Brilliant Stories

Agricultural Experiences in the Champaign-Urbana Area

September 13, 2024

Take part in fall's quintessential activities—apple and pumpkin picking! Far more than just pulling a wagon and filling it up, these spots immerse you in the agricultural experience.

 

The Great Pumpkin Patch

This seasonal spot grows over 300 varieties of cucurbits (squash and gourds) from around the world. Go beyond the typical organge pumpkin and pick up something unique while learning about the many uses from foasting to baking! Navigate their various mazes, walk the beautiful grounds, and stop in the Homestead Bakery for fresh-baked Amish goods.

 

donuts from Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin PatchCurtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch

Each July, we await the opportunity to start picking the first of the season's apples and our first warm batch of apple donuts! Take part in the various family-friendly activities on the farm and shop at their store, where you can pick up their award-winning honey. Fall brings ample opportunities for selecting up your pumpkins and gourds, providing all the fall feels.

 

Negangard Pumpkin Patch

Stop by this small, family-owned farm in Sidney, where picking pumpkins is a joyful experience for all ages and an annual tradition for many!

 

Green Meadow Farm

This goat farm in Arthur offers a full Amish experience. Take a horse and buggy ride around the farm. Taste the yogurt and dairy products made from the goats, and camp on the property to be treated to prairie sunrises, sunset, and starry skies.

 

Okaw Valley Orchard

Pick summer and fall's tastiest treats from this family-owned orchard in Sullivan. Apples, peaches, plums, and pears grow on over 1,500 trees, ready to be picked and enjoyed. Shop their Country Store for cider, honey, jellies, and plenty of baked goods.

 

Animal Adventures

There is no shortage of opportunities to get up close and personal with wildlife, from exotic creatures to farm animals!

 

Guests getting up close and personal with camels at Aikman Wildlife AdventuresAikman Wildlife Adventures

Embark on a wild journey and encounter exotic creatures up close. From striped zebras and colorful macaws to playful lemurs, immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of wildlife in this drive-thru or walkable adventure.

 

Hardy's Reindeer Ranch

Experience the season's magic with over a dozen reindeer, ready to kiss you in exchange for a graham cracker. Don't miss their 10-acre corn maze in the fall, a perfect spot to get lost. 

 

Prairie Farm

Bring the little ones out for a free petting zoo experience, where sheep, goats, pugs, turkeys, and more will surely delight all ages.

 

Sundrop Alpacas

Get to know these irresistibly soft alpacas, known for their gentle nature. Discover the charm of these fluffy creatures and browse through a selection of luxurious alpaca fiber products during their occasional open hours.

 

Plan Your Visit

Need help planning your visit to the Champaign-Urbana area? Check out our Experience Guide, or contact us for more information! Don’t forget to book your stay at our area hotels, located conveniently throughout the community.

We use cookies to ensure that you get the best experience on our website, although the cookies we use do not contain personally identifiable information. By continuing on this website or by clicking “ I Accept Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device. You can learn more about our privacy policy, how we use cookies, or how to disable cookies by clicking on the " Learn More " link at the end of this statement. Learn More.

I Accept Cookies I Decline Cookies