As we say goodbye to summer and hello to fall, it’s time to close the pools and open the pumpkin patches. Seasonal changes don’t just include differences in weather, but also in festivities.
We know activities in New Jersey can be a little scarce at times, but don’t worry, we’re here to help. After scouring the internet, reflecting on childhood day trips and talking to friends and family, here are our top places to go for the fall season:
Wightman Farms
Located in Morristown, Wightman Farms is a familiar spot for many. Year round, the farm store is open everyday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. After Labor Day, however, the farm begins its Fall Festival, offering activities from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. So if you’re looking to get apples for your pie or get lost in a field of corn, Wightman Farms is the place for you. For an entry fee of $25, you have access to hayrides, corn mazes and the weigh-and-pay apple orchard — and for an extra fee you can purchase a ticket for their pumpkin slingshot. At the end of your trip you may be tired, but be sure to stop at the farm store for some fall treats. For more information, check out their website wightmanfarms.com.
Union County Haunted Hayrides
If you’re searching for a local place to fulfill all your ghostly desires — you’re in luck — Union County provides just that. On Nov. 1, 2 and 3, Watchung Reservation will host the Union County Haunted Hayrides. Each day the rides begin at 6:30 p.m. and conclude at 9:00 p.m. (8:30 p.m. on the last day). The rides are scheduled to run every half-hour and tickets are $8 for all county residents. The Haunted Hayrides are a perfect option for friends and families looking for an easily accessible frightful night. To purchase a ticket or learn more, visit ucnj.org.
Alstede Farms
Located in Chester, Alstede Farms has a variety of ways to “experience the Magic of Autumn.” Their Harvest Moon Nights offer a corn maze, hayrides, food stalls and live music from local artists. Admission is $20 and the event runs from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. They also offer a daily “pick your own,” starting at 9:00 a.m., where you can pick a variety of produce including pumpkins, sunflowers and apples. To learn more, or to purchase tickets you can visit their website at alstedefarms.com.
Scare Farm
Looking for a fright filled experience this fall? Norz Hill Farms in Hillsborough offers just that with their spooky history and haunted house experiences. The land that the farm sits on has a history of mysterious disappearances and people going insane. They seek to uphold their history as they invite everyone to come and “embrace their fears.” This year, they brought back their haunted walking trails along with adding a new haunted hayride. Tickets increase in price as the date gets closer to Halloween. The event runs from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Sundays. To learn more visit their website at norzhillfarm.com.