It’s that time of year again! It’s time to enjoy the cooler weather, the beautiful fall foliage, and all the fun activities that come along with the autumn season. Pottawattamie County is a great place to enjoy the season, from pumpkin patches, apple orchards, haunted attractions, and more.
Pumpkin Hill Farms is a gem in Pottawattamie County! Enjoy all sorts of fall festivities, including pumpkin picking, feeding friendly farm animals, playing in the Hay Castle, and sipping a pumpkin spice latte. They are open Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
This small family-owned patch has the “Ma and Pa” feel that we all love! It is free to get into the patch, and there are a variety of pumpkins and gourds available to purchase. There’s plenty of room for the kiddos to enjoy with numerous free activities to try out. They are open Monday thru Friday from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Ditmar’s Orchard & Vineyard is a one-stop shop for all things fall! Enjoy a hayrack ride to the pumpkin patch, apple picking, a petting zoo, a corn and pallet maze, and so much more. Don’t forget to stop by their café’ for delicious homemade food and apple cider donuts. They are open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Take a scenic horseback ride or hayrack ride through the Loess Hills at Shady Lane Ranch! They offer hourly guided horseback rides out on the trails, which is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the crisp fall air. Hayrack rides are perfect for larger groups, and you can even enjoy a private campfire afterward! To make a reservation, call (712) 323-1932.
Legend has it that the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail has been haunted since its opening. In the fall months, the jail offers Flashlight Tours, Ghost Hunts, and paranormal investigations. Check out their website for booking information.
Looking for something unusual this spooky season? Visit the Volkswagen Beetle Spider in Avoca! The sculpture’s eight giant legs and huge body look menacing regardless of the time of day or night. Stand under it if you dare!
For many locals, the best part of fall is watching the leaves change colors. Sometimes it can be difficult to anticipate when the peak fall colors will be showing, but the Iowa DNR sends out a Fall Color Report that helps estimate peak viewing dates based on where you are in Iowa. Currently, they are predicting that October 8 – 12 will be the best viewing in southwest Iowa. Check out any of the parks listed below to see some fantastic fall foliage!
Check out our calendar of events to see a list of upcoming festivities to attend in Pottawattamie County! We’re sure you’ll find something of interest from live music out at Stanley’s Snack Shack to the Arrowhead Park Chili Fest and the much-anticipated Walnut Antique Fall Festival.
For even more festive fall events happening in Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County, check out UNleashCB’s blog.
