There are a ton of fabulously fun Pumpkin Patches around the Bay Area, and we’ve been to our fair share of them over the years. But this fall we sought out something a little different, and wow was it worth the drive. Rancho Siempre Verde is a multi generational family farm, about two hours drive from Berkeley, with an authentically rustic yet whimsical vibe. My kids (ages 4, 6, 9, 11) ran wild for hours, playing on the epic swings and slide, picking beautiful flowers and apples, and eventually getting around to picking pumpkins. So if you’re looking for less of a carnival experience and are willing to get muddy boots, Rancho Siempre Verde is absolutely worth a visit.
Rancho Siempe Verde Farm’s Annual Pumpkin Picking Festival
Each fall Rancho Siempe Verde invites families to the stunning coastal area of Pescadero, just south of Half Moon Bay, to pick out pumpkins and play at the farm. My family is more accustomed to the corn mazes, pumpkin canons and pony rides that have become ubiquitous at most pumpkin patches these days. This is not that kind of experience, but in the best of ways!
Make a weekend of it with a stay in Moss Beach and a visit to Año Nuevo State Park>>
What Kids Love
My kids ran right for the gigantic tube slide as soon as we arrived, and didn’t stop running wild for hours. They sailed high on the legendary swings, spun like crazy on the enormous tire swing, and even took a try at cutting flowers and apples. I was happily surprised at how much fun everyone had without the typical trappings of a commercial pumpkin patch. Something about the low-key nature of the farm and activities lowers the intensity level and makes the day more magically calm and enjoyable. Oh, and of course picking the perfect pumpkin was a great way to cap off a lovely day at the farm.
Pro Tip: They have two nice, long baby bucket swings, so babies and toddlers don’t have to miss out on all the fun.
What Adults Enjoy
Cutting flowers, picking apples, and arranging wreaths are all adult-friendly activities that sparked joy for both my husband and me. The amazing swings were also super fun, especially for those of us who get motion sickness on typical swings. Something about the long arc and smooth ride make it less nauseating and actually very soothing.
Cost and Details
You will need to purchase tickets and reserve your spot online before you go. This helps them regulate crowds better and keeps things more low key. It’s also really nice not to have to buy tickets for different activities like at other pumpkin patches. It’s pretty much all included and more relaxed because of it. You’ll buy one ticket for an entire car of up to six people for $75 per car. This admission price will get you:
- 5 pumpkins (1 big, 2 medium and 3 small) of your choosing
- 3.5 hours of activities (swings, slides, tractor rides, picnic tables and good vibes)
- Bounty of goods from the farm, including:
- Big bunch of flowers
- Bag of our own delicious farm grown apples
- Parking
- Mention 510families at the farm for an additional free small pumpkin.
More Details
- Location: 2250 Cabrillo Hwy (Highway 1), Pescadero
- Open: Saturday & Sunday (9 am to 5 pm) during three October weekends: 15 & 16, 22 & 23, and 29.
- Website>>
- Wreath making supplies and instructions, extra pumpkins, flowers, apples and pre-made wreaths are available for purchase with a credit card.
- Dogs are allowed
- They have several port-o-potties in the parking area
What to Bring
- While they have wagons, you might find it more useful to have your own since they don’t have that many
- Boots or other mud-friendly shoes for running around and getting dirty
- Plastic bag to carry dirty boots home.
- Snacks, lunch, water. They don’t have food for purchase.
- Warm jackets that block the wind
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a pumpkin picking experience that’s more exciting than a basic patch, but less hectic than a carnival experience, Ranch Siempre Verde is the place for you. Our family had so much wholesome outdoor fun that we’re already planning our Christmas Tree visit in December.
