How to Save on Pumpkin Patches in Fort Worth

Pumpkin patches are more than just seasonal attractionstheyre cherished family traditions that mark the arrival of autumn in Fort Worth and across North Texas. From hayrides and corn mazes to photo ops with giant pumpkins and fresh cider stands, these fall experiences bring communities together. But as popularity grows, so do prices. Admission fees, parking charges, add-on activities, and snack costs can quickly turn a fun outing into a costly one. The good news? With smart planning and insider knowledge, families in Fort Worth can enjoy the full autumn experience without overspending. This guide reveals exactly how to save on pumpkin patches in Fort Worth, from finding free or discounted admissions to maximizing value with group deals, timing strategies, and local promotions. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a seasoned fall enthusiast, these proven tactics will help you enjoy the harvest season on a budget.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research Local Pumpkin Patches Before the Season Begins

The foundation of saving money on pumpkin patches starts long before you pack the car. Many Fort Worth-area pumpkin patches begin advertising their fall events as early as July and August. Begin by compiling a list of all known pumpkin patches within a 50-mile radius of Fort Worth. Popular locations include The Pumpkin Patch at River Ranch, The Great Pumpkin Patch in Grapevine, Hickory Creek Farm, and The Pumpkin Patch at Billy Bobs Texas. Visit each farms official website, Facebook page, or Instagram profile to gather pricing details, event schedules, and special offers.

Pay attention to whether admission is charged per person, per vehicle, or if theres a flat rate for unlimited activities. Some farms offer pay what you can or donation-based entry during early weeks or on weekdays. Others include the pumpkin in the admission pricethis is a critical distinction. A $15 admission with a free pumpkin is far more valuable than a $10 admission with a $8 pumpkin on top.

Sign Up for Email Newsletters and Social Media Alerts

Most pumpkin patches in Fort Worth rely on digital outreach to drive attendance. By subscribing to their email newsletters or following them on Instagram and Facebook, youll receive exclusive early-bird discounts, flash sales, and last-minute promotions. For example, Hickory Creek Farm often sends a First Friday Free coupon to subscribers, granting free admission for up to four people on the first Friday of October. Similarly, The Great Pumpkin Patch in Grapevine occasionally offers 20% off tickets when you use a code shared only via Instagram Stories.

Set up Google Alerts for Fort Worth pumpkin patch deals or Texas fall attractions discounts to catch third-party promotions from local bloggers, parenting groups, or community calendars. Many times, these unadvertised deals appear only in neighborhood Facebook groups like Fort Worth Moms or North Texas Family Events.

Visit on Weekdays or Early in the Season

Weekends, especially the second and third weekends of October, are the most crowdedand expensivetimes to visit. Pumpkin patches often raise prices during peak demand. To save significantly, plan your visit for a weekday (TuesdayThursday) or during the first week of October, before crowds swell.

Many farms offer weekday discounts of 2550% off regular admission. For instance, River Ranch Pumpkin Patch charges $18 per person on weekends but only $9 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Even better, early-season visits often mean shorter lines, more available pumpkins, and better photo opportunities without dozens of other families in the background.

Arriving early in the daybetween 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.can also help. Some farms offer Sunrise Specials where the first 50 guests receive free pumpkin carving kits or a complimentary cup of cider. Arriving early also means youll have first pick of the largest, most symmetrical pumpkins before theyre snapped up.

Look for Bundle Deals and Family Packages

Dont pay for activities individually. Many pumpkin patches in Fort Worth offer bundled admission packages that include unlimited access to hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and playgroundsall for one price. These packages often cost less per activity than buying tickets la carte.

For example, Billy Bobs Texas Pumpkin Patch offers a Family Fun Pack for $45 that includes admission for two adults and two children, one pumpkin per person, a hayride, and unlimited access to the giant slide and mini-golf course. If you were to pay separately, those same activities would total over $75. Always ask if a bundle is availableeven if its not listed on the website. Staff often have unadvertised deals for larger groups.

