Let’s be honest — fall is really just a celebration of that great orange gourd: the pumpkin. A trip to the pumpkin patch is on everyone’s fall bucket list, but Kansas City is actually a pumpkin lover’s playground, bursting with ways to enjoy this amazing, edible, carve-able, craft-able fruit.
So grab a sweater and a pumpkin spice latte — let’s dig into all things pumpkin in Kansas City this fall!
In the City
Pumpkin adventures in Kansas City are practically endless this time of year. Here are a few highlights you won’t want to miss:
Want to see a good old-fashioned pumpkin smash? Head to Lenexa on October 18 for Truck or Treat, a city event where construction equipment crushes pumpkins to smithereens — every kid’s dream! Little ones can also climb inside the big trucks and collect candy at each stop. This event is a guaranteed hit with everyone from toddlers to big kids.
KC Parent Pro Tip: This event is packed, and parking often runs out. Get there early to snag a spot and beat the crowd.
The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is pumpkin central this fall. The fourth annual GloWild event returns with a new theme: Time Traveler. Each year, the zoo is decked out in magical, seasonal lanterns along a mile-long walking route. This year, the fun includes a jack-o’-lantern hayride through glowing fall-themed displays, as well as pumpkin decorating at World Gate Station. And don’t forget Boo at the Zoo — a safe trick-or-treating experience where kiddos can show off their costumes while exploring the zoo.
Cue the classic pumpkin patch experience! It’s not really fall until you’ve sipped Old-Fashioned Apple Cider and munched a fresh-made donut from Louisburg Cider Mill, or pulled on your favorite flannel and gotten lost in the corn maze at Johnson Farms. Don’t forget about playing in Corn Cob Beach at KC Pumpkin Patch’s Fall Festival, or taking a wagon ride out to the fields at Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch to find the perfect pick! And for a picture-perfect day trip, head to Pome on the Range, where you can pick apples, wander the corn maze and enjoy cider donuts, wine and pies.
KC Parent Pro Tip: For all the best patches, check out the KC Parent Pumpkin Patch Guide!
Ready to switch things up from the usual hayride? Try a train ride to the pumpkin patch instead! The Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad’s Pumpkin Patch Express offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Board a train and ride the authentic track built in 1886 for a scenic trip through the countryside, then hop off at the pumpkin patch. There, kids can pick a pumpkin, collect candy and show off their Halloween best in a costume contest. It’s an unforgettable mix of history, adventure and fall fun!
The Fun Doesn’t End at the Patch
Now that you’ve brought home the perfect pumpkin, the real fun begins! Here are some easy, festive ways to enjoy your pumpkins long after the patch:
Pumpkin Bath — If you have a baby or toddler, this is a must. Pop your little one in the bath, hand her some sponges and scrubbies, and let her “wash” the pumpkin. It’s a sensory play dream — and as a bonus, you’ll end up with squeaky-clean pumpkins ready to carve or paint. Plus, it’s ridiculously adorable.
Pumpkin Carving — Our family loves turning this into a full-blown fall party. Pop some popcorn, pour your favorite drink and carve the best jack-o’-lantern you can. Want to up the fun? Make it a family contest and vote on the winner!
Pumpkin Painting — Total game-changer for toddlers. For the pumpkins that are too small (or too tough) to carve, hand over the paint and let the little ones create their masterpiece while the big kids and grown-ups get to carving.
Pumpkin Seed Roasting — Don’t toss those seeds after carving! Rinse them in a colander, pat them dry and heat the oven to 300 degrees. Toss with olive oil and season with salt, paprika or even cinnamon. Bake for 20-30 minutes, let them cool and snack away!
KC Parent Pro Tip: Speaking of spices, now is the time to stock your spice cabinet with the flavors of fall. Every good spice rack includes cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, allspice and cardamom this time of year.
Pumpkin Stickers — Busy-mom win! Grab a sticker kit and let the kids create a pumpkin unicorn, kitty cat, mummy or monster — no mess, no cleanup and done in an afternoon.
Pumpkin Treats Around KC
Pumpkins aren’t just great for decorating your front porch this fall — they bring a flavor and aroma that can’t be beat! Whether you’re craving something creamy, sweet or spiced just right, Kansas City has no shortage of delicious pumpkin-themed treats to try this season:
- Pumpkin Pie Fudge at Chip’s Chocolate Factory — Watch as the staff whips up fudge right before your eyes — you might even score a free sample before you buy!
- Pumpkin Cheesecake or Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake at The Cheesecake Factory — It’s hard to resist this seasonal twist on a world-famous dessert. Cheesecake perfection!
- Tippin’s Pumpkin Pie — A Kansas City tradition for over 30 years, Tippin’s pies are available at your local Price Chopper or Hen House Market. Add one to your cart — you won’t regret it.
- Pumpkin Pie Homemade Ice Cream at Sylas and Maddy’s — You truly can’t go wrong with any flavor here, but the pumpkin pie ice cream is a fall favorite worth making a trip for.
- Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream at Culver’s — Try all three varieties: Pumpkin Spice Shake, Pumpkin Pecan Custard and Salted Caramel Concrete Mixer. Yes, all three. No judgment.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte — This fall classic is available at just about any coffee shop, but if you’re on the go, swing by Scooter’s, Starbucks or Dunkin’ for an easy drive-thru fix.
KC Parent Pro Tip: Pumpkin treats aren’t just available from businesses. Some of our favorite family recipes feature this versatile flavor! Every autumn I enjoy baking pumpkin chocolate chip bread, pumpkin pie or a cream cheese pumpkin roll.
From smashing pumpkins at local events to cozying up with a pumpkin spice latte, carving with the kids and savoring sweet fall treats, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate pumpkin everything in Kansas City.