farm & Nursery

Wrapping Up: Choosing Your Perfect Patch

With so many delightful options, how do you choose the right pumpkin patch for your family? Consider your children’s ages and your fall activity wish list:

• For toddlers and preschoolers: Smaller, contained patches like Punky’s or Grandma’s are fantastic. They offer gentle activities (petting zoos, mini-mazes) without overwhelming little ones. These patches tend to be less crowded on weekdays, have shaded play areas, and easy parking close by – all bonuses for parents of tiny tots. Preparation tip: Bring a lightweight stroller or wagon, snacks, and a change of clothes (corn pits = dusty kids!).
• For elementary-age kids: The bigger patches – Petaluma Pumpkin Patch, Mickelson’s, Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch – will truly dazzle this age group. They’ll love racing through huge corn mazes, bouncing on jump pads, shooting pumpkin cannons, and tackling hay mazes. These venues have a carnival atmosphere that can keep kids 5–10 entertained for hours. Preparation tip: Plan for at least a half-day adventure. Arrive when they open (to beat afternoon crowds), and consider buying activity wristbands if your child wants to do everything. Pack hand wipes for after petting zoos and plenty of water if it’s a warm day.
• For tweens, teens, and adventurous families: Look for patches with “extra thrills” or special events. Pronzini’s Fright Nights hayride is a spooky hit with teens, as is the nighttime corn maze at Petaluma Pumpkin Patch (try it by flashlight!). Some farms like Muelrath and Larson host unique contests (dog costumes, scarecrow competitions) that older kids might enjoy participating in. Preparation tip: Check patch websites or social media for event dates (haunted trails, pumpkin carving contests, etc.) and plan around those for added excitement. And don’t forget to bring a good camera or fully charged phone – teens will want to capture the Instagram-worthy moments like glowing jack-o’-lanterns on pikes or themselves conquering the corn maze at night.
• For the whole family (multi-age outings): You might consider splitting your pumpkin adventures into two trips: one to a high-energy patch and one to a laid-back farm. Or choose a versatile spot like Santa Rosa Pumpkin Patch, which has a broad range of activities from mild to wild. Also, wine country patches like Larson Family Winery or Preston Farm can please both kids (pumpkins to pick, open space to run) and adults (hello, wine tasting!).

No matter where you go, a few general preparation tips will make your pumpkin patch day smooth: dress in layers (mornings are cool, afternoons can still be warm), wear boots or washable shoes (expect dirt, or mud if it rained), and toss a couple of reusable bags or a tarp in your trunk for transporting those pumpkins home. Most farms are cash-friendly – while they take cards, having some cash speeds things up for buying snacks or paying small admission fees. And if you’re aiming for that perfect family photo, try to visit earlier in the season or on weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds, and go in the late afternoon golden hour for the best light.

Finally, embrace the spirit of fall that Sonoma County does so well. Whether you’re navigating a corn maze with giggling kids, sipping fresh cider under an oak tree, or watching your child proudly choose “the one” pumpkin, these moments are what autumn memories are made of. Each patch in Sonoma has its own flavor – from spooky to sweet – but all share a commitment to family fun and agricultural heritage. So pick a patch (or two), charge your camera, and enjoy a pumpkin-perfect day in Sonoma County!