Also, check if the patch offers a Bring a Friend promotion. Some farms let you bring one additional person for free if you purchase a family ticket. This is especially useful if youre combining outings with neighbors or extended family.

Bring Your Own Supplies to Avoid Markup Costs

Pumpkin patches are notorious for inflated prices on snacks, drinks, and even pumpkin carving tools. A bottled water might cost $4, a hot apple cider $7, and a small carving kit $12. Save money by preparing ahead.

Bring refillable water bottles, a small cooler with sandwiches and fruit, and your own pumpkin carving tools (a spoon, butter knife, and marker work perfectly). Many farms allow outside food and drink, as long as you clean up after yourself. Some even have picnic areas where you can relax after your activities.

Dont forget to bring a reusable bag or basket to carry your pumpkin home. Many patches charge $2$5 for a paper bag, and a $10 canvas tote is often sold as a souvenir. A simple mesh produce bag from home saves you money and reduces waste.

Use Local Library and Community Center Programs

Many Fort Worth-area public libraries partner with local farms to offer free or discounted pumpkin patch passes. The Fort Worth Public Library system, for example, has a Seasonal Pass Program where cardholders can check out a free family admission pass to one of three participating pumpkin patches each October. Passes are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so check your librarys events calendar in late August.

Similarly, community centers like the Southlake Community Center and the Keller Recreation Department occasionally host group outings with negotiated group rates. These are often open to residents only, so verify eligibility. Even if youre not a resident, ask if they accept non-resident sign-ups for a small additional feeits often still cheaper than individual tickets.

Combine Your Trip with Other Free Fall Activities

Maximize your outing by planning a full-day fall adventure that includes multiple low- or no-cost attractions. For example, after visiting The Pumpkin Patch at River Ranch, head to the nearby Fort Worth Botanic Garden, which offers free admission on Tuesdays and features a beautiful autumn foliage display. Or, visit the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, which has a free fall nature walk and pumpkin-themed scavenger hunt on weekends.

Some farms even partner with local businesses. The Great Pumpkin Patch in Grapevine collaborates with nearby bakeries to offer a Pumpkin + Pie combo: buy a pumpkin, get a slice of homemade pie for $1. Look for these cross-promotionstheyre often advertised on the farms website or social media.

Consider Volunteering or Working a Shift

Some smaller, family-run pumpkin patches in the Fort Worth suburbs offer free admission in exchange for a few hours of volunteer work. Tasks might include helping with pumpkin sorting, greeting guests, or assisting with the petting zoo. This is a great option for teens looking for community service hours or families willing to trade time for savings.

Reach out directly via email or phone to farms like Sweetwater Farm or Autumn Harvest Acres. Many are small operations and appreciate the extra hands. In return, youll get free entry, and your kids will learn valuable lessons about community and hard work.

Best Practices

Plan AheadDont Wait Until the Last Minute

The biggest mistake families make is waiting until Saturday morning to decide where to go. By then, the best deals are gone, parking is full, and prices have spiked. Set a calendar reminder for mid-August to start researching. Create a spreadsheet with each farms name, admission cost, pumpkin inclusion, hours, parking fees, and any special offers. Update it as new deals appear.

Compare Total Value, Not Just Admission Price

A $10 admission might seem cheaper than a $20 onebut if the $20 ticket includes a pumpkin, two hayrides, a maze, and a cider tasting, while the $10 ticket gets you only entry and a $10 pumpkin, the $20 option is the better deal. Always calculate the total value of whats included. A cheap ticket with add-ons can easily cost more than a premium package.

Bring Cash and Small Bills

While most pumpkin patches accept cards now, many smaller vendorslike those selling cider, baked goods, or handmade craftsstill operate on cash-only systems. Having $20$50 in small bills ensures you can make impulse purchases without fees or delays. Plus, some farms offer a 5% discount for cash payments to avoid credit card processing fees.

Check the Weather and Dress Appropriately

Fort Worth weather in October can swing from 85F to 55F in one day. Dress in layers: start with moisture-wicking shirts, add a light jacket, and wear closed-toe shoes. Avoid flip-flopsmuddy paths and uneven terrain are common. Bringing a light raincoat or umbrella can save you from having to buy overpriced ponchos at the gate.

