Your Guide to Pumpkin Patches Near San Rafael

Fall is officially here, and that means it’s time to find the perfect pumpkin! Heading to a local pumpkin patch isn’t just about picking out a great jack-o'-lantern; it’s a wonderful seasonal tradition that lets you enjoy nature, support local farms, and make lasting memories with family and friends.

Many of the patches around Marin County and beyond offer more than just pumpkins, with fun extras like hay rides, corn mazes, games, and farm animals to keep everyone entertained.

Whether you're looking for a massive carver or just a little festive flair for your front stoop, we've put together a guide to some of the best pumpkin patches near San Rafael this season.

Top Pumpkin Patches to Explore

Here are some of our favorite spots to find your perfect pumpkin:

Marin County

• Grossi Family Farm

  • Address: 3666 Novato Blvd., Novato, CA 94947

  • Details: Offers a pick-your-own pumpkin patch! Open Wednesday–Friday (noon–5:30 p.m.) and Saturday–Sunday (10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.). On weekends, a $5 admission (ages 2+) includes the pumpkin fields, hay maze/pyramid, corn pit, games, and farm animals. Food and extra activities (like a bunny experience) are available for purchase.

• Ian’s Pumpkin Patch

  • Address: 690 Redwood Highway Frontage Rd., Mill Valley, CA 94941

  • Details: A quick drive from San Rafael, this spot is a kid magnet, open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It features inflatable bounce houses for a jumping good time. Tickets for activities can be purchased on site.

• Nicasio Valley Pumpkin Patch

  • Address: 5300 Nicasio Valley Rd., Nicasio, CA 94946

  • Details: Celebrating its 30th year and open daily until November 2nd! On weekdays, enjoy hay mazes, farm animals, and a corn sensory pit. Weekends offer even more activities. Visit their website for specific details on pricing, hours, and offerings.

Beyond Marin

• Richmond Pumpkin Patch

  • Address: 2200 Hilltop Mall Rd., Richmond, CA 94806

  • Details: Open daily with free entry and tons of fall-themed photo opportunities. For an extra fee, enjoy attractions like a petting zoo, inflatables, duck boats, and paintballs. Check their website for varying prices and operating hours.

• Petaluma Pumpkin Patch

  • Address: 450 Stony Point Rd., Petaluma, CA 94952

  • Details: Features over five acres of pumpkins and free family activities, including a covered snack area. For an additional cost, you can brave the "Amazing Corn Maze" and other attractions. Visit their website for hours and pricing.

• Pronzini Farms

  • Address: 3795 Adobe Rd., Petaluma, CA 94954

  • Details: Offers daily pumpkin sales ($4 to $30). Enjoy fall photo ops, like a horse-drawn pumpkin carriage. Daily activities include a hay tower and corn pit, and there’s live music on Saturdays and Sundays (noon–6 p.m.). Check their website for specific pricing and hours.

• Mickelson Pumpkin Patch

  • Address: 5495 Redwood Hwy South, Petaluma, CA 94952

  • Details: Daily family fun including a grain train, hay maze and pyramid, apple cannon, and a paintball gallery—in addition to pumpkin picking! Food and drink are available on-site. Visit their website for activity pricing and daily hours.

Tips for a Perfect Pumpkin Season

Choosing the Right Pumpkin

Keep in mind that carving and baking pumpkins are different. Carving pumpkins are generally larger, brighter, and more hollow—perfect for a jack-o'-lantern. Their flesh is watery and not ideal for eating. Baking pumpkins are smaller, have thicker walls, and boast sweeter flesh, which is what you'll want for pies and treats. You may need to visit a grocery store for baking varieties.

How to Carve the Ultimate Jack-o'-Lantern

When picking a carving pumpkin, look for one that feels sturdy and clean. A great jack-o'-lantern will be the centerpiece of your porch!

What you’ll need:

• Pumpkin Carving Kit: These are the easiest option and typically include saws, a scooper, and patterns.

• Household alternatives: A serrated kitchen knife, an ice cream scoop, paper, a pencil/pen, and a candle or battery-operated light.

Step-by-Step Carving Guide:

1. Cut it: Instead of cutting a lid from the top, try cutting an opening from the bottom of the pumpkin. This helps prevent the sides from caving in later and makes placing the light easier.

2. Gut it: Use an ice cream scoop or your hands to thoroughly clean out all the seeds and fibrous debris from inside the pumpkin.

3. Trace it: Draw your design on paper first, then use a fork or pencil to poke holes along the lines to transfer the pattern onto the pumpkin.

4. Make the cuts: Start by carving out the large pieces of the design, then go back to clean up the edges.

5. Light it: Place a candle in a holder or a battery-operated light inside, and step back to enjoy your illuminated masterpiece!

Which patch are you planning to visit first this year?