Pumpkin Station – Mission Valley
If you live in San Diego, then you’ve probably seen the Mission Valley Pumpkin Station right of the 8 freeway. It’s conveniently located in central San Diego which makes it a breeze to get to and a great meeting point for spending some time with family and friends. A huge plus for me is, that the parking is a cinch! They have a huge lot full of free spaces. I don’t know about you, but I always consider this a win! Especially when you have the little ones in tow.
This pumpkin patch is simple, small, and PACKED with things to do. It’s a great place to go for a couple of hours to let the kids burn some energy and for the parents to get that perfect pumpkin patch photo. They have plenty of jumpers with slides, about 4 different rides, and even a fun train! Make sure to print off a free ride coupon for the train. One thing I especially like about this patch is that the rides are loooong! They seriously let the kids go on each ride for quite a while. As a mom, it makes me feel like I’m getting my money’s worth! Ha!
My daughter’s favorite part of the patch is the petting zoo. She absolutely loves it! She adores the chickens that roam around and they even let her pick them up. Last year, one of the ladies that worked there asked if we have chickens at home because they were so comfortable in my daughter’s arms. HA! No, we sure don’t! Unfortunately, the chickens weren’t there this year. We were told that quite a few kids had plucked their feathers out and they were slightly traumatized by the kids. I for one am doing my best to raise my kids to have the utmost respect for animals. To treat every living being with respect. I think we are doing a good job so far.
You’re also welcome to bring in food and drinks and there are picnic tables where you can sit and relax for a few minutes. I always pack my kids’ plenty of water because they literally go nuts on all the rides and bounce houses. They even have a game center located in the middle where you can win some fun prizes. We usually only do 2 pumpkin patches each year because they can get crowded, the weather can be too hot, and sometimes you are just busy! If you’re looking for a fun place for the kids with all the fall feels, this is your spot.
Summer’s Past Farm – Flinn Springs
Summers Past in Flinn Springs, San Diego is something I look forward to. It’s a new spot I discovered in the last 2 years. What a picturesque place this is! It’s quaint, beautiful, and is all around a great environment.
In front of the farm is a corn maze. We always start here. The kids enjoy getting “lost” and looking for ladybugs. After the maze, there is a beautiful little shop with plenty of fall decor and fun goods for the home. In the back of the farm, you will find a lovely patio with comfortable seating where you can grab some iced tea, snacks, or coffee. If you have little ones with you, I suggest finding a little spot right by the sandbox.
There are plenty of toys to keep them busy while you casually sip your beverage of choice. This can be a luxury for most parents so take advantage! There’s a huge grass area where you can let the kids run around. There are chickens, a bounce house, a badminton set, and even a bucket full of balls and frisbees to toss around. I usually have the kids take a few family photos in the patch and on the tractor before letting them run wild. That way they look nice and clean for the photos. If you’re lucky enough to see the two property cats that roam around and greet you, make sure to give them a little love.