Limit Extra Add-Ons

Its easy to get swept up in the festive atmosphere and splurge on face painting, giant slides, or photo packages. Set a spending limit for extras before you arrivesay, $15 per childand stick to it. Many of these activities are fun but not essential. Focus on the core experience: picking your pumpkin, enjoying the hayride, and making memories.

Teach Kids About Budgeting

Turn your outing into a learning opportunity. Give each child a small envelope with $5$10 for souvenirs or snacks. Let them decide how to spend it. This teaches financial responsibility and helps prevent tantrums when they cant buy everything. Many kids remember the lesson more than the trinket.

Leave No Trace

Respect the farm. Dont trample crops, leave trash behind, or take more than your allotted pumpkin. Many small farms operate on tight margins and rely on repeat visitors. Being a responsible guest ensures these places stay open for years to comeand continue offering affordable deals.

Tools and Resources

Fort Worth Family Events Calendar (fortworthfamilyevents.com)

This free, community-run website lists every pumpkin patch, fall festival, and hayride in the metro area with real-time updates on pricing, hours, and special promotions. Its updated daily by local parents and is one of the most reliable sources for last-minute deals.

Google Maps + Pumpkin Patch Near Me Search

Use Google Maps to search pumpkin patch Fort Worth and filter by Open Now and Free Admission. Many smaller farms dont have websites but are listed with user reviews that mention discounts. Look for reviews that say got in free with library pass or weekday rate was half price.

Library Pass Programs

Check the Fort Worth Public Librarys Passes for Parks program at www.fortworthlibrary.org/passes. Each October, they release a limited number of free admission passes to local farms. You can reserve one online with your library card.

Facebook Groups

Join these active local groups:

• Fort Worth Moms
• North Texas Family Fun
• Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festivals TX

Members frequently post screenshots of promo codes, share group buy opportunities, and alert others when a farm is offering a surprise discount.

Apps: Groupon, RetailMeNot, and Honey

Search these apps for Fort Worth pumpkin patch coupons. While not every farm participates, some do offer digital coupons for 1020% off. Honey automatically applies coupon codes at checkout when youre buying tickets online.

Local Radio and News Stations

Listen to KERA 90.1 FM or watch WFAA Channel 8 during morning segments. They often feature Free Friday Fun segments highlighting free or discounted fall events. Sometimes, they give away tickets on aircall in during the segment for a chance to win.

University and College Student Groups

Texas Christian University (TCU) and the University of North Texas (UNT) have student organizations that volunteer at local farms. They sometimes organize student-led pumpkin patch tours with discounted group rates. Contact their community service offices in September to inquire.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Martinez Familys $0 Pumpkin Patch Day

The Martinez family of Arlington has three children and a tight budget. In 2023, they saved $137 by following this plan:

• Checked the Fort Worth Public Librarys Passes for Parks program and checked out a free family pass to River Ranch Pumpkin Patch.
• Arrived at 9 a.m. on a Tuesday and received a free pumpkin carving kit from the Sunrise Special.
• Braced their own sandwiches, water, and carving tools.
• Used a Facebook group coupon for a free cup of cider at the farms stand.
• Volunteered for one hour helping sort pumpkins and received a free family photo session.

Total saved: $137. They had a full day of activities, took home three pumpkins, and left with no money spent.

Example 2: The Thompsons $45 Family Bundle

The Thompsons planned their October 7 visit to The Great Pumpkin Patch in Grapevine. They compared three options:

• Individual tickets: 2 adults ($18 each) + 2 kids ($12 each) = $60
• Bundle deal: Family Fun Pack (2 adults, 2 kids, 1 pumpkin each, hayride, maze, slide) = $45
• Group rate (via church group): 10% off bundle = $40.50

They chose the bundle and saved $19.50. They also brought their own snacks and used a Honey coupon to get $5 off online checkout. Total spent: $35.50. They had a full day of fun and came home with four pumpkins.

