Provo, UT

You probably drive by it every day, or at the very least, every week. And you never even notice it. We’re talking about Pumpkinland, folks. You’re asking yourself, “Pumpkinland? Where in the heck is that? What in the heck is that?” Set aside your concerns and head for the patch while you’ve still got the chance. This very child-friendly, affordable little pumpkin patch sitting between Geneva Road and Interstate 15 will likely become an annual tradition once you’ve had your first experience.  A big part of that is that it feels old. Old as in old-fashioned. It’s a throwback to earlier, simpler days. Your kids will get it right away. And don’t worry, mom and dad, you’ll catch up.

First, the what and where. You’ll find Pumpkinland at the Vineyard Garden Center on Geneva Road in Orem. If you’re coming from I-15, you’ll take the Orem Center Street exit (whether coming from the north or south) and drive west (towards Utah Lake.) Once you reach Geneva Road, turn south (left) and keep motoring until you reach the nursery at 435 S Geneva Rd. They are open Monday-Saturday 9:30am-6:00pm. Entrance fee is $3.00 per person (for those 3-99, as Farmer Grant tells us) and this is definitely one of those “get more than what you pay for” kind of deals.

Light Alley:
This very kid-friendly (meaning not scary) spot is a fun little escape with a touch of simple magic to it. The Disneyland Main Street Parade it ain’t. But for the same cost as a straw and napkin at Walt’s place, you’ll get magic nonetheless. Not to mention that there’s a children’s play area (complete with picnic tables) right before you enter the Alley. That’s right, a play area. You remember playing? I thought so.

Corn Maze:
Something about rustling corn stalks with mountains in the background just does the trick for me.  See if it will do the same for you. You might even point out to the little ones that this is where plants come from (you know, corn and pumpkins, etc.)

Farm Animals:
As the end of the maze you’ll find an area where various animal friends are waiting to congratulate you on solving the maze…Okay, maybe not, but there are turkeys, goats, rabbits, chickens, and other farm friends who seem to be happy about something. “No putting fingers in cages, please,” Farmer Grant kindly reminds us.

Pumpkins (and other corna-copic delights):
It’s not called Pumpkinland for nothing, friend. They pick ‘em for you and let you  and the little ones have the fun part. And as a reminder, you’re at a nursery, so of course there are vast varieties of flowers, plants and other gardening goodies to be had. Plus these people actually know what they’re talking about (no big-box names will be mentioned here…)

So set aside that long list of boring to-do’s and find your way to Pumpkinland. You’ll leave with a smile and sweet memories, I promise. (And when have I ever failed you?)