Vala's Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard

Vala's is the metro's best-known fall outing, a sprawling farm park outside Gretna founded by Tim and Jan Vala that celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2026. Locals treat a trip to Vala's as an autumn ritual, and many families buy season passes and come back several times.

Admission covers more than 50 attractions and live shows: tractor rides out to the orchard for pick-your-own apples, cut-your-own flowers, hayrides, a corn maze, a roller coaster, jumping pillows and pumpkin launches. There are also 20-plus food locations (the farm's own posts give 20 and 25), and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. In 2026 the farm added a pirate-themed area and new rides.

The season runs daily from around Labor Day through November 1, with weekday and early-September discounts. Weekends in October draw huge crowds, so plan accordingly.

Highlights

• More than 50 attractions and shows
• Pick-your-own apples and cut-your-own flowers
• Corn maze, hayrides and jumping pillows
• Pumpkin launches and a roller coaster
• Private campfire sites available

Tips for going

• Weekdays are much cheaper and calmer than October weekends.
• Pumpkins are not included in admission.
• You can bring your own food and drinks, which helps a family budget.
• Open until 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; evenings are cooler and less crowded.
• Reserve a campfire site early if you want one on a fall weekend.