Harvest Gold: Autumn Adventures in the Champaign-Urbana Area
When the evenings turn cool, the Champaign-Urbana area shifts into its best season. The air smells crisp. The sunsets look impossibly filtered. And the distant melodies of the Marching Illini provide a comforting soundtrack.
It’s also an amazing time to lean into our agricultural experiences—from pumpkin patches and apple picking to goat dairies and reindeer!
Ag experiences
The Great Pumpkin Patch
This seasonal spot in Arthur grows over 300 varieties of cucurbits (squash and gourds) from around the world. In fact, the Great Pumpkin Patch has been featured by Martha Stewart Living and the White House for their creative passion for these wonderful crops. Go beyond the typical orange pumpkin—pick up something unique, and learn about different ways to enjoy cucurbits, from soups to baking (and decor, of course)! Make a day of it—navigate their various mazes, walk the beautiful grounds, and stop in the Homestead Bakery for fresh-baked Amish goods.
GREEN MEADOW FARM
Also nearby in Arthur, Green Meadow Farm offers a quieter farm experience. Enjoy a horse-and-buggy ride on this Amish farm that mills their own wheat, then take in the serenity of the area by staying in their on-site camper.
Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch
Apple pie, apple crisp, apple crumble...there's no better time than fall to visit Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch. Grab one of their bags and pick delicious apples right from the trees for your next culinary creation! Kids will love the activities, tractor rides, and on-site kitties, while you can shop at their store for apple donuts, cider, and award-winning honey. And don't forget the pumpkins and gourds!
Negangard Pumpkin Patch
Enjoy all the fall feels by stopping by this small, family-owned farm in Sidney. It's where picking pumpkins is a joyful experience for all ages and an annual tradition for many locals!
Okaw Valley Orchard
Pick late 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!
Hardy's Reindeer Ranch
Experience the season's magic with over a dozen Alaskan reindeer, ready to kiss you in exchange for a graham cracker. Don't miss their 10-acre corn maze, a perfect spot to get lost.
PRAIRIE FRUITS FARM & CREAMERY
What's cuter than a little goat? A whole herd of them! At Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery, you can visit with the goats, walk around the farm's nature paths, and see the goat-cheese making process. Buy their award-winning cheese to take home with you, or dine at their on-site restaurant, Caprae.
Sundrop Alpacas
Get to know these irresistibly soft alpacas, known for their gentle nature. Tours at this farm in Bement, near Monticello, are by appointment only, and they're super educational! Along with discovering the charm of these fluffy creatures, you can browse through a selection of luxurious alpaca fiber products.
AIKMAN WILDLIFE ADVENTURE
In Arcola, you can see exotic animals like zebras, camels, and bison from the comfort of your car or an open-air wagon. This sprawling wildlife park offers a safari-style experience that blends adventure with conservation education.
CU on the farm!
Visit the farms that make our community brilliant—and get rewarded. The CU on the Farm Experience Pass spotlights nearly 20 working farms—including all the ones featured here—that offer tours, tastings, u-pick, classes, special events, and even overnight stays!
Visit five or more, and you’ll win a limited-edition, CU on the Farm vinyl sticker set!
Plan Your Visit
Need help planning your autumn adventure in 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.