If you were to ask my daughter what her favorite place on earth is, you might expect her to say Disney World or some faraway adventure. But nope — her happy place is a little closer to home. Every fall since we’ve been living on the Mainland, we find our greatest joy wandering through Vala’s (our local pumpkin patch here in Nebraska.) There’s just something about the crisp autumn air, the golden fields, and the simple pleasure of searching for the perfect pumpkin that fills our hearts in a way no roller coaster ever could. Here’s a peek into some of our best days among the pumpkins.
Vala’s has so much to do — seriously, you could spend a whole weekend there and still not see everything. I’m definitely not about to list it all (because who has that kind of time?), but I’ll hit the highlights and share our personal favorites. These are the things that keep us coming back year after year, cider in hand and probably covered in a little bit of hay and midwest dust.
The first thing we do each year is the haunted house. If you know me, I can be quite the wimp. So, this house is just the right amount of “haunted” for me!
After we catch our breath from exaggerated screaming through the haunted house, we head over to the corn maze. They change the design each year to keep it exciting. It’s become a joke of ours because for 3 years in a row now, we have entered the corn-maze and exited at the same spot (rather than finding the exit). We’ve come to the conclusion we aren’t the best at corn mazes. But, the laughs we have while we meander our way through is something I look forward to all year!
Another fun area of Vala’s is walking through the apple orchard. There’s nothing quite like wandering between the rows of trees with a basket in hand and picking apples straight from the branches. The air smells so good — a mix of apples, leaves, and that crisp fall breeze. Have you ever noticed the apples always taste better when you’ve picked them yourself? We usually end up snacking as we go, laughing when someone finds “the perfect apple” waaaaay at the top of the tree, and constructing a game plan to capture it. By the end, we’re a little dirty, a little tired, and totally happy — exactly how a fall day should be.
What trip to a pumpkin patch would be complete without pumpkins!!!! I love the nostalgic hayrack ride out to the patch. It only takes about 5 minutes. But, as I take in the scenery and watch the excited faces of the kiddos on board, I always find my self wishing it took a bit longer to get out there. It just warms my heart to see families stepping out of their busy lives to spend time together enjoying nature in such a fun way.
For those of you who still want a little Disney World feel to the day 😉 there are a few rides. In my opinion, they are aimed more for the kiddos. My little Ladybug is 13 and still enjoys them-and so do I if they don’t make me dizy lol. These swings were just added and a fun addition to the day!
After wandering through the pumpkins and corn mazes, we like to find a spot to sit back, relax, and take it all in. The air is cool and crisp, the trees are glowing with color, and there’s usually the sweet smell of kettle corn drifting by (my husband’s favorite). We’ll grab a few local drinks — hard apple cider for the grown-ups, root beer or hot cocoa for the kids — and just enjoy the moment. I love watching the sun dip behind the fields.
We always leave Vala’s with our hearts and tummy’s full.
It feels like a short season in the year. But, we are always so grateful for the hard work that goes into creating this magical space for us. The ticket prices are a bit expensive. But, as long as my 13 year old still finds me cool enough to spend the day there with her, I will do it in a heart beat! Money well spent.
What is your favorite place to visit in the fall?
Have you been to the pumpkin patch this year yet?
I’d love to hear what your pumpkin patch is like!
With Love and Aloha,
Lacy
Featured Blog Posts:
Is it Possible to Be a Foodie and Still Be Healthy?
Lacy, I enjoyed this adventure with your family full of joy. I like to try the corn-maze if I ever find the exit. Right, the apple is tastier if you’re the one who picks it. I like the gratitude feelings you put into this writing. Stay an amazing mom!
Awe. Thank you for taking the time to comment. Maybe next year we will have better luck at the corn maze 🤣
I think so, busy mom. All the best and pleasure. Enjoy your weekend!