Apple picking, hayrides, pumpkins… they are all signs that fall has arrived in Orange County. There is so much to do and see this time of year to celebrate the harvest season. Check out these fun activities for the entire family!
Riley’s Farm
Riley’s Farm in Oak Glen is known for having one of the largest orchards in the Glen. With over 30 varieties of apples, there are trees that are more than 100 years old, planted by the original owners.
But, there is much more to do at Riley’s than just pick apples and other seasonal crops. Riley’s is also a living history farm and is home to several events, such as period adventures themed for The Civil War as well as The Revolutionary War. You can also take part in several overnight historically themed events. While you’re at the farm, be sure to visit the Hawk’s Head Restaurant as well as the Colonial Chesterfield Bakery. If you’re afraid they’ll run out of your favorite treat before you get there, you can order ahead and pick it up at the window. At Riley’s Farm there is something to do and eat for the entire family!
Riley’s Apple Farm
Often confused with Riley’s Farm, Riley’s Apple Farm is an entirely different business. Also located in Oak Glen, Riley’s Apple Farm sits on three acres of land in what is referred to as California’s “Apple Country”.
Here you can pick your own apples and other fruit that is in season as well as pumpkins. While you’re here, you and the family can also take park in archery and tomahawk activities as well as cider pressing. Kids can even make their own cornhusk dolls. Don’t forget to check out the yummy treats at the country store before you head home. Just a note — the farm is closed on Mondays.
Oktoberfest Kinderfest
The Kinderfest is held every Sunday from September 17 through October 29th at the Old World German Restaurant and Beer Garden in Huntington Beach.
Each Sunday afternoon from 2-7:30p.m. kids and the entire family can enjoy carnival games, face painting, and even dog races. Dodo the chicken is around too! The whole family can get on the dance floor and do The Chicken Dance! For the adults, there is a great selection of German beers to try out in the Oktoberfest tradition as well as bratwurst and a mouth-watering barbecue. Buy your tickets online to save time once you get there.
Tanaka Farms
The pumpkin patch is open and ready for picking at Tanaka Farms in Irvine. That’s not all, though.
There are wagon rides, a corn maze, and a petting zoo complete with goats, sheep, and even an alpaca. On the weekends, the activities ramp up with face painting, games, ATV rides, and crafts. Take home some farm fresh produce from the farm stand that’s open daily. Or if you want, pick your own vegetables from the vegetable patch to bring home. If all of that work makes you hungry, take a break and grab a snack at Tanaka Farms Grill and Lemonade Shack.
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm
Not too far away from Orange County, you’ll find Peltzer Pumpkin Farm in Temecula.
The name here says it all. If you’re looking for a pumpkin, this is the place. Come with the family to pick your pumpkin and stay for a host of other activities including a petting zoo and pig races.Peltzer Pumpkin Farm is also home to a gem mine where you can come and take part in gem panning.There are also train rides around the farm and a tractor garden on display; end the day with a pony ride for the kids. If you’re looking for an activity just for adults, visit the Peltzer Family Cellars that opened last year.
Fall has never been so much exciting! Take the family to any one of these places for a fun-filled day around Orange County.