Example 3: The Lee Familys Library + Community Center Combo

The Lees live in North Richland Hills. They used their library card to get a free pass to Hickory Creek Farm. Then, they joined a community center group outing to Billy Bobs Texas Pumpkin Patch, which offered a $10 family rate (normally $40) for residents. They packed lunch, brought their own bags, and skipped all add-ons. Total spent: $10. Total saved: $90.

Example 4: The Davis Familys Volunteer Exchange

With two teenagers needing community service hours, the Davis family contacted Sweetwater Farm and agreed to help with pumpkin sorting for three hours on a Thursday. In exchange, they received free admission for four, a pumpkin each, and a free cider tasting. They brought their own tools, took photos, and left with five pumpkins and no cash spent. The teens completed their service hours and gained real-world experience.

FAQs

Are there any completely free pumpkin patches in Fort Worth?

Yes, but theyre rare and often very small. Some community gardens or church-run farms offer free pumpkin picking by donation only. Examples include the Trinity Community Garden in Arlington (a short drive from Fort Worth) and the Faith Farm in Burleson. These are typically first-come, first-served and have limited pumpkins. Call ahead to confirm availability.

Can I bring my dog to a pumpkin patch in Fort Worth?

Most pumpkin patches do not allow pets due to livestock and food safety concerns. Exceptions are rare, but some farms like Autumn Harvest Acres permit leashed dogs in designated areas. Always check the farms pet policy before bringing your dog.

Do pumpkin patches in Fort Worth accept credit cards?

Most do, especially larger ones. But many food vendors, craft stalls, and parking attendants still operate cash-only. Bring at least $20 in cash just in case.

Whats the best time of day to go to avoid crowds?

Weekday mornings (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.) are the quietest. Avoid weekends after noon, especially Saturdays and the second weekend of October. Early visits also mean better pumpkin selection and cooler temperatures.

Do I need to pay for parking?

Many pumpkin patches in Fort Worth charge $3$7 per vehicle. Some, like River Ranch, offer free parking for the first hour if you spend over $25. Others include parking in the admission price. Always read the fine print.

Can I buy pumpkins separately if admission doesnt include one?

Yes, most farms sell pumpkins separately at a rate of $3$8 each, depending on size. Some have pick your own patches where you can choose from hundreds of pumpkins for a flat fee (e.g., $10 for all you can carry).

Are there any senior or military discounts?

A few farms offer discounts for seniors (65+) or military personnel, typically $2$5 off admission. Always ask at the ticket booth. Some, like The Pumpkin Patch at Billy Bobs, display signs for these discounts; others dont advertise them but will honor them if you ask.

What if it rains on the day of my visit?

Most pumpkin patches remain open in light raintheyre outdoors by nature. Heavy rain or storms may cause closures. Check the farms social media for updates. Some offer rain checks or rescheduling options.

How early should I arrive to get the biggest pumpkins?

Arrive within the first hour of opening. The largest, most photogenic pumpkins are usually picked first. By midday, many of the best ones are gone. If youre looking for a giant pumpkin for carving, aim for 9 a.m.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?

Yes. Most pumpkin patches have paved or gravel paths and are stroller-friendly. Many also offer wheelchairs or electric scooters for rentcall ahead to reserve one if needed.

Conclusion

Enjoying a pumpkin patch in Fort Worth doesnt have to be an expensive outing. With thoughtful planning, local knowledge, and a few simple strategies, families can experience the full magic of autumnhayrides, corn mazes, giant pumpkins, and cider tastingwithout draining their bank accounts. The key is to start early, research thoroughly, and take advantage of every discount, bundle, and community resource available. Whether youre using a library pass, volunteering for free entry, bringing your own snacks, or visiting on a quiet weekday, every dollar saved is a dollar reinvested into more memories.

Remember, the goal isnt just to get the biggest pumpkinits to create moments that last. By being smart, resourceful, and community-minded, youre not only saving moneyyoure helping sustain the local farms and traditions that make Fort Worths fall season so special. So grab your checklist, pack your bag, and head out to enjoy the harvest. Your walletand your familywill thank you.