Taking my kids to places I loved from my childhood is bittersweet. I get to share my memories with them, tell stories and create new ones. Shaw Farms is one of those special places and holds so much history itself.
I love how this farm has been family-owned and operated since the 1900’s – and today, they have added tons of excitement from their well-known pumpkin display, unique fall- and cartoon-themed playgrounds, and throughout October they have their annual Pumpkin Times festival with hayrides, horse-drawn carriages, farm animals, corn mazes, sweet treats, barrel rides and so much more! Groups and school-aged kids come for educational field trips, too.
We were immediately drawn to the horses – they were some of the largest Belgium Draft horses I have ever laid eyes on. The carriage driver went on to tell us all about these two beauties during the ride. Their names were Vinnie and Sam, weighing about 2000 pounds each! He turned to look behind us at the tractor ride following not that far behind (another option if you want to go to the pumpkin patch).
“That tractor has about 45 horse power,” he said, “and we have … two!”
He laughed as we continued on, passing by the spooky witches corner, big foot and more festive surprises along the way. After our fun and entertaining journey was complete, the kids couldn’t wait to pet Vinnie and Sam, which they allow you to do so after the ride is over.
Next up was the socially-distanced play area where we found a Disney-themed play structure and never-ending pretend play. The kids couldn’t get enough of it! As soon as my 9-year-old, Will, saw the peddle cars, he was off. He was determined to zoom around his six laps in record time. Surprisingly, they were able to adjust the seat so my 4-year-old, Eva, could reach the pedals. When they sanitized the peddle car before the kids took it for a spin, I was one happy mama. In fact, there were sanitizing stations throughout the ginormous farm. With the farm being so large, it was very easy to stay socially distanced.
As Eva and her dad went to the pet the farm animals, Will and I went through the rope maze. Finally, we wrapped it up at the pirate ship play area, grabbed some tasty apple cider and treats then walked through the large pumpkin display. (Note: Be sure to stop by the barn and grab a pumpkin roll on your way out. But quick, due to their deliciousness, they sell out fast!)
Shaw Farms is the perfect socially distanced fall fest activity. Better yet, they offer free admission, and you can purchase your activity choice online in advance – corn maze and hayrides separately or as a bundle, and the horse-drawn carriage and other select activities cost extra, too.
Take advantage of the fall fun daily through October 31. Shaw Farms is located at 1737 Ohio 131, Milford, Oh. Learn more and find great deals and discounts at shawfarmmarket.com.